Protecting Your Cargo: Federal Warning on Cargo Theft Scheme

 

Cargo theft continues to be a persistent threat in the trucking industry, with criminals devising sophisticated schemes to intercept and steal valuable goods in transit.  A recent warning from federal authorities sheds light on a concerning cargo theft scheme, emphasizing the importance of vigilance and proactive measures to safeguard valuable cargo.  

According to a recent article from Land Line Media, federal authorities have issued a warning to carriers about a cargo theft scheme targeting high-value shipments of electronics and other goods.  The scheme, which they refer to as “social engineering,” involves deceiving an individual or individuals into divulging information that is then used to steal/seize cargo.  The FBI has broken this scheme into three categories:  insider threat, third party and Good Samaritan.

Insider threats remain a large threat to the supply chain as thieves are working with employees within the company to gather shipment information including routes, locations, product info, etc. 

Third party consists of reaching out to a third-party transportation service for aid in case of account lockouts.  After the perpetrators obtain entry into a carrier’s account, they proceed to modify the account’s contact information, substituting it with a phone number and email address under their control. 

In the Good Samaritan variant of the scheme, perpetrators surveil driver databases to acquire details about shipments.  “The criminals reach out to a carrier, claiming to have a nearby driver available to collect the shipment.  They persuade the carrier's administrator to disclose the shipper's pick-up number to them, allowing the criminals to abscond with the load,” stated the FBI.

The federal warning underscores the severity of the threat posed by cargo theft and the potential consequences for trucking companies.  As the Office of Private Sector notes, between Nov. 2022 and July 2023, the industry seen a fraud and fictitious pickup increase of 503% year-over-year.   

To mitigate the risks of cargo theft and protect valuable goods in transit, trucking companies can implement the following strategies:

1.     Verify Carrier Credentials: Before engaging with carriers or freight brokers, conduct thorough due diligence to verify their credentials, licenses, and insurance coverage.  Be wary of unsolicited offers or requests for sensitive information, and always confirm the legitimacy of the carrier or broker before agreeing to transport goods.

2.     Enhance Security Measures: Invest in advanced security systems, surveillance cameras, and tracking technology to monitor shipments in real-time and deter thieves.  Implement strict access controls, tamper-evident seals, and secure parking facilities to minimize the risk of theft during transit stops and overnight stays.

3.     Train Employees: Provide drivers and staff with comprehensive training on security protocols, risk awareness, and emergency response procedures.  Educate employees about common tactics used by cargo thieves and empower them to identify and report suspicious activity during transit.

4.     Collaborate with Law Enforcement: Build partnerships with law enforcement agencies, industry associations, and other stakeholders to share information, intelligence, and best practices for combating cargo theft.  Report theft incidents promptly and cooperate with authorities to recover stolen goods and apprehend perpetrators.

The federal warning on the cargo theft scheme serves as a sobering reminder of the ongoing threats and challenges faced by trucking companies in safeguarding valuable cargo.  By remaining vigilant, implementing robust security measures, and fostering collaboration with law enforcement and industry partners, trucking companies can mitigate the risks of cargo theft and protect the integrity of the supply chain.  As the trucking industry continues to evolve, proactive measures and collective efforts will be essential in ensuring the safe and secure transportation of goods across the country.

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