One of the largest pipeline systems for refined oil products in the US, the Colonial Pipeline, was forced to shut down operations due to a ransomware attack, highlighting the vulnerability of critical energy infrastructure to cyber threats. The pipeline, extending 5,500 miles and delivering 45% of the East Coast's fuel supply, was proactively closed by the operator to contain the breach after disruptions were noted. This action was taken amid fears that hackers could target more vulnerable parts of the infrastructure. The incident, under investigation by the FBI, the Energy Department, and the White House, was attributed to a criminal group, underscoring the complex landscape of cyber threats where such groups can have connections with foreign intelligence, posing risks to national security and the energy supply chain.
Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2021/05/08/us/politics/cyberattack-colonial-pipeline.html
"id": "col711050624",
"linkid": "colonial-pipeline-company",
"type": "Cyber Attack",
"date": "05/2021",
"severity": "100",
"impact": "5",
"explanation": "Attack threatening the organization’s existence"