US Invokes Emergency Powers After Pipeline Hacking

The Guardian reports:

The Biden administration has invoked emergency powers as part of an “all-hands-on-deck” effort to avoid fuel shortages after the worst-ever cyber-attack on US infrastructure shut down a crucial pipeline supplying the east coast.

The federal transport department issued an emergency declaration on Sunday to relax regulations for drivers carrying gasoline, diesel, jet fuel and other refined petroleum products in 17 states and the District of Columbia.

The pipeline, operated by Georgia-based Colonial Pipeline, carries gasoline and other fuel from Texas to the north-east. It delivers roughly 45% of fuel consumed on the east coast, according to the company.

Read the full article.

CNN reports:

A criminal group originating from Russia named “DarkSide” is believed to be responsible for a ransomware cyberattack on the Colonial Pipeline, according to a former senior cyber official. DarkSide typically targets non-Russian speaking countries, the source said.

The attack has led the White House to form an interagency working group over the weekend to prepare for various scenarios, including whether additional steps need to be taken to mitigate any potential impact on fuel supply, a White House official said Sunday.

US invokes emergency powers after cyberattack shuts crucial fuel pipeline https://t.co/k8UfUUTDIT

— The Guardian (@guardian) May 10, 2021