CYBERATTACK EMERGENCY

WASHINGTON: The US government declared a regional emergency on Sunday as the largest fuel pipeline system in the US remained largely shut down, two days after a major ransomware attack was detected.

The Colonial Pipeline Company ships gasoline and jet fuel from the Gulf Coast of Texas to the east coast through 8850km of pipeline, serving 50 million people.

The company said it was the victim of a cybersecurity attack involving ransomware — attacks that encrypt computer systems and seek to extract payments from operators.

“This declaration addresses the emergency conditions creating a need for immediate transportation of gasoline, diesel, jet fuel, and other refined petroleum products and provides necessary relief,” the Department of Transportation said.