Maritime industry addresses cyber-physical risks and crew logistics

The maritime industry is facing increasing cyber-physical risks as ships and ports become more digitally connected. As information technology (IT) and operational technology (OT) converge, cyber incidents can transition from digital disruptions to physical consequences, such as the halting of cranes, terminal gate backups, or the loss of vessel positioning data. To address these vulnerabilities, IACS implemented Unified Requirements E26 and E27 on January 1, 2024, which mandate cyber resilience for new ship designs and onboard systems.

Beyond malware, physical disruption is also occurring through GNSS interference. The U.S. Coast Guard has reported instances of GPS jamming and spoofing in the Baltic, Red, and Arabian Seas, forcing crews to rely on terrestrial navigation.

In response to the need for better digital coordination, maritime technology provider SmartSea has launched SmartJourney and SmartAccess. These platforms aim to streamline crew transit and access management. SmartJourney integrates flight schedules and crewing rosters to manage logistics, while SmartAccess utilizes biometric units to verify credentials and permissions at terminals, gangways, and offshore facilities, ensuring compliance with safety standards like ISPS.