UPDATE: The search continues to find a solution to the interruption of service to Rand McNally’s electronic logging devices including its DriverConnect platform. Service was disrupted earlier this week by what the company has called a “cyber incident.”
Here is the latest update from our inquiry at about 10:45 a.m. eastern today:
“The investigation is ongoing. As of this writing, there is no definite turnaround time as to when this will be lifted and we are still waiting for updates and directive from the team.
“We appreciate your patience and understanding and assure you we are working around the clock to restore our services.”
Our original story:
Rand McNally continues working to repair problems with its electronic logging devices including its DriverConnect platform caused by what the company is calling a “cyber incident.”
The response from a customer support online chat at about 10:45 a.m. today said:
“As of this writing we are still waiting for updates from our team with regards about the status of the system though we can assure you that data and credentials remain safe. Hoping to hear further instructions within today.”
On Tuesday, Nov. 24, the company posted on Facebook, “We recently discovered a disruption to certain portions of our computer network. We commenced an immediate investigation that included taking certain systems offline and working with computer forensic specialists to determine the nature and scope of the event.”
On Wednesday, the company sent an email that said, “In an effort to be as transparent with you as we are with our customers, we are making you aware of a cyber incident that is affecting Rand McNally’s hosted and network systems. As a result, the network that supports our DriverConnect ELD platform is not working. As per FMCSA rules, we are instructing fleets and drivers to use paper-based logging until we can restore our systems. We assure you that we are focusing our resources on restoring the functionality of our network to resume delivery of our full range of services.”
While truckers have reported problems with their Rand McNally ELDs, the company has said the “cyber incident” has not caused any problems with its navigation devices.
At least one tech publication is speculating on the cause of the problem. Bleepingcomputer.com Thursday, Nov. 26 wrote, “Although Rand McNally made no official statement regarding this, the cyberattack currently affecting its systems shows all the signs of a ransomware attack starting with large scale operational disruption and the ongoing efforts toward network restoration.”
If you have questions about ELD use and using paper logs, check out what the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration has to say.
NOTE: This is a developing story so check back later for possible updates.