Most cyber attacks are targeted at people rather than IT infrastructure, to the extent the human factor is now widely considered the biggest risk in cyber security at sea. Training provider Seagull Maritime has acknowledged this and notes it is essential to have a contingency plan in place if a tanker and/or the operators IT infrastructure is compromised.
An awareness of cyber security is one of the key revisions to OCIMFs latest Vessel Inspection Questionnaire (VIQ). OCIMF is a key driving force in the development of safety rules and regulations in the tanker and offshore industry.
OCIMF is now checking that cyber security awareness is actively promoted by the shipping company and crew on board. In the VIQ, training films and crew-specific training are discussed as valid methods to promote cyber security awareness. The responsible use of social media is also highlighted in the new section, demonstrating its importance in today’s maritime industry.
Seagull Maritime promotes training on cyber security and social media through an e-learning platform.
With the VIQ…
