BIMCO releases Guidelines on Cyber Security Onboard Ships

JANUARY 4, 2016 — Information technology (IT) and operational technology (OT) onboard ships are increasingly being networked together – and more frequently connected to the worldwide web, increasing the risk of unauthorized access or malicious attacks to ships’ systems and networks.

Responding to the increased cyber threat, BIMCO has today launched a set of guidelines to help the global shipping industry prevent major safety, environmental and commercial issues that could result from a cyber incident onboard a ship.

The Guidelines on Cyber Security Onboard Ships have been developed by the leading international shipping associations — BIMCO, CLIA, ICS, INTERCARGO and INTERTANKO — with support from a wide range of stakeholders. are free to download from the BIMCO website.

“BIMCO has led the way to identify potential cyber vulnerabilities for ships – and their implications – based on the latest expert research,” says Angus Frew, Secretary General of BIMCO. “The aim is to provide the shipping industry with clear and comprehensive information on cyber security risks to ships enabling shipowners to take measures to protect against attacks and to deal with the eventuality of cyber incidents.”

Cyber threats are changing all the time – and BIMCO and the other industry associations will regularly update the cyber guidelines to ensure shipping companies have the latest information available.”The guidelines launched today should help companies take a risk-based approach to cyber security that is specific to their business and the ships they operate,” says Mr. Frew.

Download the Cyber Security Guidelines HERE