PARIS – French authorities have launched an investigation into a possible cyberattack plot targeting an international passenger ferry, with the country’s counterespionage agency at the helm of the probe.

Currently, a crew member from Latvia has been detained under suspicion of collaborating with an unnamed foreign entity. Although the investigation is ongoing, Interior Minister Laurent Nunez suggested a potential link to Russia, alluding to frequent foreign interference emanating from a familiar source.

Amidst the backdrop of rising tensions, France, in concert with other European allies of Ukraine, has accused Russia of engaging in “hybrid warfare.” This strategy allegedly includes a mix of sabotage, assassinations, cyberattacks, and disinformation, which are often designed to obscure Moscow’s involvement.

The investigation was spurred by intelligence from Italian authorities, who alerted France’s General Directorate of Internal Security. This specialized agency, responsible for counterespionage and counterterrorism, received reports that a ferry docked at the Mediterranean port of Sète might have been compromised by software typically employed by cybercriminals.

The software in question, known as RAT, enables remote control of computer systems. The Paris prosecutor’s office indicated that this tool could have been used to seize control of the ferry’s onboard computers. However, the office has yet to disclose the identity of the ferry involved in this alarming incident.

Nunez told public broadcaster France Info that “individuals tried to gain access to a ship’s data-processing system.” He described it as “a very serious affair.” Asked if the suspected intention was to hijack the vessel, he said: “We don’t know.”

He added: “The investigators appear to be following a trail of interference … foreign interference.”

Police on Friday arrested two of the ferry’s crew members — one Latvian, the other Bulgarian — who Italian authorities had identified as suspects, the prosecutor’s office said. The Bulgarian was subsequently released without charge after questioning.

The Latvian national is being held on a preliminary criminal conspiracy charge and two preliminary charges of hacking-related offenses with the goal of serving the interests of an unnamed foreign power, the prosecutor’s office said.

It said search raids were also carried out in Latvia. Latvian state police said they had no comment.

The ferry is now back in operation after being held in port for security checks to its computer system, the prosecutor’s office said.

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AP European Security Correspondent Emma Burrows in London contributed.