Six Steps to Follow to Maximise Maritime Cyber Security

As satellite internet services has become more and more prevalent, the shipping industry has made a concerted effort to embrace it and bring it aboard their vessels. Internet has already become an inseparable part of our daily lives.

Whether it is being in touch with family and friends, having an access to a means of entertainment, or looking up information online, everything relies on the use of a fast and reliable internet connection nowadays. Thus, for the welfare of crew members, the well being of guests, and growth of the maritime business, shipping companies are increasingly bringing satellite internet services to their fleets.

However, with the uptick in cyber security attacks, the shipping industry needs to also take maritime cyber security seriously and implement precautionary and preventive measures. Training and awareness of company policies help to provide one of the most cost-efficient and effective solutions.

Here’s a look at some of the guidelines to be followed by the shipping companies using fleet broadband services:

1.  Network security

It is essential that the networks used by ships do not expose their systems to cyber-attack. The shipboard computer networks lack the boundary protection measures and are amongst the networks with the most common cyber vulnerabilities. Appropriate policy implementation and technical response can help in preventing harm to your organization from these attacks.

2. Malware prevention

Malware is malicious programming that has been designed for accessing, controlling and damaging the system. Organizations need to implement the appropriate anti-malware policy to defend their networks on-board and offshore.

3. Secure configuration

Configuration management helps in improving the security of systems and eliminates the risk of information being compromised. Organizations should come up with strategies for removing unnecessary functions from the system and fix any vulnerabilities.

4. Managing user privilege

All the network users should be given only the minimum level of system privileges and rights to do their jobs. Granting elevated system privileges should be controlled and managed.

5. Spreading awareness

The staff members both onshore and offshore play a critical role in managing maritime cyber security. The organization needs to conduct awareness programs and training to help establish a security-conscious culture.

6. Adherence to cyber security policies

Shipping companies need to monitor whether the cyber security policies are being implemented by the crew both onshore and offshore. The cyber risk can’t be avoided just by training the crew about the preventive measures, you need to ensure the measures and policies are being followed.

Explore the web for more information on tips to implement cyber security measures for fleet broadband services. You can also browse various antivirus and antimalware products websites to lookout for tips that can help in preventing cyberattacks. Additionally, connect with your IT team to create robust and strict IT management policies that can help you to keep secure from malware programs and computer viruses.

Difficulties of Some Companies Pursuing Maritime Internet Services

Maritime internet services have become a must for the commercial and cruise ships. It not only improves the quality of life of crew members on commercial ships, guests on cruise ships can also stay connected with the outer world while holidaying.

This has led to many shipping companies subscribing to various maritime internet services to meet the demands of their crew or guests. However, there are still many shipping companies who are not up to date with these latest trends.

In spite of revolutionary internet service providers like Fleet Xpress who have emerged as game changers in the maritime internet services, a few shipping companies still hold out and refrain from taking advantage of their services.

Here’s a look at the five reasons for their decision:

1. Cost to the company

The maritime internet services have evolved up to a great extent, still they are not as affordable as one would hope. Apart from the one-time installation charges, the shipping companies have to pay monthly subscription fees for the type of data plan they choose whether a commercial or cruise ship. However, the companies like Fleet Xpress have taken the maritime communication to next level and are definitely worth subscribing to for the suite of options they open up to any maritime vessel.

2. Distraction

Many companies believe that having an access to the 360 degree maritime communication services offered by fleet broadband will distract their staff and reduce productivity at work. As a result, they may decide that the trade-off of not having a strong internet connection at their disposal is worthwhile.

3. Alternatives

Companies may also believe that internet services are not important to the crew members or the guests on cruise as they have access to voice calls which may be enough to remain connected with the outside world.

4. Cyber threats

Increasing instances of cyber crimes and theft of confidential information keep the shipping companies away from maritime internet services. Therefore, they may feel that having a working internet connection on board may act against them and end up compromising their business plans, strategies, and future projects to their competition.

5. Social Media

The social media invades privacy and makes you vulnerable to millions of cyber threats. The shipping companies might be scared of any issues such as employee grievances getting escalated on the social media platform which might tarnish their reputation. It has become a common medium of expression which might keep the shipping companies away from maritime internet services.

Explore web for more information on fleet broadband and how to subscribe its services for the sea-vessels.

Top Three Ways to Access Internet While Aboard Your Vessel

A holiday on a cruise is the time when you wish to spend some leisure time with your loved ones, away from the hustle and bustle of the city. You want to forget all your personal and professional worries and leave your phone behind. But that can be an unrealistic goal for some, as it can be impossible to sever ties with personal and professional contacts, even for a short span of time.

There is work that needs to be done and deadlines that must be met in your absence. The pile up of unfinished work will be waiting to welcome you upon arrival. Hence, it may not always be possible to spend days on a ship without having access to an internet connection. However, providing broadband services on a ship is not as easy as on land. Fortunately, though there are no cables or towers to support maritime internet, it has been made possible with the advent of modern technology.

