Port Automation and Cyber Security Risks
“To stay ahead of competing ports and technological developments, automation has been heralded as inevitable. Major transshipment hubs and aspiring ports bet their future on automation, which raises the impact cyber risks could have in the long-run.”
- Container vessels on trade routes will inevitably increase in size.
- Requirements for higher handling efficiency in order to achieve fast turn-around times.
- By the end of 2018, ultra large container vessels (ULCVs) are expected to gain a share of
61 percent of total capacity.
- Established hubs will automate its terminals to stay relevant.
- Next generation container vessels will be bigger, increasingly automated and even autonomous.
- Ports and the shipping industry are integral parts of global and regional supply chain and automation and technological modernization raise the impact and potential of cyber risk.
Cyber Risks
Many insiders see the shipping industry and ports as underprepared for cyber threats. Though major players in the shipping industry have recognized and acted on the risks posed by cyber threats, the majority have been slow to recognize potential business risks. The need for better information sharing persists. Automation further increases the exposure and impact of cyber threats for ports, highlighting the importance of data and system integrity.
The reality of cyber threats to automated terminals was demonstrated in the “NotPetya” cyber attack in June 2017. The attack forced Maersk to interrupt operations at multiple terminals worldwide, causing logistical havoc for weeks after the attack. Overall, it cost Maersk roughly US$300 million, even though the attack was not specifically directed at the company. The “lucky hit” against one of the industry leaders showcases that even well-prepared firms can suffer financial losses due to cyber threats. While ports have to secure themselves from a broad range of risks, cyber criminals can choose from a number of entry points.
- External vendors, terminal operating systems, and unaware employees may be vulnerable to phishing attacks.
- Operational systems and data networks are not always up-to-date or properly secured, allowing criminals to gain comparatively easy access to information.
Renfinity’s Secure Grid Solutions for Ports
Since 2016, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) has put forward voluntary guideline regarding cyber risks. Renfinity’s Secure Grid provides the platform for ports and vendors need to work together and share information, so that experiences and best practices can be shared directly to secure supply chains and port hubs. Secure Grid’s solutions help companies to protect their organizations through technologies and best practices. We help you to:
- Cyber-secure networks with firewalls and stronger passwords, to deter criminals from trying to exploit current weaknesses
- Training employees in security protocols and procedures with information systems
- Secure integrated network devices including but not limited to cameras, video, intercoms, alarms, sensors,
- Create contingency and scenario plans for better preparations should attacks occur
And that's just the beginning. Take a moment to discover the Secure Grid products. We are committed to your satisfaction and welcome your feedback. We'll do all we can to make your Secure Grid experience a positive one.
About Renfinity, Inc. (www.renfinity.com)
Renfinity designs, manufactures and integrates asset management, wireless communication products and specialized industry solutions for organizations, its strength being specialized solutions that are highly integrated and scalable for asset management, access control and breach detection. .
Contact us for a Demonstration!!
Renee McCown – CEO and Founder
Davis Marshall – Business Develoment
Email: rmccown@renfinity.com Email: dmarshall@renfinity.com
Office: 732.241.2118 Office: 843.323.1685