License to Steal: America's Supply Chain Under Siege, a Bond Investigation

Shaken Not Shipped: The State of Play

The name's Bond James Bond. And this isn't some elaborate plot by a megalomaniac with a penchant for monologues. This is real. America's supply chain once a well oiled machine is now resembling a shaken Martini – all stirred up and quite bitter. Criminal organizations are treating our highways like a 'property is theft' playground warehouses like Fort Knox but with significantly less security. 'Do you expect me to talk?' No I expect you to read pay attention and remember that millions are at stake.

Goldeneye for the Goods: How They Do It

These villains more adept at logistics than Blofeld ever was are using technology against us. Doctored invoices impersonations – it's all a bit 'catch me if you can' but with lorries instead of private jets. They're exploiting the very systems designed to make things efficient turning them into tools of their trade. And might I add it's a 'low risk high reward' game a gamble I am sure even Goldfinger would indulge in.

The Numbers Don't Lie: A Quantum of Solace for the Thieves

In 2024 we saw nearly 3,800 incidents a 26% jump from the previous year. Losses? Nearly half a billion dollars officially. But whispers in the shadows suggest the real figure is closer to a billion maybe more. Train heists alone are up 40%. It's a 'world is not enough' but for all the wrong reasons. Someone needs to remind them that some people have to learn there are limits.

Strategic Theft: The New License to Steal

The villains are getting crafty. 'Strategic theft' as they call it involves tricking shippers brokers and carriers. It used to be a minor annoyance but now it accounts for a third of all cargo crime. Tracking these ghosts is nearly impossible as they leave no paper trail. 'Think of identity theft,' they say. I couldn't agree more 'A great advantage is to be able to leave the enemy guessing'.

No Time to Die (For Groceries): The Cost to You

And who pays the price? You do. Retailers pass on the losses so your grocery bill goes up. That Lacoste shirt you wanted? Stolen. Now you are forced to choose between comfort and style – 'Never say never again'. I am not alone and it seems the bad guys are not alone. They have people on the inside giving intel taking information off the web and hitting products within days.

The Aftermath

The big companies are starting to pay attention congress introducing a bill with the goal of coordination across the Homeland Security. Let's hope these 'villains' meet their 'Waterloo'. The security companies are beginning to get a hold on the new age hacking schemes with increased focus on new tech.