US Investigates Cyberattacks on Two Oil Tankers Bound for Texas

The United States Coast Guard and the Federal Bureau of Investigation are investigating suspected cyberattacks against two foreign-flagged tankers carrying oil and liquefied natural gas bound for American shores. The vessels were targeted while transiting the Strait of Gibraltar in August, with one vessel, the VL Prosperity, reportedly losing communications for over 30 hours.

In response, specialized teams of law enforcement and cyber protection officers boarded the tankers in the Gulf of Mexico on August 21 and August 24. These inspections aimed to ensure the integrity of the vessels' operational and information technology systems after indications that foreign cyber actors had compromised the networks. The VL Prosperity is currently positioned near Galveston, Texas.

U.S. officials are investigating whether the Government of Iran, Russia, or China executed the attacks to disrupt maritime chokepoints or target U.S. ports. The incidents occur amid a seven-month war with Iran and ongoing efforts by Tehran and its proxies to control strategic waterways. A joint statement from the investigating agencies confirmed there are currently no reports of operational disruptions, vessel instability, physical danger to crews, or environmental impacts.