Stay safe at sea by preventing maritime cyber attacks

Understanding and addressing potential maritime cyber threats is essential

A single cyberattack can bring a shipping company to a standstill—blocking access to navigation systems, locking critical operational data, or even delaying an entire fleet. With limited IT resources and increasing reliance on digital tools, many shipowners and managers are vulnerable.

The cost of an attack isn’t just financial; it can erode customer trust, disrupt operations, and lead to regulatory fines. Understanding and addressing these threats is essential. However, navigating the complexities of maritime cybersecurity is challenging—even for experts. While no one can be expected to know everything, staying informed about potential risks is crucial. By being aware of what can happen, shipowners and managers can better identify where they need support and take proactive steps to safeguard their operations.

Here are some key maritime cyber threats to be aware of:

Ransomware attacks crippling onboard systems
Hackers can infiltrate ship systems and encrypt critical data, rendering navigation, propulsion, or cargo handling systems inoperable. Ransom demands can be very high, and downtime can cause significant losses.

Supply chain attacks compromising software integrity
Hackers can use software updates or vendor systems to sneak malware into ship networks. These attacks are particularly dangerous because they often go unnoticed until serious damage is done.

DDoS attacks disrupting communication
A Distributed Denial of Service Attack (DDoS) is a cyberattack where the attacker overwhelms a network, server, or website with a massive amount of traffic to make the system unavailable to legitimate users. DDoS attacks can flood a ship’s network, making communication with shore and other vessels impossible. These attacks have been used in geopolitical conflicts to obstruct maritime operations.

Phishing attacks targeting crew members
Cybercriminals send fake emails or messages that appear to come from trusted sources, tricking crew members into revealing login credentials or downloading malware.

Weak IoT security
Modern vessels are increasingly reliant on IoT-connected devices, which, if not properly secured, can be an easy entry point for cybercriminals.

Brute-force attacks on login credentials
Cybercriminals attempt to gain access to critical systems by systematically guessing passwords, particularly when weak or default passwords are used.

Six essentials to improve your ship’s cybersecurity

Cybersecurity is not a one-size-fits-all solution. It requires a combination of robust infrastructure, well-defined routines, and continuous monitoring. Here are six key measures every shipowner and ship manager should implement:

  • Regular security updates Ensure all systems receive the latest security patches and updates to close vulnerabilities.
  • Multi-factor authentication (MFA) Whenever possible, do protect access to critical systems by requiring multiple authentication factors for all users.
  • Network segmentation Restrict unauthorized access by segmenting networks and using firewalls to control traffic.
  • Security training for staff Crew members are often the weakest link. Conduct regular cybersecurity training and emphasize the importance of not opening suspicious emails or attachments.
  • Continuous monitoring and AI-driven detection Implement monitoring systems that detect unusual activity and leverage AI to respond proactively.
  • Integrate cybersecurity with safety protocols Just like safety procedures onboard cannot be overlooked, cybersecurity must be an integral part of operational routines. Define clear roles and responsibilities for cyber risk management.

Bring in the experts

Building a secure cyber environment is complex, but you don’t have to do it alone. If your organization lacks in-house expertise, partnering with cybersecurity specialists can ensure your vessels are protected against evolving threats.

Learn more about our cybersecurity solutions 

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