Networked onboard IT brings the greater risk of unauthorised access or malicious attacks to ships’ systems. Personnel should be able to identify the typical modus operandi of cyber attacks, new industry guidelines say.
BIMCO, the International Chamber of Shipping (ICS) and the Ma[ds_preview]ritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA Singapore) have therefore launched a new cyber security awareness poster at Singapore Maritime Week 2017.
The poster provides basic information to shipboard personnel on their role and contribution to managing maritime cyber risks. It also highlights how staff need to be aware of how to respond effectively to cyber risks. The advice complements information provided on procedural protection measures also available in the industry Guidelines for Cyber Security Onboard Ships.
Information technology (IT) and operational technology (OT) onboard ships are increasingly being networked together and more frequently connected to the worldwide web, the Guidelines state. This brings the greater risk of unauthorised access or malicious attacks to ships’ systems and networks. Risks may also occur from personnel having access to the systems onboard, for example by introducing malware via removable media.
Giles Noakes Head of Maritime Security at BIMCO says: »Whilst shipboard personnel are one of the major cyber vulnerabilities, with improved basic awareness, they can contribute to ensuring that company approaches to managing cyber risks are effective. This poster provides all the information they need in a clear and accessible form.«
MPA Singapore will distribute the A3 size poster through their pilots for ships calling at Singapore ports. The poster will also be made available in an electronic format for download from the BIMCO and ICS websites for use by shipping companies.
