Colonial Pipeline Will Probably Not Have to Pay Ransom to Hackers

After a ransomware attack shut down Colonial Pipeline and caused fuel shortages and panic buying on the East Coast, the company will probably not have to pay the hackers. That’s according to CNN.

The report says that the company has worked with US officials and retrieved the most important stolen data. And early action from the company could help it restore operations without paying the hacking group called DarkSide millions in cryptocurrency.

After the attack late last week, the company shut down all operations. It transports more than 100 million gallons of gasoline and other fuel from Houston to New York daily.

Since the attack, gas prices have risen and a number of gas stations on the East Coast have shut down due to lack if gas. There has also been panic buying.

Late Wednesday, the company said it restarted its pipeline operations but it may take a few days for it to return to normal.

The attack is the latest high-profile use of ransomware, which continues to be a substantial cybersecurity issue for companies of all sizes.

About the Author

Brent Dirks is senior editor for Security Today and Campus Security Today magazines.

Featured

Most   Popular

Featured Cybersecurity

Webinars

New Products

  • HD2055 Modular Barricade

    Delta Scientific’s electric HD2055 modular shallow foundation barricade is tested to ASTM M50/P1 with negative penetration from the vehicle upon impact. With a shallow foundation of only 24 inches, the HD2055 can be installed without worrying about buried power lines and other below grade obstructions. The modular make-up of the barrier also allows you to cover wider roadways by adding additional modules to the system. The HD2055 boasts an Emergency Fast Operation of 1.5 seconds giving the guard ample time to deploy under a high threat situation. 3

  • PE80 Series

    PE80 Series by SARGENT / ED4000/PED5000 Series by Corbin Russwin

    ASSA ABLOY, a global leader in access solutions, has announced the launch of two next generation exit devices from long-standing leaders in the premium exit device market: the PE80 Series by SARGENT and the PED4000/PED5000 Series by Corbin Russwin. These new exit devices boast industry-first features that are specifically designed to provide enhanced safety, security and convenience, setting new standards for exit solutions. The SARGENT PE80 and Corbin Russwin PED4000/PED5000 Series exit devices are engineered to meet the ever-evolving needs of modern buildings. Featuring the high strength, security and durability that ASSA ABLOY is known for, the new exit devices deliver several innovative, industry-first features in addition to elegant design finishes for every opening. 3

  • ResponderLink

    ResponderLink

    Shooter Detection Systems (SDS), an Alarm.com company and a global leader in gunshot detection solutions, has introduced ResponderLink, a groundbreaking new 911 notification service for gunshot events. ResponderLink completes the circle from detection to 911 notification to first responder awareness, giving law enforcement enhanced situational intelligence they urgently need to save lives. Integrating SDS’s proven gunshot detection system with Noonlight’s SendPolice platform, ResponderLink is the first solution to automatically deliver real-time gunshot detection data to 911 call centers and first responders. When shots are detected, the 911 dispatching center, also known as the Public Safety Answering Point or PSAP, is contacted based on the gunfire location, enabling faster initiation of life-saving emergency protocols. 3