The heightened threat of targeted and complex cyberattacks is prompting the maritime sector to look for ways to improve network security. In response to perpetrators continuing to devise new ways to exploit the vulnerabilities of a vessels network, Port IT has launched a fully maritime tailored Network Detection and Response (NDR) solution.

A new book, "Maritime Cybersecurity: A Guide for Leaders and Managers" by Gary C. Kessler and Steven D. Shepard was published in September to explore cybersecurity aspects of the maritime transportation sector and the threat landscape that seeks to do it harm.

French container shipping line CMA CGM Group (excluding CEVA Logistics) is currently dealing with a cyber-attack impacting peripheral servers.

Carnival Corporation has been hit by a ransomware attack that accessed and encrypted a portion of information technology (IT) systems. The unauthorised access included the download of certain data files and access to guests and employees’ personal data, which could lead to potential claims from guests, employees, shareholders, or regulatory agencies.

Cyber-attacks on the maritime industry’s operational technology (OT) systems have increased by 900 per cent over the last three years with the number of reported incidents set to reach record volumes by year end.

North Sea operator Atlantic Offshore has adopted Fleet Secure Endpoint from Inmarsat to protect against ongoing cyber threats.

The Coronavirus pandemic is leaving the maritime and offshore energy sectors vulnerable to cyber-attack, with Naval Dome citing a massive 400 per cent increase in attempted hacks since February 2020.

From left to right: David Baker, Mercia, with Daniel Ng and Ken Woghiren, CyberOwl.

Cybersecurity start-up CyberOwl has secured £1.8 million in funding to help develop its cybersecurity solution for the shipping and maritime industries.

Late last year, Cybeta, a US-headquartered cybersecurity firm, entered into the maritime market with its new cyber protection solution, CyberHelm. Following the success of its original Cybeta solution built by US intelligence-trained experts, the company made the decision to roll out its solution to maritime to help protect vulnerable maritime assets.

CyberOwl, a UK-based start-up specialising in protecting industrial systems from cyber-attacks, has been selected as a founding member of the Eastern Pacific Shipping (EPS) accelerator powered by Techstars, a global innovation programme run directly by a shipping fleet operator.