Ransomware attack forces shutdown of largest fuel pipeline in the U.S.

Ransomware attack forces shutdown of largest fuel pipeline in the U.S.

Signage is displayed on a fence at the Colonial Pipeline Co. Pelham junction and tank farm in Pelham, Alabama, U.S., on Monday, Sept. 19, 2016.

The country's top fuel pipeline operator Colonial Pipeline fell victim to a cybersecurity attack on Friday that involved ransomware, forcing it to temporarily shut down all pipeline operations, the company said in a statement on Saturday.

The firm has hired a third-party cybersecurity firm to launch a probe into the incident and has contacted law enforcement and other federal agencies. The cyberattack has affected some of its IT systems too.

Colonial Pipeline, which transports nearly half of the East Coast's fuel supply, said it is "taking steps to understand and resolve this issue."

"At this time, our primary focus is the safe and efficient restoration of our service and our efforts to return to normal operation," the company said in a statement.

"This process is already underway, and we are working diligently to address this matter and to minimize disruption to our customers and those who rely on Colonial Pipeline," the company said.

Colonial Pipeline is the largest refined products pipeline in the country, transporting 100 million gallons or 2.5 million barrels per day, according to its website. Its system spans over