Safeguarding Marine Terminals from Cyber Threats: IT vs. OT in the Age of Industry 4.0

February 10, 2025 CYBER SECURITYGENERALMaritime Safety NewsRegulation

As Industry 4.0 continues to redefine operations, the lines between Information Technology (IT) and Operational Technology (OT) systems are increasingly blurred. Marine terminals now face unique cybersecurity risks to both types of systems, each requiring tailored defenses.

IT Systems: Protecting Data and Networks

IT systems manage critical business data and communication infrastructure. Cybersecurity risks for IT systems include malware, phishing attacks, and data breaches. Employing strong network security protocols, regular software updates, and staff training are essential for safeguarding sensitive data.

OT Systems: Securing Operational Processes

OT systems, which control equipment and automation at marine terminals, face distinct risks. These include attacks on Industrial Control Systems (ICS) and vulnerabilities in legacy systems. Protecting OT involves ensuring real-time monitoring, regular upgrades, and physical security to prevent unauthorized access.

Best Practices for Marine Terminals:

  • For IT systems: Implement multi-factor authentication, regularly update software, and train employees to spot phishing attempts.
  • For OT systems: Maintain an inventory of all assets, update outdated systems, and ensure secure remote access.

With both IT and OT systems now interconnected, a unified approach to cybersecurity is crucial. Protecting these systems is not just about safeguarding data but also ensuring the continued safe operation of critical infrastructure.

Cybersecurity in Maritime Critical Infrastructure: Reflection on African Ports (CRIMSON III)

February 10, 2025 CYBER SECURITYGENERALMaritime Safety NewsRegulation

Modern commercial ports are a critical infrastructure which is highly dependent on information systems. The security of a port thus relies on the integrity of both physical and cyber assets. Despite evidence that ports are becoming targets for hackers, whose attacks can affect both cyber and physical assets and halt operations, too many ports have inadequate cybersecurity. Physical threats, incidents, and accidents to the physical assets (e.g., terminals, gates, buildings) of the maritime infrastructures or cyber threats and attacks to the cyber assets (e.g., Port Community Systems, navigation systems) can jeopardise the maritime operations, disrupt supply chains and destroy international trade and commerce.

 

https://rusieurope.eu/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/cybersecurity-in-maritime-critical-infrastructure-crimson-report-english.pdf

Recent IMO Decisions: Key Headlines

February 10, 2025 IMOMaritime Safety News

  • IMO Adopts Revised Action Plan to Combat Marine Plastic Litter
    On February 6, 2025, the International Maritime Organization’s Sub-Committee on Pollution Prevention and Response agreed on the draft 2025 Action Plan to Address Marine Plastic Litter from Ships. The plan is set for approval by the Marine Environment Protection Committee in April 2025.

    imo.org
  • Nine Countries Join IMO’s GreenVoyage2050 Program
    Announced on February 6, 2025, nine nations have been selected as partners for the IMO’s GreenVoyage2050 program, which supports the implementation of the 2023 IMO Greenhouse Gas Strategy.

    imo.org
  • IMO Secretary-General Urges Enhanced Efforts to Reduce Shipping Emissions
    In October 2024, IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez called for increased action from the shipping industry to cut carbon emissions, emphasizing the need for immediate and comprehensive measures to meet the IMO’s emission reduction targets.

    apnews.com
  • IMO Mandates Reporting of Containers Lost at Sea
    Starting January 1, 2026, the IMO will require mandatory reporting of all containers lost at sea, aiming to enhance maritime safety and environmental protection.

    worldshipping.org
  • IMO Condemns Attacks on Ships in the Red Sea
    In May 2024, the IMO’s Maritime Safety Committee adopted a resolution condemning attacks on vessels in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, calling for an immediate end to these “illegal and unjustifiable” actions.

    hellenicshippingnews.com

Maritime Industry News Highlights: February 7–10, 2025

February 10, 2025 Maritime Safety News

Shipbuilding and Deliveries

  • Fincantieri Delivers LNG-Powered Cruise Ship to TUI Cruises: Fincantieri has handed over the first of two low-carbon cruise ships to TUI Cruises. The vessel is powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG), marking a significant step toward sustainable cruising.
    marinelink.com

Market Trends

  • South Korea Leads in January Shipbuilding Orders: South Korean shipyards secured orders totaling 900,000 compensated gross tons (CGT) for 13 ships in January, accounting for 62% of global orders. This surge is attributed to contracts for LNG dual-fuel container ships.
    marinelink.com
  • Decline in Ship Recycling Prices Anticipated: The ship recycling market is experiencing downward pressure on prices due to ongoing tariffs and counter-tariffs. Industry experts predict a continued decline in the first half of 2025.
    marinelink.com

Environmental Initiatives

  • Canadian and European Ports Collaborate on Energy Transition: Canada’s Halifax Port Authority has announced an investment of up to $17 million, including $15 million dedicated to developing the Halifax-Hamburg green shipping corridor, aiming to enhance sustainable maritime practices.
    maritime-executive.com

Regulatory and Political Developments

  • Trump Administration Plans 25% Tariffs on Steel and Aluminum Imports: The U.S. government has announced intentions to impose a 25% tariff on all steel and aluminum imports, including those from Mexico and Canada, potentially impacting shipbuilding and repair costs.
    maritime-executive.com

Security and Incidents

  • Tanker Explosion at Russian Port of Ust-Luga: A tanker suffered an engine room explosion at the Russian port of Ust-Luga. Investigations are ongoing to determine the cause and assess the impact on port operations.
    maritime-executive.com

Enhancing Maritime Cybersecurity: The Critical Role of OT Inventory for Ships

February 10, 2025 CYBER SECURITYGENERALMaritime Safety NewsRegulation

🔒 Strengthening Maritime Cybersecurity: The Importance of OT Inventory for Ships 🚢

With evolving cybersecurity regulations like the IMO’s MSC-FAL.1/Circ.3 and upcoming EU NIS2 Directive, ships must enhance their Operational Technology (OT) security to prevent cyber threats. A crucial step in compliance and risk mitigation is maintaining an accurate OT inventory.

