Cyber attack launched against prominent ship broker and international consultancy

Clarksons PLC, the London-based shipbroker and ocean cargo consultancy, has confirmed that it is the latest victim of a sensational cyber attack.

The violation comes in the wake of the security breaches committed against Maersk Line and FedEx subsidiary TNT Express earlier this year.

Clarksons confirms that it was subject to a “cybersecurity incident” which involved unauthorized access to the company’s computer systems.

As soon as it was discovered, Clarksons took immediate steps to respond to and manage the incident, said spokesmen:

“Our initial investigations have shown the unauthorized access was gained via a single and isolated user account which has now been disabled. We have also put in place additional security measures to best prevent a similar incident happening in the future. Clarksons would like to reassure clients and shareholders that this incident has not, and does not, affect its ability to do business.”

Still, the consultancy admitted that perpetrators may release some data.

“Issues of cybersecurity are at the forefront of many business agendas in today’s digital and commercial landscape and, despite our extensive efforts we have suffered this criminal attack,” said Andi Case, CEO of Clarksons.

He added that the consultancy is working closely with specialist police teams and data security experts to protect our clients now and in the future.

“We hope that, in time, we can share the lessons learned with our clients to help stop them from becoming victims themselves,” he said. “In the meantime, I hope our clients understand that we would not be held to ransom by criminals, and I would like to sincerely apologize for any concern this incident may have understandably raised.”