Cyber attack hits South Africa's port terminals

South African logistics firm Transnet declared force majeure as a major cyber attack continues to hamper its main port terminal operations. — REUTERS

South Africa's state-owned logistics firm Transnet says its main port terminals have been hit by a major cyber attack, prompting it to turn to a rarely-invoked clause releasing it from liability.

In a letter to its customers, dated Monday, the company said it was declaring force majeure – a clause that prevents a party from fulfilling a contract because of external and unforeseen circumstances.