France’s internal security agency launched an investigation after receiving a tip from Italian authorities regarding a potential cyber threat targeting a ship in the Mediterranean. Investigators discovered that the ferry’s computer systems had been infected with software known as a Remote Access Trojan, which allows external users to take control of digital operations from a distance. While the specific ferry was not named, the vessel was held in port for security sweeps and has since returned to service.
The investigation led to the arrest of two crew members, one from Latvia and one from Bulgaria. While the Bulgarian national was released without being charged, the Latvian sailor remains in custody on preliminary charges of criminal conspiracy and hacking. These charges specifically allege that his actions were intended to serve the interests of a foreign power, and the investigation has expanded to include raids conducted by law enforcement within Latvia.
Interior Minister Laurent Nunez described the incident as a very serious affair, noting that the suspects were attempting to gain deep access to the ship’s data-processing systems. Although he did not confirm whether the ultimate goal was to hijack the vessel, he emphasized that investigators are following a clear trail of foreign interference. He pointedly remarked that such hostile activities frequently originate from the same country, a comment interpreted as a reference to Russia.
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This incident occurs amid rising tensions as France and its European allies accuse Russia of conducting hybrid warfare across the continent. These hostile acts often include a mix of sabotage, disinformation, and cyberattacks designed to be difficult to trace directly back to Moscow. By targeting infrastructure like international ferries, these operations aim to create instability and compromise the security of European transportation networks.
The Paris prosecutor’s office continues to coordinate with international partners to determine the full scope of the plot and the identity of the state actors involved. For now, the focus remains on the Latvian suspect and the forensic analysis of the hardware found on the ship. The case highlights the increasing vulnerability of maritime technology to digital infiltration and the ongoing geopolitical friction between Western Europe and foreign intelligence services.
Source: France Investigates Possible Foreign Interference After Remote Control Malware Found On Ferry