- Latvian Crew Member Held on Hacking Charges.
- Authorities Probe Suspected Foreign Power Link.
- Cyber Intrusion Detected on Ferry Systems.
A crew member from Latvia has been taken into custody in France, facing charges of acting on behalf of an unidentified foreign power, according to French officials. Another crew member, a Bulgarian national, was questioned and later released without any charges, reports AP News.
Russia Implicitly Suspected
Interior Minister Laurent Nunez appeared to suggest Russia could be involved, stating: “At the moment, foreign interference very often comes from the same country.” France and other European allies of Ukraine have accused Russia of conducting “hybrid warfare” through sabotage, cyberattacks, disinformation and other covert actions.
Intelligence Tip-Off and Cyber Concerns
Italian intelligence tipped off France’s General Directorate of Internal Security about some suspicious activity linked to software found on the computer systems of a ferry docked at the Mediterranean port of Sète, as reported by the Paris prosecutor’s office.
Use of Remote Access Software
Investigators suspect that the systems might have been compromised with RAT software, which is often used by cybercriminals to gain remote control over computers. Prosecutors mentioned that this software “could have been used to take control” of the systems onboard. The ferry itself has not been named.
Official Statements
Nunez told public broadcaster France Info that “individuals tried to gain access to a ship’s data-processing system.” He described the case as “a very serious affair.” Asked whether the suspected aim was to hijack the vessel, he said: “We don’t know.” He added: “The investigators appear to be following a trail of interference … foreign interference.”
Ongoing Investigation
The Latvian national is currently facing preliminary charges of criminal conspiracy along with two hacking-related charges, allegedly committed to benefit an unnamed foreign power. Search operations were also carried out in Latvia, but the state police there have chosen not to comment.
Ferry Returns to Service
After undergoing security checks on its computer systems, the ferry has resumed normal operations, according to the prosecutor’s office.
Did you subscribe to our daily Newsletter?
It’s Free Click here to Subscribe!
Source: AP News
