# Cyberattack Disrupts North Carolina Ports, Coast Guard Leads Investigation

*Published August 7, 2026*
*Source: [https://www.metacurity.com/us-coast-guard-is-probing-a-cyberattack-that-disrupted-north-carolina-ports/](https://www.metacurity.com/us-coast-guard-is-probing-a-cyberattack-that-disrupted-north-carolina-ports/)*

## Executive Summary

A cyberattack has disrupted operations at North Carolina ports, prompting an investigation led by the US Coast Guard. The incident underscores vulnerabilities in US maritime infrastructure and highlights ongoing efforts to strengthen port cybersecurity.

## Article

The US Coast Guard is spearheading an investigation into a cyberattack that has disrupted operations at several North Carolina ports. The cyber incident affected the information technology systems at the Port of Wilmington, the Port of Morehead City, and the Charlotte Inland Terminal. While cargo operations continue, customers have been advised to expect delays as contingency measures remain in place. North Carolina Ports detected unauthorized activity on its network and has isolated the affected systems. An investigation is underway with the help of outside cybersecurity experts and law enforcement. No specific malware or threat actor has been officially identified. This incident highlights ongoing concerns about cybersecurity threats to critical US transportation infrastructure. American ports have increasingly been targeted by cybercriminals and foreign intelligence services. The Coast Guard, which has taken on a more prominent role in maritime cybersecurity, has been actively monitoring such threats. Federal efforts have been ongoing to mitigate risks, including updated guidance for reporting cyber incidents affecting the Marine Transportation System. Although there is no current evidence linking this attack to Chinese actors or equipment, it revives longstanding worries about potential vulnerabilities. The North Carolina Ports Authority has not disclosed how the breach occurred, whether data was compromised, or when they anticipate full system recovery.