Some Common Cyber Security Challenges Faced by Maritime Sector

The shipping industry operates on the information systems to run many essential processes effectively. These include nautical security, navigation, steering, energy production, communication, and propulsion to name a few. Just like any other information system, these processes, whether embedded or not, are vulnerable to cyberattack, and the loss of valuable, confidential information can have serious consequences for the shipping company,

Increased threat of cyberattack with introduction of digitization 

Digital technology continues to spread its way through the naval sector, becoming indispensable in such places as the management systems for sea vessels, cargo, and port infrastructures. The digital revolution has helped to increase profitability, productivity, and competitiveness within industries. However, with the interconnectedness of ships and shore comes the risk of cyberattack in the maritime sector.

It is not just the ships that are vulnerable to cyberattacks but any related infrastructure will be exposed as well by association. A vulnerable ship is not only exposing itself but also its network to any shore-based operations, thus introducing one big point of weakness in an otherwise secure network. Physical interaction with the ship could potentially allow even something as small as a USB drive to compromise an entire operation.

Measures implemented by shipping industry to combat the cyberattacks

- Considering the vulnerability of ships to cyberattack, most shipping companies have incorporated maritime cyber security measures into the designing phase of the ship to prevent or detect probable cyberattacks.

- Most companies have cyber security workshops or seminars, not just amongst experts but amongst shipboard workers to increase awareness about the cyber threat and how to prevent it.

- They have also started analysing the types of risks associated with the introduction of mobile satellite services as well as implementing the required measures for improving cyber security.

- Security measures and software protecting the maritime cyber security threat at port infrastructure is constantly being evaluated and upgraded.

Though the shipping industry benefits from mobile satellite services and satellite internet services, the introduction of these new technologies has increased the threat of cyberattacks. It is essential for the shipping companies to implement the appropriate cyber security measures to combat the situation.

Explore web for more information on how to implement cyber security measures for the maritime sector and experience high-end security and end-to-end monitoring of sea vessels.