Breaking

Compromised Carrier Accounts Drive 40% of Cargo Thefts, Highway Data Shows

Criminals exploiting hijacked communications channels accounted for 40% of stolen loads tracked in the third quarter of 2026, according to Highway's freight security findings. The fraudsters gain access to established carrier accounts and use legitimate business identities to request shipments from brokers, bypassing initial trust barriers. Highway recorded 184 stolen load incidents between July and September, down 28% from the prior quarter. The company attributed the decline partly to stricter verification protocols. These include authenticated rate confirmations and enhanced identity checks before releasing freight information. Fraudulent and spoofed calls blocked by Highway increased during the period. Industry experts warn brokers must verify individuals accessing shipment data, not solely confirm carrier legitimacy. Criminals continue targeting email accounts to intercept rate confirmations and sensitive shipment details even after carrier approval.