High-value cargo thefts on the rise

High-value cargo thefts involving technology components intended for data centers are increasing in the United States, according to recent reports. These crimes use advanced techniques such as GPS jamming, AI-generated fake driver's licenses, and vehicle hijacking. NBC News reported nearly 20 such thefts in Texas, California, and other states since last year, with losses reaching approximately $725 million in 2025, a 60% increase compared to 2024.

FBI warns of sophisticated tactics

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has issued warnings about these tactics, noting that malicious actors are using advanced methods to impersonate legitimate companies, divert shipments, and steal high-value cargo. These operations often involve coordinated efforts to bypass security measures and mislead tracking systems.

High-profile thefts in June

In early June, thieves stole $13 million worth of computer equipment from a trailer heading to Fayetteville, Georgia, where one of the largest data center complexes in the country is located. The trailer was being escorted by two police officers in a plain car, which was hit by another vehicle on the highway through the Mojave Desert. The trailer continued on its route and was later found in a truck yard in California, with the equipment missing.

Repeat of similar thefts

Three weeks later, a similar incident occurred with a trailer carrying $10 million worth of server components. The trailer was being escorted by a security team and tracked via a geolocation app, but the coordinates were altered, and the trailer never reached its destination in Texas. These incidents highlight the evolving methods used by criminals to bypass security and tracking systems.

Global market for stolen goods

Since June, these thieves have stolen over $100 million in cargo, which is then sold abroad or disassembled for parts. In some cases, the thieves identify buyers before committing the thefts. Buyers are often located in countries where such components are harder to find or where gray-market parts reduce costs, such as China, which faces strict export controls on AI chips from the United States.

Experts describe the scale

Keith Lewis, director of operations at Verisk CargoNet, described the situation as a "global playground," noting that some thefts have exceeded $30 million for a single shipment. In July, thieves using fake driver's licenses stole cables and cartridges valued at $38 million in Nevada. Experts warn that these incidents represent an escalation in tactics similar to those seen in Mexico, Brazil, and Europe.

International networks involved

Scott Cornell, president of the American branch of the Transported Asset Protection Association, emphasized that these are highly organized networks operating from a dozen countries and targeting goods in the American supply chain. He described their actions as planned, elaborate, and strategic, likening them to playing chess within the supply chain. The problem is expected to worsen as major AI companies invest billions of dollars in data centers.