Maritime Cyber security

Abstract

As the maritime industry continues to digitalize in pursuit of efficiency and connectivity, it increasingly opens itself up to growing cyber threats, which may very seriously hamper operations, cause huge financial losses, or even result in environmental disasters. Specifically, this paper investigates the important aspects of maritime cybersecurity about protecting infrastructure from cyber threats. The paper points to the weaknesses brought about by the integration of IT and OT systems in the maritime sector, illustrated with high-profile incidents like the NotPetya attack on Maersk and the cyber breach at the Port of Antwerp, and calls for the establishment of sound cybersecurity frameworks in maritime operations. Advanced threat detection systems, network segmentation, data encryption, and human factors all play key roles in mitigating such risks. The paper concludes by calling for industry-wide collaboration in implementing good practices to ensure that global supply chains and the wider economy are safe and secure from the threat of cyber-attacks.