We have received intelligence indicating that there is an active criminal crew targeting loads
near O’Hare in Chicago. As we head towards the holidays, we also anticipate an increase in
targeting out of Los Angeles as well.
These criminals are known to cut through locks and trailer bars if necessary to gain access to the
cargo. We urge all shippers to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to protect cargo.
We recommend that all shippers follow these guidelines:
1. Ensure that all cargo is properly secured and monitored during transit. This includes
using high-security locks, seals, and tracking devices.
2. Be aware of your surroundings and report any suspicious activity to the appropriate
authorities. This includes suspicious vehicles, individuals, or behavior.
3. Do not leave cargo unattended. If you must leave the cargo unattended, park in a secure
location
4. To ward off criminal surveillance at origin points, a strong overt security presence at
facilities with constant patrols working to identify criminal activity
It’s important to note that cargo thieves are constantly evolving their tactics and strategies, so
it’s crucial for logistics providers to stay informed and adapt their security measures accordingly.
By staying vigilant and taking proactive measures to protect cargo, we can help prevent theft
and ensure the safe delivery of our clients’ goods. Some methods criminal organizations use to
steal cargo include:
1. Conducting surveillance on the shipment’s route and identifying vulnerable points where
the cargo can be easily stolen.
2. Using GPS tracking devices to monitor the shipment’s movements and identify patterns
that can be exploited.
3. Targeting specific industries or types of cargo that are known to be high-value and cost
dense, such as electronics, pharmaceuticals, or luxury goods.
4. Using false identities or front companies to gain access to the shipment or to deceive
logistics providers.
With all theft methods, contextual intelligence, remote compliance monitoring, and real time
visibility are critical to preventing cargo theft. An immediate escalation process with a path to
effective law enforcement engagement is critical to recognizing and recovering cargo once it has
been stolen.