The entire world is becoming ever more connected. Over the last few decades, this trend has been obvious, to the extent that just about every part of the modern world is equipped with an internet connection. Indeed, much of it could not function without such a connection.
This creates opportunities, as well as challenges. In certain contexts, like that of seafaring vessels, the security challenges are particularly noteworthy. Letโs take a look at how maritime operations are being influenced by the ongoing digitization of our world.
Why Digitalization Changes the Risk Equation
Modern ships are in constant communication with one another. This allows them to avert collisions, exchange data on the weather, and generally keep vessels functioning optimally. The advantages of doing this are clear. But more interconnected information technology (IT) and operational technology (OT) systems create an avenue through which an attack might be channeled. You can think of this as analogous to the floodable chambers on a large vessel. When the various parts of a system are isolated from one another, the effects of a breach can be contained. When theyโre interconnected, the entire vessel is put at risk.
Protecting Shipboard OT
Maritime Operational Technology faces a slightly different set of challenges than traditional IT systems. In this case, a compromised digital system can result in losses that go beyond lost data, since the attacker might end up being able to influence the course taken by the ship, and its ability to function. Safety and security measures might be compromised, potentially putting the entire vessel at risk.
For this reason, certain parts of a ship might be treated with special kinds of security measures. Critical systems might be accessible only to select personnel, and systems might be put in place to detect attacks early, so that corrective action can be swiftly taken.
The way that the vessel connects to the wider world is highly relevant. In most cases, this amounts to a secure and robust satellite internet connection.
Regulation Is Catching Up With Maritime Technology
Traditionally, IT and cybersecurity are thought of as concerns for dry-land-based organizations and operations. But increasingly, theyโre concerns that are integral to ship design.
The International Association of Classification Societies (IACS) recently set out its E26 Unified Requirement, which has major implications for how cyber risk is managed onboard. It represents a shift toward cybersecurity by design, and it applies to all vessels contracted after mid-2024. Itโs something that ship operators should be aware of.
Building Cyber Resilience Across the Vessel Lifecycle
Cybersecurity should extend right through the design and procurement processes, up to the point of commissioning and beyond. Itโs important to consider cybersecurity not as a single upgrade, but as an entire series of them. You might incorporate cybersecurity concerns into every aspect of your ship operations, from recruitment to training to internal processes and third-party collaborations.
Blog received via email
