Researchers from the Singapore Management University, including Meixuan Li, Jianying Zhou, Sudipta Chattopadhyay, and Mark Goh, have published a comprehensive review of maritime cybersecurity, highlighting the critical intersection of technological advancement and cybersecurity in the maritime industry. The study aims to identify significant domains of maritime cybersecurity and evaluate their effectiveness, providing an in-depth analysis of threats in key maritime systems and exploring real-world cyber incidents that have impacted the sector.
The review presents a multi-dimensional taxonomy of maritime cyber attacks, offering insights into threat actors, motivations, and impacts. The researchers have evaluated various security solutions, ranging from integrated solutions to component-specific measures, to address the evolving cyber threats in the maritime ecosystem. The study covers critical maritime systems such as the Automatic Identification System (AIS), Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS), Electronic Chart Display and Information System (ECDIS), Voyage Data Recorder (VDR), RADAR, Very Small Aperture Terminal (VSAT), and Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS).
By addressing these critical issues and their interconnected aspects, the review aims to foster a more resilient maritime ecosystem. The researchers have also shared open challenges and future solutions, providing a roadmap for enhancing cybersecurity measures in the maritime industry. The supplementary section of the study presents definitions and vulnerabilities of vessel components discussed in the survey, offering a comprehensive understanding of the cybersecurity landscape in the maritime sector.
This research underscores the importance of robust cybersecurity measures in safeguarding the maritime industry’s digital assets and interconnected components. As the maritime sector continues to embrace technological advancements, the need for proactive and adaptive cybersecurity strategies becomes increasingly paramount. The insights and recommendations provided in this review can guide industry stakeholders, policymakers, and cybersecurity professionals in building a more secure and resilient maritime ecosystem. Read the original research paper here.