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

  • ESX 2025 Announces Expanded Schedule of Events

    ESX has announced its dynamic 2025 schedule, set to provide an unparalleled experience for professionals in the electronic security and life safety industry. Taking place June 16-19 at the Cobb Galleria Centre, this year’s event features an expanded lineup of educational sessions, hands-on workshops, inspiring main stage speakers, networking opportunities, and an engaging expo floor showcasing the latest technology. Read Now

  • City of New Orleans Launches NOLA Ready Public Safety App Before Super Bowl

    The City of New Orleans Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness (NOHSEP) is pleased to announce the official launch of the NOLA Ready Public Safety App, powered by Motorola Solutions. This new mobile application is designed to enhance public safety and emergency preparedness for both residents and visitors. All individuals planning to attend major events in New Orleans, including the Super Bowl, Mardi Gras, and other large gatherings, are encouraged to download the app. Read Now

  • 5 Tips to Improve Your Password Security

    Change Your Password Day is right around the corner. Observed every year on February 1, the day aims to raise awareness about cybersecurity and underscores the importance of keeping passwords strong and up to date. Read Now

  • Enhancing Port Security

    DP World Yarimca, one of the largest container terminals of the Gulf of İzmit and Turkey, is a strong proponent of using industry-leading technology to deliver unrivaled value to its customers and partners. As the port is growing, DP World Yarimca needs to continue to provide uninterrupted operations and a high level of security.To address these challenges, DP World Yarimca has embraced innovative technological products, including FLIR's comprehensive portfolio of security monitoring solutions. Read Now

Most   Popular

New Products

  • Hanwha QNO-7012R

    Hanwha QNO-7012R

    The Q Series cameras are equipped with an Open Platform chipset for easy and seamless integration with third-party systems and solutions, and analog video output (CVBS) support for easy camera positioning during installation. A suite of on-board intelligent video analytics covers tampering, directional/virtual line detection, defocus detection, enter/exit, and motion detection.

  • A8V MIND

    A8V MIND

    Hexagon’s Geosystems presents a portable version of its Accur8vision detection system. A rugged all-in-one solution, the A8V MIND (Mobile Intrusion Detection) is designed to provide flexible protection of critical outdoor infrastructure and objects. Hexagon’s Accur8vision is a volumetric detection system that employs LiDAR technology to safeguard entire areas. Whenever it detects movement in a specified zone, it automatically differentiates a threat from a nonthreat, and immediately notifies security staff if necessary. Person detection is carried out within a radius of 80 meters from this device. Connected remotely via a portable computer device, it enables remote surveillance and does not depend on security staff patrolling the area.

  • 4K Video Decoder

    3xLOGIC’s VH-DECODER-4K is perfect for use in organizations of all sizes in diverse vertical sectors such as retail, leisure and hospitality, education and commercial premises.