In a developing story, France’s counterespionage agency has opened an investigation into a suspected cyber-attack plot aimed at an international passenger ferry. The probe follows the arrest of a Latvian crew member who faces charges for acting on behalf of an unnamed foreign power.
Investigation Overview
French authorities say the investigation centers on a ferry docked in the Mediterranean port of Sète, though the vessel’s name has not been released. Italian intelligence had warned that software commonly used by cybercriminals might have infected the ferry’s computer systems, a tip that was passed to France’s General Directorate of Internal Security.
Suspected Russian Involvement
Interior Minister Laurent Nunez hinted that the interference could come from Russia, saying, “At the moment, foreign interference very often comes from same country.” He added that France and its European allies of Ukraine accuse Russia of waging “hybrid warfare” through sabotage, assassinations, cyberattacks, disinformation and other hostile acts that are hard to trace back to Moscow.
Technical Details
The software in question is a Remote Access Trojan (RAT), which would allow attackers to control computer systems remotely. Prosecutors said the RAT could have been used to seize control of the ferry’s computers, but they did not name the vessel.
Statements from Interior Minister
On France Info, Nunez described the case as “a very serious affair.” When asked whether the suspected goal was to hijack the ship, he replied, “We don’t know.” He further noted that investigators are “following a trail of interference … foreign interference.”
Arrests and Charges
Police arrested two of the ferry’s crew members on Friday. One was Latvian and the other Bulgarian, both identified by Italian authorities as suspects. The Bulgarian was released without charge after questioning. The Latvian national is being held on a preliminary criminal conspiracy charge and two preliminary hacking-related offenses, all aimed at serving an unnamed foreign power, according to the prosecutor’s office.
Search Raids in Latvia
Search raids were also carried out in Latvia. Latvian state police said they had no comment on the operation.
Ferry Back in Operation
After security checks to its computer system, the ferry has returned to service and is once again sailing.
Key Takeaways
- French counterespionage agency investigates a cyber-attack plot on a Mediterranean ferry.
- A Latvian crew member is charged for acting on behalf of an unnamed foreign power.
- Interior Minister Laurent Nunez pointed to Russia as a likely source of the interference.
The investigation remains ongoing as French and Italian authorities work to uncover the full extent of the alleged cyber-plot and its possible links to Russian interference.
