BIMCO Compliant: What Does It Mean?
The Baltic and International Maritime Council (BIMCO) has developed guidelines to help ship owners protect their vessels and IT systems from cyber threats and digital attacks. BIMCO is a global trade organization representing shipping companies and ship owners. Countries like the UK, Greece, Singapore, the Netherlands, Germany, the US, Japan, China, and South Korea collaborate with BIMCO to ensure compliance with international maritime rules.

What Are BIMCO’s Cybersecurity Guidelines for Ships?

1. Cybersecurity Policy
   BIMCO recommends that ship owners and operators establish a cybersecurity policy. This policy should outline how the ship’s IT systems will be protected from cyber threats and how to handle any incidents that may arise.
2. Risk Assessment
   BIMCO emphasizes the importance of regular cybersecurity risk assessments. These assessments help identify and address potential risks and vulnerabilities in systems such as communication, navigation, electronic cargo documents, and payment transactions.
3. Preventive Measures
   To protect their systems, BIMCO advises ship owners to install firewalls, encrypt data, use strong authentication methods, and keep security updates up to date.
4. Training and Awareness
   Educating staff and crew on cybersecurity is crucial. Ship owners should ensure that their employees can recognize potential threats, such as phishing attacks, and know how to respond to various cybersecurity incidents.
5. Incident Management
   BIMCO recommends preparing a comprehensive plan for handling cyberattacks. This includes reporting incidents to the appropriate authorities, isolating affected systems, and restoring operations as quickly as possible.
6. Security for Suppliers
   Since ships often rely on third-party suppliers for IT services and equipment, BIMCO advises ensuring that these suppliers also meet cybersecurity requirements and implement adequate security measures.
7. Certification and Compliance
   BIMCO encourages shipping companies and ship owners to comply with international cybersecurity standards, such as the IMO Cybersecurity Code, and other relevant maritime regulations.

Why Is This Important?

BIMCO’s cybersecurity guidelines provide ship owners and operators with a robust framework for managing cyber risks. By following these guidelines, ships can reduce their vulnerability to cyberattacks and maintain safe and efficient operations.

For ship owners, using a BIMCO-certified IT platform ensures that your IT infrastructure meets the latest security standards and international cybersecurity regulations. This minimizes the risk of cyberattacks, operational downtime, and legal issues while strengthening trust with business partners and authorities. Additionally, it simplifies incident management and ensures compliance with maritime regulations.