The various ways of accessing maritime internet on a cruise are as follows:

1. Dial-ups

The simple dial-up connection of cell phones is one of the most common ways of providing an internet connection on a cruise. But dial up is not the most reliable option nor the fastest as it depends on the reception of signal of the cell phone being used. The phone works as modem but a lack of signal will hamper its efficiency and connectivity.

2. Wireless devices

Some people take their wireless devices to access internet while on cruise but, that too, does not seem to work very well. Wireless devices can easily access the internet when they are near to ports as the network is available easily, whoever even the data cards aren’t that effective once the ship departs.

3. Satellite connections

The most efficient way of providing internet on ships is through fleet broadband satellite services. Installing a hardware for direct connection with satellite offers easy internet access to all, passengers as well as the crew, on-board. The hardware taps the internet signals from anywhere and everywhere, thus, delivers stronger signals and uninterrupted internet browsing sessions. The charges for hardware installation varies based on the ship size, internet usage, desired speed, and budget.

Having an internet connection on a ship is a necessity and the shipping companies should take resort to satellite-supported broadband services for hassle-free surfing. Explore the web for more information on internet providers for sea vessels and contact a reliable vendor for a demo.

What are the Benefits of an Internet Connection on the Ship?

Where once people might have taken the ability to stay in contact as a luxury, it is now taken for granted. Mobile phones have grown smaller and mobile networks faster. Everyone carries a smartphone now, with the ability to glance at the latest news and contact their love ones at the touch of a button. This is nowhere more lacking than on cruise ships. While planes might take away your connection for a few hours, a cruise might take you away from “civilization” and your loved ones for days, even weeks. The need for a quick, serviceable internet is especially felt by those on a cruise.

However, thanks to the revolutionary services granted by modern mobile satellite systems, it is now easier than ever to access the internet even while a board a ship. Now you can access the internet to browse various sites, upload, and download data across the globe at reasonable speeds; even at remote locations.

This much-needed excellent service is provided by Fleet Broadband. It provides cost-efficient voice and data on board with help of a compact antenna which ensures 99.9% network connectivity. Backed by the reliability of L-band service, it ensures high-speed data irrespective of the part of the globe you are travelling.

The maritime sector has thousands of sea vessels which put their trust on Fleet Broadband for their comprehensive internet requirements. It helps in boosting the morale of the crew by enabling them to stay in touch with family, access social media, and even stream entertainment online. They also offer safety services to the vessels allowing them to contact the Maritime Rescue and Coordination Centre with a distress button in case of emergencies.

The key benefits of internet services on ship are:

• Standard IP data for applications, emails, internet access

• Committed rates for live applications and video conferencing

• Pre-paid/ post-paid calling options for crew

• Enhanced voice services like caller barring, call forwarding and caller identification

• Make and receive calls and SMS texts through GSM

• Send/ receive SMS from another terminal on fleet board through smartphone/tablet/PC

• Free emergency calling to MRCC for distress call

Benefits of Maritime Internet on a ship:

• It will help in monitoring the fuel usage by tracking the underlying issue and addressing it with the help of technical support.

• It will help in addressing a complex medical issue on-board without having to wait for the port.

• Internet will help in protecting against pirates or other dangers with help of surveillance cameras.

• Internet services will also help in weather forecast and locate direction in case of confusion.

If you are in a shipping business, then it is important for you to stay updated with the new developments in the marine world. Find more on the web about the marine internet services, its benefits and how shipping companies can get them installed for better business growth.

Everything You Need to Know to Ensure Complete Cyber Security on Ships

Cyber security threats are complex to figure out and growing at a rapid pace. It can lead to unpredictable outcomes, which makes cyber security a major concern. It is critical to address the issues as it includes compromising the security of various offshore and shipping operations. Securing vulnerable networks and ensuring that network systems are not compromised is becoming more difficult with as hackers get smarter and more technologically advanced. There have been multiple scenarios of cyber attacks and other vulnerabilities experienced in the recent past, and an important part of the cyber security solution depends on developing a sound, systematic procedure to help in combating the risks.

There are many companies that make use of step by step processes to evaluate cyber security related to the vessels with relevant purposes in land management. Some of the best tactics used in the field to reduce risks in energy, maritime and oil and gas applications involve recognizing the potential threats and quickly developing strategies to protect against them. The tactics should be in relation to both behavioral and technical aspects.

How to Create a Security Procedure to Ensure Maritime Cyber Security?

In the industry of ship owning, maritime cyber security is an important and difficult issues to grapple with. It affects many different fields and poses high risks to the safety as well as data security. There are different kinds of approaches which help in addressing the issues; some of them are explained as follows.

