This threat involves cybercriminal groups targeting trucking and logistics companies to facilitate cargo theft through sophisticated cyberattack chains. The attackers initially compromise victim organizations by delivering remote monitoring and management (RMM) tools such as ScreenConnect, SimpleHelp, PDQ Connect, LogMeIn Resolve, and others as first-stage payloads. These tools provide attackers with persistent, full remote control over compromised systems, enabling them to manipulate shipment bids and logistics operations. Attack vectors include phishing campaigns, email thread hijacking, and compromising load boards—platforms used to post and bid on freight shipments. By gaining access to internal systems, attackers can place fraudulent bids on cargo shipments, redirect or steal the physical freight, and subsequently sell it on illicit markets. This cyber-enabled theft leverages digital transformation trends in logistics, where increased reliance on remote access and digital platforms has expanded the attack surface. The campaigns have been active since mid-2025, with nearly two dozen observed in the last two months, indicating an escalation. The attackers employ a combination of social engineering, supply chain exploitation, and advanced remote access tools to maintain stealth and persistence. While no known public exploits exist for specific vulnerabilities, the threat relies heavily on user interaction and social engineering to deploy RMM tools. The medium severity rating reflects the significant financial and operational impact on affected companies, though the attack requires targeted access and some level of user involvement.

For European organizations, particularly those involved in trucking, freight forwarding, and logistics, this threat poses a substantial risk to both operational continuity and financial assets. The theft of cargo not only results in direct financial losses from stolen goods but also disrupts supply chains critical to European economies. Such disruptions can cascade, affecting manufacturing, retail, and other sectors dependent on timely freight delivery. Additionally, compromised systems may lead to data breaches involving sensitive shipment and customer information, impacting confidentiality and potentially leading to regulatory penalties under GDPR. The use of legitimate RMM tools complicates detection and response, increasing dwell time for attackers and the likelihood of successful cargo theft. The reputational damage from such incidents can be severe, undermining trust in logistics providers. Given Europe's strategic position in global trade and the high volume of freight movement, these attacks could have broader economic implications if left unmitigated.

European logistics companies should implement a multi-layered defense strategy tailored to this threat. First, restrict and monitor the use of RMM tools by enforcing strict access controls, multi-factor authentication (MFA), and network segmentation to limit lateral movement. Employ application allowlisting and endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions to detect unauthorized RMM deployments. Enhance email security by deploying advanced phishing detection, DMARC, DKIM, and SPF to prevent email thread hijacking and phishing attacks. Monitor load board activity for anomalous bidding patterns indicative of fraudulent behavior. Conduct regular security awareness training focused on social engineering risks specific to logistics operations. Implement robust incident response plans that include rapid isolation of compromised systems and forensic analysis. Collaborate with industry partners and law enforcement to share threat intelligence and coordinate responses. Finally, ensure timely patching of all software and firmware, even though no specific exploits are known, to reduce overall attack surface.