(26 November 2024 – United States) CargoNet warns of increased cargo theft risks as criminals target semi-tractors, trailers and cargo through multiple schemes including identity fraud.
The group’s analysis of supply chain intelligence reveals 174 significant theft events during a critical six-day window from the Tuesday before Thanksgiving through the following Monday over the past five years.
Thefts are typically coordinated through sophisticated networks with connections to black market buyers.
“The Thanksgiving holiday period creates uniquely vulnerable conditions throughout the supply chain. Extended facility closures combine with reduced staffing levels to disrupt normal operating patterns. These factors create opportunities for criminal exploitation that require enhanced vigilance and security protocols” CargoNet warned in a statement.
“CargoNet strongly recommends transportation companies strengthen their security measures throughout the holiday period. Companies should implement additional verification steps for all shipments, particularly those moving through identified high-risk areas. Special attention should focus on protecting frequently targeted commodities and preventing identity fraud schemes.”