Cyber threats for cargo ships

Some of the biggest cyber risks cargo vessels face are related to cargo, business continuity, compliance, reputation, and environment. 

Protection of cargo

Cargo ships could carry valuable and sensitive goods, and cyber attacks can disrupt or disable critical systems, such as navigation or communication systems, leading to cargo theft or piracy. 

Business continuity

Cyber attacks can cause operational downtime and delays which result in significant financial losses. 

Compliance

Cargo ships are subject to various international regulations that require ship operators to implement security measures to protect the vessel and its cargo. Among these measures are requirements related to cybersecurity. 

Reputation

Like cruise ships, cargo ships also rely on their reputation for safety and reliability. Cyber attacks that disrupt cargo operations or cause a breach of cargo data can have a severe impact on the reputation of the shipping company, as well as the broader industry.

Environmental

Environmental safety is a critical consideration for cargo ships that carry hazardous materials, pollutants, and other dangerous cargo. In the event of a cyber attack that disrupts safety systems, such as the navigation and communication systems, there is a risk of a catastrophic environmental incident, which could result in significant harm to the marine ecosystem and human health.

Cybersecurity solutions for cargo ships

To manage and reduce these risks, operators of cargo ships can implement measures to increase cybersecurity. 

A comprehensive risk assessment can identify potential vulnerabilities and threats to the ship’s systems, including hardware, software, and communication networks. Furthermore, robust security policies and procedures should be implemented, and digital infrastructures should be better protected (leveraging for example multi-factor authentication, encrypted connections and regularly updating software and patching vulnerabilities).