Back after some years SH3 vs SH5 experience

[Sailor Steve]

Originally Posted by BigWalleye

If they're in an escorted convoy, or in designated areas, or sailing dark, then AFAIK they are always fair game.

The game doesn't make a distinction. Only some neutrals are lighted, so dark ships can be neutral. In a convoy? It doesn't matter. If it's green on the map or flying the flag of a neutral country, it's neutral, and you will be docked points for sinking it. This is why I changed my Neutral renown to '0'.