Trojan Malware Found on Ferry in France Sparks Security Probe

A Trojan malware program was discovered aboard the passenger ferry Fantastic while it was docked in the port of Sète, France, reportedly capable of giving attackers remote access to the vessel’s systems.

Interior Minister Laurent Nuñéz called the situation “very serious” and noted that involvement by a foreign state is among the main lines of inquiry. The Directorate-General for Internal Security (DGSI) has opened a formal investigation.

The malware was identified while the ship was alongside in Sète, after French authorities were alerted by their counterparts in Italy. The vessel was immediately secured and isolated.

Specialists determined that the malicious software was a Remote Access Trojan (RAT), a type capable of allowing full remote control of onboard systems if activated.

Two crewmembers were detained for questioning. A Bulgarian crew member was later released without charges. A Latvian crew member, however, has been charged with criminal conspiracy and computer intrusion on behalf of a foreign power.

Following detailed technical inspections, authorities confirmed the vessel poses no remaining cyber risk and has been cleared to return to service.