The logistics and transportation industry has witnessed a concerning surge in identity theft and scams, posing significant risks to businesses and consumers. Recent data from CNBC reveals that cargo theft has reached a staggering 57% increase from 2023 to 2024. CNBC also reports that this number could be higher since reporting theft is not mandatory. These various forms of fraud, have become major challenges for supply chains.
One of the primary contributors to an increase in cargo theft involves bad actors misusing stolen motor carrier identities to divert freight from its intended destination or obtain cash advances. Fraudsters employ tactics such as carrier identity theft, double brokering, and fictitious pickup schemes to manipulate supply chains. These attacks exploit our tools designed to enhance efficiency, making prevention crucial for companies. Allen Lund Company is working tirelessly and taking essential steps to verify the identity of carriers, implementing secure pickup procedures, and staying vigilant to safeguard against these threats.
What can carriers do to protect themselves from theft or scams? Carriers should pay attention to and even subscribe to services like Carrier411, Highway, and Verified Carrier, so they can monitor and protect their identity. Travelers Indemnity Company suggests the following to help prevent potential issues:
- Don’t leave trailers unattended
- Install landing gear locks
- Provide driver info, tractor/trailer details, and build work relationships
- Reinforce your cyber security
As the industry grapples with this escalating problem, all companies should take a proactive approach. Vigilance, collaboration, and preventive measures are key to combating identity theft and scams in logistics and transportation. The Allen Lund Company urges carriers to report and file when carriers have been victims of scams or theft. By staying informed and implementing robust security practices, businesses can mitigate the impact of fraudulent activities.