By Neill
The ferry service for Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket was targeted in a ransomeware attack that slowed service Wednesday just days into the peak season.
Customers were unable to book tickets or change reservations online or over the phone, according to officials. Credit card payment systems used to process tickets and parking fees were also impacted.
By Wednesday evening, Steamship Authority’s website was still not operational.
Although service was slowed, no ferries were canceled, CNN reported.
“The Woods Hole, Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket Steamship Authority has been the target of a ransomware attack that is affecting operations as of Wednesday morning. As a result, customers traveling with us today may experience delays,” the Steamship Authority tweeted.
Law enforcement officials were investigating “the extent and origin of the attack,” the agency said. Officials did not disclose if there was a demand for ransom.
“The Coast Guard is working in conjunction with the Massachusetts State Police Cyber Security Unit and the FBI, who has the lead on this incident,” Coast Guard Petty Officer Amanda Wyrick reportedly said. “The incident does not affect the safety of passengers.”
The security breach is the latest recent cyberattack against large companies.
JBS Foods, the world’s largest meat supplier, was forced to shut down its US plants following a cyberattack Tuesday. By Wednesday, most of the plants were reopened.
A ransom demand had come from “a criminal organization likely based in Russia,” according to the White House.
An attack last month on the Colonial Pipeline caused the price of gas to jump and led officials to make an emergency declaration in 17 states.
The nation’s largest pipeline paid $4.4 million to the culprits.
