In late August 2026, U.S. Coast Guard and FBI cybersecurity teams boarded two oil tankers en route to the United States after detecting signs of hacking. The vessels were intercepted in the Gulf of Mexico between August 21 and 24 to assess and ensure the security of their navigational, propulsion, and cargo management systems, which had reportedly been compromised. The operation was conducted in cooperation with the tankers’ captains, crews, and onshore company staff, preventing any immediate disruption or danger.

One of the affected tankers has been identified as VL Prosperity, a large oil tanker capable of carrying over 2 million barrels, currently located in the Gulf. Reportedly, Iranian media sources indicated the vessel was hacked on August 7 while traveling from Egypt to the U.S., with attackers manipulating its speed and fuel systems and cutting off communications for more than 24 hours. The United States is investigating potential Iranian involvement, as Tehran has been linked to cyberattacks amid ongoing conflict with the U.S. and Israel following the killing of Iran’s supreme leader earlier this year.

The incident highlights the increasing vulnerabilities facing global shipping and logistics, where complex onboard networks are critical for operations but can be targets for cybercriminals or hostile state actors. The attack on such a high-capacity oil tanker poses significant risks not only to navigation and safety but could also impact energy supply chains if malicious intent were realized. Both the FBI and Coast Guard have underscored that no disruptive or hazardous outcomes resulted from the breaches at this time.

This hack aligns with a broader pattern of cyber aggression attributed to Iranian-backed groups, including recent attacks on U.S. healthcare, transit, and water infrastructure. The U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency has described these efforts as opportunistic in nature, linked to geopolitical tensions and retaliation for ongoing military conflict. The coordinated maritime boardings demonstrate a proactive response to secure critical assets and networks essential to national security and economic stability.