Invest in developing Cyber Security Culture

Cybersecurity is a constantly growing important topic for the maritime and offshore industries due to quick digital transformation and with that arises new threats and regulatory requirements.

Optimization of operations remains a critical effort, and those who can use and apply new technologies, digital solutions will have the upper hand in going ahead in the future. Cybersecurity is a serious risk area, as ship operation is mostly dependent on the effectiveness of software-based systems to carry out day-to-day actions on board and extending support from shore.

Cybersystems for vessels and mobile units are divided as either IT (standard information systems) or OT (operation and control systems).

IT is usually more mature when it originates to cybersecurity, with a pre-defined set of procedures, technology and training being applied using an information security management system – either at the shore or on the ship. A breakdown of IT systems can have a significant reputational and financial impact. However, it typically does not impact the safe operation of Vessels and units.

OT, in dissimilarity, is not as matured when it comes to cybersecurity, and an attack on onboard OT systems may risk the vessel’s and crew’s safety. As a class society, an approved organization we work together with the industry to ensure owners, yards and operators and managers are prepared to build and operate cyber-secure ships and offshore units.

Cyber Security Impacts in 2021:

1. Increased Remote working environment
2. COVID 19 Crisis exploitation
3. Ransomware Challenges
4. OT Automations & Data Analysis (AI)
5. Real Time Monitoring & Visibility (ML in Cybersecurity)
6. Insider Threats

What makes cybersecurity increasingly important in maritime?

1. New technology, increase in demand for automation and digitalization are enabling maritime industry to be more efficient. At the same time, cyber security measurements are required to be in place in order to handle any such risks this new technology brings with it, as well as to ensure that we keep vessel operation and crew safe.
2. Rise in cyber incidents is affecting shipping and offshore. As vessels are integrated with IOT devices, the risk of being on the radar of cyber attackers to disrupt the operation of vessels comes and can attack your vessels and potentially gain access to or impact the vessel’s control systems.
3. Regulations and mandatory laws are being introduced that require owners, operators and managers to consider cyber risks, such as the IMO Guidelines on Maritime Cyber Risk Management.

Invest in developing Cyber Security Culture:

1. Analyze your Business processes and make tailor made    security policies.
2. Train your crew and other staff as per department / role/ process wise customized training. Insider Threats are much of concern in compromising cyber security of any organization.
3. Do periodic Cyber Security Assessments.
4. Invest in processes (Regulations : TMSA3, IMO)

As a class society being our partner, we work to keep vessels safe. Cybersecurity is an increasingly important part of SMART SHIP HUB’s risk approach. Our experts have wide experience in combining maritime cybersecurity, IT, control systems, and all industry demands.

Smart Ship© Hub’s competence lies in understanding the industry requirements and delivering the needs. We have also a range of auditors and developers who are always developing and monitoring the systems. Smart Ship© Hub’s cyber-secure class notation and recommended practices are tailored to specific maritime needs.