Adrian Johnson
TLDR:
• The shipping industry is facing an increase in cyberattacks, with at least 64 incidents reported last year compared to only three in 2013 and zero in 2003.
• More than 80% of cyber incidents involving known attackers originated from Russia, China, North Korea, or Iran.
The shipping sector is reportedly facing a spike in cyberattacks tied to state-sponsored hackers. The industry saw at least 64 cyber incidents last year, marking a significant increase from previous years. Research by the Netherlands’ NHL Stenden University of Applied Sciences found that there were three such incidents in 2013 and none in 2003. The report highlighted that more than 80% of incidents involving known attackers originated from Russia, China, North Korea, or Iran, presenting a significant threat to the industry.
Guy Platten, secretary-general at the International Chamber of Shipping, expressed concern over the impact of cyberattacks on the shipping sector, stating that the international rules-based order that has benefited the industry since WWII is under threat. Industry experts warn that the maritime sector is not adequately prepared for cyber threats, with low IT spend and a shortage of professionals with maritime and cybersecurity knowledge.
As cyberattacks continue to increase across industries worldwide, the shipping sector must prioritize cybersecurity measures to protect against potential threats. With the rise of technology and automation, organizations need to focus on data organization and connectivity to enhance their cybersecurity defenses and make informed decisions in the face of evolving cyber threats.
