John Catsimatidis
https://youtu.be/pZMLcM67_no
In a joint press conference Monday morning, New York Congressman Andrew Garbarino and John Catsimatidis discussed last week’s pipeline cyber-attack and vowed to keep Americans safe from similar attacks.
“Cyber-attacks are the greatest national security threat today,” Garbarino said. “These attacks have real-world consequences for the American people.”
Colonial Pipeline Company shut down the largest US fuel pipeline on Friday after a ransomware cyber-attack. The pipeline transports about 45% of fuel used on the East Coast, and the shutdown could cause gas shortages and price increases for various forms of transportation.
Garbarino, who is the Ranking Member of the House Homeland Security’s Subcommittee on Cybersecurity, Infrastructure Protection, and Innovation, vowed to work with whatever agencies and governments he needs to in order to prevent attacks like this from happening again.
Catsimatidis, who is the CEO of United Refining Company, which processes 70,000 barrels of oil a day, described the cyberattack as “international and domestic terrorism”.
“This is cyber war,” Catsimitidis said. “They could shut down banks, they could shut down our electricity, and everybody should be worried about that. We have to beef up our ability to fight this.”
Catsimatidis stressed the rising cost of oil due to the pipeline shutdown, which acts like a tax on consumers. He added that he hopes the pipeline will reopen within the next few days so that it will be easier for Americans.
“This cannot continue,” Catsimatidis said. “I am concerned for our country. Everybody should be concerned.”
Colonial Pipeline issued a media statement Monday afternoon, saying that they are trying to restore normal functions.
“Our primary focus continues to be the safe and efficient restoration of service to our pipeline system, while minimizing disruption to our customers and all those who rely on Colonial Pipeline,” the statement said. “We appreciate the patience of the traveling public and the support we have received from the Federal Government and our peers throughout the industry.”
The full statement can be found here.
