Hackers Accessed Oil Tanker Propulsion System Near Texas Coast

Investigators say hackers got temporary access to part of a large oil ship’s computer systems.

The ship, called the VL Prosperity, was sailing toward Galveston, Texas.

The affected system helps operate the ship’s propulsion.

The FBI and Coast Guard boarded the vessel in August after it lost communications and officials saw signs of a network problem.

Investigators are still trying to learn how the breach happened and who was behind it.

They have not said how long the hackers had access or what they could control.

The FBI said there were no reports of danger to the ship, its crew, or the environment.

A maritime cybersecurity expert warned that unauthorized access to ships can have serious consequences.

Another expert said ships generally have backup systems crews can use.