Investigate malware attack on ferry in France for foreign interference

France is investigating a supposed **malware** attack that affected a ferry in the country. A Latvian citizen was arrested on suspicion of installing malicious software, **allegedly on behalf of a foreign power**. Authorities became aware of the situation after the company Grandi Navi Veloci reported the incident.

The Latvian, contracted to work on the ferry **Fantastic**, installed a **remote access trojan** on the ship's computers during its stop at the port of Sète, in the Mediterranean. After identifying the malicious program, the company alerted local authorities to investigate the occurrence.

How did the attack work?

According to the French Directorate General for Internal Security (DGSI), the **malware** infected the ferry's systems, allowing an attacker to have **full access** to control the vehicle remotely. This vulnerability potentially allowed those responsible to take command of the ship.

• The company Grandi Navi Veloci stated that it neutralized the threat but did not disclose which systems were affected.
• Items belonging to the detainee were seized and are being analyzed by the French counter-espionage agency.
• A Bulgarian crew member was also interrogated but released afterwards.

The detainee could face charges for **conspiracy** for manipulating computer systems on behalf of a foreign power. Further investigations are being conducted in Latvia in connection with the case.

Possible involvement of a foreign power

The French Minister of the Interior, Laurent Nuñez, stated that the case **reflects a serious attempt of invasion** into the ferry's system. He indicated that the interference is often linked to a single country, indirectly referring to **Russia**. Authorities highlight the growing concern about **hybrid warfare**, which involves disinformation, sabotage, and **cyberattacks**.

This incident emphasizes the need for vigilance and security in critical infrastructure. As the global landscape evolves, protecting against such cyber operations becomes increasingly vital.