Cyber Incident Disrupts LNG Tanker Transporting US Gas to Europe

• •The Vivit Africa LNG tanker reported a suspected cyberattack after losing access to control systems.
• •This incident is the third cyber-related disruption of tankers in a month, raising concerns about maritime cybersecurity.
• •US officials are actively monitoring multiple vessels worldwide for potential cyber threats.

The Vivit Africa LNG tanker, carrying liquefied natural gas from the US to Italy, experienced a systems failure reported as a suspected cyberattack. The crew lost access to internal control systems while sailing through the Mediterranean in early September. After idling off the Italian coast without discharging its cargo, the vessel redirected towards Algeciras, Spain. The incident has been reported to Korean Register, the technical adviser for the ship, and investigations are ongoing. This incident marks the third such occurrence involving tankers in the past month, following similar incidents off the US coast. The Italian Coast Guard provided assistance but could not determine the cause of the malfunction. The ship is equipped with technology from Kongsberg Maritime, which is also investigating the reports. US authorities are monitoring nearly 20 ships globally for similar threats.