How a Key U.S. Pipeline Got Knocked Out by Hackers

One of the most important energy pipelines in the U.S. has been closed by a cyberattack. Colonial Pipeline -- a critical source of supply for the New York region -- was the victim of the biggest ransomware attack on a U.S. fuel pipeline and halted all operations on its system late Friday. It’s the latest such attack on U.S. critical infrastructure.

Founded in 1962, Colonial connects refineries primarily in the Gulf Coast with customers and markets throughout the southern and eastern U.S. through a pipeline system that spans more than 5,500 miles (8,850 kilometers). Colonial says it transports about 45% of all fuel consumed on the East Coast, providing refined products to more than 50 million Americans.