Threats and Impacts in Maritime Cyber Security

In an increasingly connected and technologically dependent world, new areas of vulnerability are emerging. This article explores the unique challenges of maritime cyber security in order to better understand the issues with securing vessels at sea, together with the shore based infrastructure supporting this industry. In particular, this article explores the cyber-attacks possible on maritime-related systems for navigation, propulsion, and cargo-related functions. The authors illustrate the potential severity of the problem by providing several scenarios to demonstrate the attacks possible once a vessel has been compromised and their attendant consequences.