Highlighting the Hotsheet: 2nd Quarter Cargo Theft Update

Highlighting the Hotsheet: 2nd Quarter Cargo Theft Update

The second quarter statistics on cargo theft in 2014 (Q2-14) are in from the Supply Chain- Information Sharing and Analysis Center (SC-ISAC).  For those unfamiliar, SC-ISAC is a liaison for information sharing between Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the nation’s supply chain. DHS identified Transportation Systems as one of sixteen critical infrastructures to the nation’s supply chain, and cargo theft as a constant threat to stability.

Turnaround

A decrease in reported cargo theft continues! While SC-ISAC’s 140 reported incidents this quarter are up from the first, the sum total is materially down from the 194 reported Q2 of 2013.  Freightwatch numbers for the same quarter are higher at 185 incidents, but still represent a slight dip from 2013. (Note: Some companies report to both SC-ISAC and Freightwatch; some only one or the other; others report to neither.)

Which States?

Texas continues, unfortunately, to lead the nation in cargo thefts for the third quarter in a row. California, Georgia, Illinois, Florida and NJ continue their normally high levels of activity.

For the first time, SC-ISAC includes a breakdown of cities known to be hot spots, in this quarter Dallas, the LA Basin, Atlanta, Chicago and Miami.

Highlighting the Hotsheet: 2nd Quarter Cargo Theft Update 

Where?

Truck stops and yards continue to lead the rankings with yards taking the top spot in the second quarter.  Freightwatch’s analysis delved even further into this issue and produced an alarming statistic: Facility burglary increased in this quarter by 100% as compared to the second quarter of 2013, and 67% as compared to the first quarter this year.

When?

Cargo theft consistently spikes over weekends. This quarter, 63% of all cargo theft occurred over the weekend, down slightly from the 73% reported in 1st Qtr. Still, it’s overwhelmingly clear that weekends are when cargo is at its greatest risk.

Highlighting the Hotsheet: 2nd Quarter Cargo Theft Update 

What Are They Stealing?

For the first time in recent reporting, food was not only eliminated as the number one target. Food actually dropped out of the top 5 most targeted products altogether. Consumer electronics took the number one spot, and that number will likely rise again in Q3 as stores stock up for the holiday season.

Looking deeper into the specific commodities stolen, construction materials, such as shingles and lumber, took the number one spot on specific items stolen. This is to be expected in the spring months.

Highlighting the Hotsheet: 2nd Quarter Cargo Theft Update 

How Much Is It Worth?

At an average per load value of $15,000, SC ISAC estimates the 2nd Qtr. losses to be worth $22 million. Freightwatch value per load is much higher, at $174,000, which is more consistent with the historical quarterly average.

New Trends in Theft:

SC-ISAC has recently shared information regarding new trends:

  • Bobtail bandits: With increasing frequency, thieves are stealing bobtailed (uncoupled) tractors from freight yards and immediately driving them to truck stops and drop lots near the interstate.  The thieves circle around, in search of a loaded and unattended trailer, knowing that a loaded, uncoupled trailer in this location is less likely to have hidden GPS tracking devices. Having identified a target, the thieves are able to hook up the trailer and drive away with the cargo.
  • Fictitious Pickups: Deceptive pickups continue to rise – Freightwatch uses the term “surge” -- in terms of frequency and success.  Several cases now include thieves stealing the identity of an existing trucking firm to better mask their efforts.

Predictions & Recommendations:

We predict Q3 will present a major spike in cargo theft, as it traditionally does.  Labor Day is always the starting gun for an average 61% increase in cargo theft, because stores start stocking up for Black Friday.

Starting right now, this is high season for thieves.  We strongly recommend freight and logistics companies that have security challenges review all protocols and contact security companies for assistance where they’ve detected weaknesses.

For a primer on cargo theft, SC-ISAC, and the regional cargo theft councils check out J.J. Coughlin’s book, Cargo Crime. JJ does a great job explaining how cargo theft affects the industry as a whole, the structure of the industry and what can be done to fight cargo theft.

Be safe, be vigilant.

**(Electric Guard Dog is proud to be a sponsor of the SC-ISAC database and active in regional cargo theft councils.)

About the Author

Jack DeMao is the CEO and president of Electric Guard Dog.

Featured

  • AI to Help Resolve Non-Emergency Calls Across Utah and Decrease 911 Caller Wait Times

    The Utah Communications Authority (UCA), which oversees the state’s next generation 911 technology services, recently announced that public safety answering points (PSAPs) throughout the state plan to implement Motorola Solutions’ Virtual Response technology to automate the receipt and resolution of 10-digit non-emergency line calls in Utah with the help of AI. Read Now

  • Report Reveals Local Governments Face Surge in Ransomware Attacks with Minimal Resources

    KnowBe4, the cybersecurity platform that comprehensively addresses human risk management, recently released new research highlighting the critical cybersecurity challenges facing state, local, tribal, and territorial (SLTT) governments. The report details how government organizations have become prime targets for cybercriminals while simultaneously facing severe resource constraints. Read Now

  • Video Surveillance Trends to Watch

    With more organizations adding newer capabilities to their surveillance systems, it’s always important to remember the “basics” of system configuration and deployment, as well as the topline benefits of continually emerging technologies like AI and the cloud. Read Now

  • New Report Reveals Top Trends Transforming Access Controller Technology

    Mercury Security, a provider in access control hardware and open platform solutions, has published its Trends in Access Controllers Report, based on a survey of over 450 security professionals across North America and Europe. The findings highlight the controller’s vital role in a physical access control system (PACS), where the device not only enforces access policies but also connects with readers to verify user credentials—ranging from ID badges to biometrics and mobile identities. With 72% of respondents identifying the controller as a critical or important factor in PACS design, the report underscores how the choice of controller platform has become a strategic decision for today’s security leaders. Read Now

  • Overwhelming Majority of CISOs Anticipate Surge in Cyber Attacks Over the Next Three Years

    An overwhelming 98% of chief information security officers (CISOs) expect a surge in cyber attacks over the next three years as organizations face an increasingly complex and artificial intelligence (AI)-driven digital threat landscape. This is according to new research conducted among 300 CISOs, chief information officers (CIOs), and senior IT professionals by CSC1, the leading provider of enterprise-class domain and domain name system (DNS) security. Read Now

New Products

  • Compact IP Video Intercom

    Viking’s X-205 Series of intercoms provide HD IP video and two-way voice communication - all wrapped up in an attractive compact chassis.

  • 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.

  • Mobile Safe Shield

    Mobile Safe Shield

    SafeWood Designs, Inc., a manufacturer of patented bullet resistant products, is excited to announce the launch of the Mobile Safe Shield. The Mobile Safe Shield is a moveable bullet resistant shield that provides protection in the event of an assailant and supplies cover in the event of an active shooter. With a heavy-duty steel frame, quality castor wheels, and bullet resistant core, the Mobile Safe Shield is a perfect addition to any guard station, security desks, courthouses, police stations, schools, office spaces and more. The Mobile Safe Shield is incredibly customizable. Bullet resistant materials are available in UL 752 Levels 1 through 8 and include glass, white board, tack board, veneer, and plastic laminate. Flexibility in bullet resistant materials allows for the Mobile Safe Shield to blend more with current interior décor for a seamless design aesthetic. Optional custom paint colors are also available for the steel frame.