Australia is taking action in response to an ongoing cyberattack affecting major ports, leading port operator DP World to temporarily limit network access on Saturday. The operator closed four ports in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and Fremantle after identifying a cybersecurity incident late on Friday night.
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FREMANTLE, AUSTRALIA - MARCH 27: A passenger walks from the MV Artania to be attended to by waiting paramedics on the wharf at the Fremantle Passenger Terminal on March 27, 2020 in Fremantle, Australia. The MV Artania has been given permission to dock in Fremantle, despite having seven passengers infected with COVID-19.
Australian Ports Facing Cyberattack
Australian ports across various states are currently facing closure in the aftermath of a significant and persistent cyber attack. The target of the attack is reported to be DP World Australia, a port operator overseeing 18 ports in the country. Home Affairs Minister Clare O'Neil highlighted that the company plays a crucial role in managing nearly 40% of the goods transported to and from Australia.
Reuters reported that the country's cybersecurity coordinator has expressed concerns that the cybersecurity incident may persist for an extended period, potentially spanning several days. DP World Australia has announced the limitation of landside access to its port operations amid the ongoing investigation.
In a statement to the Australian Financial Review, the company shared its commitment to addressing the situation comprehensively. This includes collaborating with cybersecurity experts, actively probing the incident, and promptly informing the relevant authorities.
The restrictions implemented by DP World have hindered the unloading of freight from ships and prevented freight from exiting the port site. Air Marshal Darren Goldie, the federal cybersecurity coordinator, acknowledged the government's response to a nationally significant incident affecting multiple maritime port facilities.
Taking in Action
The Australian government agencies conducted crisis talks on Sunday in response to a cyber incident disrupting key ports across the country. Forexlive reported that port operator DP World suspended internet connectivity at major ports, including Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and Fremantle, to prevent unauthorized access to its network.
Meanwhile, the Australian Federal Police are conducting an investigation into the incident. National Cyber Security Coordinator Darren Goldie stated that the disruption is expected to persist for several days, impacting the flow of goods in and out of the country. DP World Australia has limited access to its port operations during the investigation.
Following emergency meetings on Saturday, the National Coordination Mechanism, involving government, maritime, and logistics representatives, reconvened on Sunday to coordinate the government's response. Representatives from Australia's National Emergency Management Agency also participated in the discussions.
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Goldie noted that the disruption was expected to persist for "a number of days," affecting the flow of goods in and out of the country. He emphasized the priority of assisting DP World Australia in resolving the incident to restore access to the ports nationwide.
The Independent reported that the cybersecurity incident occurred after a cyberattack on Melbourne's Coinspot cryptocurrency exchange, resulting in over $2 million being stolen from accounts. In September, a data breach exposed the information of nearly 200,000 Pizza Hut customers.
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