1. Assessment and enhancement of cyber security

There are various companies that can help in identifying the risks through various applications. Once the bridge between the procedures is recognized, various approaches can be taken in fighting against these risks.

2. Fleet broadband

Fleet broadband is a satellite working for the huge vessels and offering maritime communication solutions. Usually, there are three antennas working in tandem to provide communications and contribute to various functionalities. They help in enabling telecommunications between ships and the main land and offer a wide area of network.

3. Penetration testing

It is essential to test the strength of various firewalls and security systems in place to make sure they are safe and secure. These procedures will help in determining the strength of the systems in an effective and comprehensive way.

There are various companies offering these services, however it is really important to find the ones that are reliable and reputable in the industry. Maintaining a strong strategy and procedure to ensure optimal cyber security is essential to combat threats that may cause serious damage to your business, reputation or even crew members. Explore the web for more tips on finding a reliable service partner.

Maritime Internet:Three Key Usages You Must Know About

Undoubtedly, maritime industry is a continually growing at a faster pace, and things are becoming technologically advanced to deliver best services to the global businesses and sea operations. Most of the service providers, who deal in offering maritime communication support to sea vehicles and equipment, are adopting latest technologies and techniques to help sailors stay connected with the outside world.

Plenty of maritime schools, educational institutions, and other related coaching centers are offering necessary training to help aspiring sailors, captains, and seafarer to develop the necessary skill set they should have for ensuring safe sea operations. If you belong to maritime industry and are aren’t aware of the key usages of having maritime internet connections on sea vessels, then read the sections below to turn yourself into a knowledgeable geek who can play active role in deciding sea communication strategies while on sea operations:

1.Serves as Means of Communications During Sea Journeys

Maritime internet finds its key usage in serving as a connectivity link between people in sea and on shores. Offering specific means of communication amidst sea operations, Fleet Xpress services help people on ship to reconnect with their family and friends is an easier manner. Seafarers can easily use social media sites to update their family and friends about their well-being and journeys. Also, they can access information related to weather conditions, current affairs and viral trends without losing high-speed connections.

2.Contributes in Enhancing Knowledge and Skills

Having Fleet Broadband on boats, ships, and other sea vehicles is essential to ensure that seafarers can improve their knowledge and skills continuously. It helps in improving the workflow by assisting them in designing, planning, and implementing newer strategies for their sea journey and discovering success without actually investing much of their time. Seafarer scan continuously learn about news, trends, and study things about maritime industry to constructively contribute towards the improvement of current sea processes and operations.

3.Faster and Better Results

Mapping the progress of sea operations becomes much easier, faster, and better with introduction of internet in crucial processes. Internet and information technology combines to ensure that the shipping processes are getting completed on time and are accurate as per the details mentioned on other web sources for avoiding any confusions and conflicts. Fleet Broadband can result in faster processing of mentioned tasks and can assist in delivering better results by improving the overall functionality of processes.

Evaluating cyber security aspects in the maritime industry

It has been estimated that approximately 90 percent of world trade occurs via ocean. The computerized systems and automated machines that the maritime sector relies upon are not equipped enough to meet the threats of the 21st century. With increased digitalization and automation, the maritime industry has now opened doors to vulnerabilities, with potentially devastating consequences. It has been estimated that cyber risks to the maritime sector are likely to increase in 2018 due to mandatory implementation of navigational systems. So, what maritime companies can do to increase maritime cyber security?

A cyber criminal hacked the e-services section of the website of a port in Oman in 2016 and released customer data. In July 2016, a cyber activist group targeted three maritime companies and leaked confidential documents. All such incidents reveal that the maritime sector is vulnerable to cyber attacks. With cyber threats in the maritime sector expected to increase in the coming years, it is important for organizations to be prepared.

·         Port operators and shipping companies should analyze and mitigate the vulnerabilities present in newly released software and hardware, and patch security holes promptly before integrating them into their ships or facilities. Shipping companies should use only secured communication systems such as Inmarsat Fleet Broadband for transferring voice and broadband data from ship to port facilities.

·         All companies related to the maritime sector should develop good practices for the implementation of Information Communication Technology (ICT) components that have “security by design” in order to avoid any cyber threat.

·         Maritime cyber security awareness among crew is currently low. So it is highly recommended to undertake maritime sector awareness raising campaigns and cyber security training of shipping companies, staff members, and port authorities.

·         Currently, maritime security regulations and policies consider only physical aspects of security and safety. Therefore, it is essential that policy makers should now add cyber security aspects to their new regulations for minimizing future cyber attacks.

All companies in the maritime industry should start acting on these measures needed to ensure greater cyber security protections. These measures, such as maritime cyber security awareness, training, better regulations and using secured fleet broadband systems for communication, will also help them to avoid catastrophic losses and becoming another victim of cyber crime.