Surge in Cyber-Enabled Cargo Theft Targeting Trucking and Logistics

Recent research by Proofpoint has highlighted a significant rise in cyber-enabled cargo theft, particularly targeting trucking and logistics companies. Cybercriminals are employing sophisticated attack chains that leverage Remote Monitoring and Management (RMM) tools to infiltrate these organizations, facilitating the theft of valuable cargo shipments. This criminal enterprise is estimated to result in annual losses of approximately $34 billion in the United States alone, with projections indicating a 22% increase in losses for 2025.

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The attack process typically begins with the compromise of load boards—online platforms where freight brokers post available shipments. Cybercriminals post fraudulent listings using stolen accounts and subsequently send emails containing malicious links to carriers who express interest. This method exploits the inherent trust and urgency in freight negotiations. Additionally, attackers hijack existing email threads to inject malicious content and conduct direct email campaigns targeting larger logistics entities, including freight brokerage firms and asset-based carriers.

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Once a carrier engages with a fraudulent load posting, the attackers deploy RMM tools such as ScreenConnect, SimpleHelp, PDQ Connect, Fleetdeck, N-able, and LogMeIn Resolve. These tools allow the criminals to gain full control over the compromised systems, enabling them to manipulate bookings, block notifications, and even communicate with brokers as if they were legitimate operators.

Cybercriminals Exploit RMM Tools to Target Trucking Firms and Hijack Freight

Proofpoint has documented nearly two dozen campaigns since August 2025, indicating a growing trend in cyber-enabled cargo theft. The threat actors appear opportunistic, targeting a wide range of organizations from small family-owned businesses to large transport firms. The use of RMM tools provides significant advantages, as these legitimate software packages often evade detection by traditional security measures, allowing attackers to operate with relative impunity.

Threat Actors Leverage RMM Tools to Hack Trucking Companies and Steal Cargo Freight

The implications of these cybercrimes extend beyond financial losses; they disrupt supply chains and compromise operational resilience across the logistics sector. The National Insurance Crime Bureau has reported a 27% increase in cargo theft losses in 2024, underscoring the urgency for enhanced cybersecurity measures within the industry.

Cybercriminals Exploit RMM Tools to Target Trucking Firms and Hijack Freight

Proofpoint researchers assert that organized crime groups are likely involved in these cyber-enabled thefts, stating, “Based on our ongoing investigations paired with open-source information, Proofpoint assesses with high confidence that the threat actors are working with organized crime groups.” They recommend that organizations implement strict controls over RMM tool installations, enhance network detection capabilities, and train employees to recognize and report suspicious activities.

Proofpoint flags cyber-enabled cargo theft surge, as hackers exploit RMM tools across trucking and logistics sector

Despite the growing awareness of cyber-enabled cargo theft, some experts argue that the logistics industry has been slow to adapt to these emerging threats. Critics emphasize the need for a more proactive approach to cybersecurity, particularly as the digitization of supply chains continues to create vulnerabilities that criminals can exploit.

Cybercriminals Exploit RMM Tools to Target Trucking Firms and Hijack Freight

As cybercriminals increasingly target the logistics sector, organizations must remain vigilant and adapt their cybersecurity strategies to counteract these evolving threats. Enhanced training for employees, stricter controls on software installations, and improved network monitoring will be crucial in mitigating the risks associated with cyber-enabled cargo theft. The trend suggests that without significant intervention, the frequency and sophistication of these attacks will likely continue to rise.

Cybercriminals Exploit RMM Tools to Target Trucking Firms and Hijack Freight