Maritime & Ports OT Cybersecurity

"Maritime and port operations face unique cyber threats targeting vessel navigation systems, cargo handling automation, and supply chain logistics - risks that can disrupt global trade and compromise maritime safety."

Maritime & Port Cyber Security Challenges

Safety of Life at Sea, Cargo Security and Supply Chain Continuity are paramount for maritime operations.

Maritime and port operations depend on integrated systems spanning vessel navigation and propulsion, cargo handling cranes and automated guided vehicles (AGVs), terminal operating systems (TOS), and supply chain coordination platforms. Modern vessels rely on GPS, electronic chart display and information systems (ECDIS), engine controls, and ballast management - all increasingly connected and vulnerable to cyber threats.

The sector faces distinctive challenges: vessels operate in international waters under multiple regulatory jurisdictions, port facilities handle thousands of containers daily with complex logistics coordination, crew members rotate frequently with varying cybersecurity awareness, and legacy maritime systems were designed without security considerations.

With IMO Resolution MSC.428(98) requiring maritime cyber risk management integration into Safety Management Systems (SMS) by 2021, and increasing incidents of GPS spoofing, ECDIS malware, and ransomware targeting shipping companies, the maritime industry must implement robust cybersecurity programs.

Maritime Threat Landscape

Sector-Specific Threats

GPS spoofing and jamming affecting vessel navigation and positioning systems
ECDIS malware compromising electronic navigation charts and collision avoidance
Ransomware attacks on shipping companies disrupting cargo operations and vessel scheduling
Port automation system breaches affecting crane operations and container handling
Supply chain data theft targeting cargo manifests and shipping schedules
Ballast water management system manipulation risking vessel stability

Operational Consequences

Navigation system failures creating collision risks and maritime safety incidents
Port terminal shutdowns disrupting global supply chains with massive economic impact
Vessel propulsion or steering system compromises endangering crew and cargo
Cargo handling delays causing schedule disruptions and contractual penalties
IMO compliance violations and Port State Control detentions
Environmental incidents from compromised ballast or fuel management systems

Maritime & Port Systems We Secure

Vessel Navigation

ECDIS, GPS/GNSS, radar systems, automatic identification systems (AIS), voyage data recorders (VDR), and integrated bridge systems.

Propulsion & Machinery

Engine control systems, propulsion controls, power management, ballast water management, and vessel automation platforms.

Cargo Handling

Ship-to-shore cranes, automated stacking cranes, automated guided vehicles (AGVs), and cargo securing systems.

Terminal Operations

Terminal operating systems (TOS), gate automation, yard management, and container tracking providing end-to-end cargo visibility.

Port Security Systems

CCTV surveillance, access control, perimeter intrusion detection, and ISPS code compliance systems protecting port facilities.

Supply Chain Integration

Cargo documentation systems, customs integration, vessel scheduling, and logistics coordination platforms.

Maritime Cyber Risk Management

IMO-Aligned Security Framework

For maritime operators and port facilities, OTFIELD provides cybersecurity programs aligned with IMO Resolution MSC.428(98) requirements to address maritime cyber risks within Safety Management Systems (SMS) and the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code.

We understand maritime operational realities: vessels operate globally with diverse crews, port facilities coordinate complex logistics across stakeholders, connectivity is limited and expensive at sea, and legacy systems dominate bridge and engine room environments. Our approach delivers practical security within these constraints.

IMO Cyber Risk Integration

Phase 1: Maritime Cyber Risk Assessment

Objective: Identify cyber risks to vessel safety and port operations per IMO guidelines

Identify cyber-physical systems critical to safe vessel operation (navigation, propulsion, steering)
Assess risks to bridge systems including ECDIS, GPS, radar, and AIS
Evaluate port automation vulnerabilities (cranes, AGVs, terminal systems)
Review vessel-shore connectivity and crew access to operational systems
Assess supply chain integration points and data exchange security
Consider threat scenarios relevant to maritime operations (GPS spoofing, malware infection via USB)

This assessment integrates maritime cyber risks into existing Safety Management Systems as required by IMO.

Phase 2: Maritime Security Implementation

Objective: Implement controls protecting vessel and port operations while meeting regulatory requirements

Regulatory Framework:

IMO Resolution MSC.428(98) - Maritime cyber risk management in SMS
BIMCO Guidelines on Cyber Security Onboard Ships - Industry best practices
ISPS Code - International Ship and Port Facility Security Code
IEC 61162 - Maritime navigation and radiocommunication equipment
NIST Cybersecurity Framework - Risk-based security approach

Maritime-Specific Controls:

Bridge system protection (ECDIS, GPS, radar network segmentation)
Vessel network security isolating navigation, propulsion, and cargo systems
Removable media controls for charts, software updates, and crew devices
Satellite communication security for VSAT and Fleet Broadband
Port facility access controls and terminal operating system security
Crew cybersecurity awareness training for maritime-specific threats
Incident response procedures for maritime cyber events
Vendor and shore-based support access management
Backup and recovery for critical navigation and automation systems

Comprehensive Maritime Protection

We provide tailored security for both vessel operations and port facilities:

Vessel Cybersecurity

Bridge systems and navigation equipment protection
Engine room and machinery control security
ECDIS and electronic navigation security
Satellite communication and crew network security
SMS integration per IMO requirements

Port Facility Security

Terminal operating system protection
Cargo handling automation security
Gate and yard management system security
ISPS Code compliance for port facilities
Supply chain integration security

Maritime Industry Success Factors

Maritime operators and port facilities must address these critical considerations:

Can we integrate cyber risk management into existing Safety Management Systems?
How do we protect legacy bridge systems that cannot be easily upgraded?
Are we prepared for GPS spoofing and navigation system attacks?
Can we secure vessel-shore connectivity without impacting crew operations?
How do we maintain port operations security during 24/7 cargo handling?
Do our crews understand maritime-specific cyber threats and procedures?

Success requires practical approaches suited to maritime environments while protecting safety of life at sea.

Regulatory & Standards Landscape

IMO Resolution MSC.428(98) - Maritime cyber risk management in Safety Management Systems
BIMCO Guidelines - Cyber security onboard ships industry best practices
ISPS Code - International Ship and Port Facility Security Code
IEC 61162 - Maritime navigation and radiocommunication equipment standards
NIST Cybersecurity Framework - Risk-based approach for critical infrastructure

Protect Maritime Safety. Secure Port Operations.

Maritime operators and port facilities cannot risk cyber incidents that compromise navigation safety, disrupt cargo operations, or violate IMO requirements. Discover practical security solutions for the unique challenges of maritime environments.

Get Free 30-Minute Consultation

Navigate Safely. Operate Securely.

SECURING MARITIME & PORT OPERATIONS