📌 Why is OT Inventory Important?

✔ Regulatory Compliance – Authorities require clear documentation of OT assets onboard.
✔ Vulnerability Management – Knowing what systems exist helps identify security risks.
✔ Incident Response – A complete inventory speeds up recovery from cyber incidents.
✔ Network Segmentation – Mapping OT systems helps separate critical assets from IT networks.

🔹 How to Build an Effective OT Inventory?

✅ Identify & Categorize – List all OT systems (e.g., ECDIS, VDR, engine control, ballast systems).
✅ Document Connectivity – Map each device’s network connections to spot potential weak points.
✅ Assess Cyber Risks – Regularly evaluate vulnerabilities and update security measures.
✅ Monitor & Update – Keep inventory updated to reflect new installations or modifications.

🌍 Take Action Now!
With cyber threats rising in maritime operations, a well-managed OT inventory is a key first step to ensuring compliance and safeguarding your vessel. Start today to protect your fleet from cyber risks!

Maritime Cybersecurity Alert: Surge in Threats and New Protective Measures

February 10, 2025 CYBER SECURITYMaritime Safety NewsRegulation

Recent reports indicate a significant escalation in cyber threats targeting the maritime industry. Marlink’s Security Operations Center observed a sharp increase in malicious activities during the first half of 2024, with over 23,400 malware detections and 178 ransomware incidents. Phishing remains the primary method attackers use to breach corporate networks, and there’s a notable rise in sophisticated botnet attacks leveraging AI to target IoT devices.

marinelog.com

In response to these growing threats, the International Maritime Cyber Security Organisation (IMCSO) has been established. This non-profit entity aims to standardize cybersecurity risk assessments across the maritime sector. IMCSO offers certification programs for security consultants and maintains a professional register to assist shipping organizations in selecting qualified personnel. Additionally, it will validate and standardize report outputs, storing them in a central database accessible to authorities and third parties for assessing vessel risk.

seatrade-maritime.com

These developments underscore the critical importance of robust cybersecurity measures in maritime operations. Organizations are urged to stay vigilant, update their security protocols, and invest in advanced threat detection capabilities to safeguard their operations against evolving cyber threats.

Stay Ahead: Key Maritime Rules & Compliance Deadlines for 2025-2026

February 10, 2025 Maritime Safety NewsRegulation

Regulation Jan 2025 Feb 2025 Mar 2025 Apr 2025 May 2025 Jun 2025 Jul 2025 Aug 2025 Sep 2025 Oct 2025 Nov 2025 Dec 2025 2026
IMDG Code Amendments 🟢
IMSBC Code Amendments 🟢
STCW Electronic Certificates 🟢
MARPOL Annex I & V (Red Sea & Gulf of Aden) 🟢
Ballast Water Record Book (BWM Convention) 🟢
Mediterranean SOx Emission Control Area 🟢
Hong Kong Ship Recycling Convention 🟢
MARPOL Annex VI – Low-Flashpoint Fuels & Reporting 🟢
Electronic Ballast Water Record Books 🟢
More 2026 Regulations 🔵

🟢 = Regulation comes into force
🔵 = Future regulations for 2026 and beyond

1. International Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMDG) Code Amendments (42-24)

  • Effective Date: January 1, 2025
  • Key Changes:
    • Enhanced classification and handling protocols for lithium batteries, including new entries for lithium-powered vehicles.
    • Stricter regulations for the transport of charcoal and carbon products to mitigate fire risks.
    • Introduction of guidelines for sodium-ion batteries, aligning them with existing safety standards.
  • Reference: Marine Mirror

2. International Maritime Solid Bulk Cargoes (IMSBC) Code Amendments (07-23)

  • Effective Date: January 1, 2025
  • Key Changes:
    • Mandatory declaration of bulk density by shippers, as per SOLAS regulation XII/10.
    • Addition of new cargo entries, including baryte and brown fused alumina, each with specific handling requirements.
    • Reclassification of certain cargoes, such as stabilized fish meal, to non-dangerous goods, simplifying certification processes.
  • Reference: Maritime Cyprus

3. Amendments to the Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping (STCW) Convention

  • Effective Date: January 1, 2025
  • Key Changes:
    • Authorization for the issuance of electronic seafarer certificates, specifying minimum information requirements.
    • Guidelines provided for the use and acceptance of electronic certificates to support global digitalization efforts.
  • Reference: Maritime Cyprus

4. MARPOL Annex I and V Amendments – Red Sea and Gulf of Aden Special Areas

  • Effective Date: January 1, 2025
  • Key Changes:
    • Designation of the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden as Special Areas under MARPOL Annexes I and V, enforcing stricter discharge controls for oil, oily mixtures, and garbage.
    • Ships must comply with enhanced discharge regulations, including the prohibition of certain discharges unless specific conditions are met.
  • Reference: Maritime Cyprus

5. Ballast Water Management (BWM) Convention – Revised Ballast Water Record Book

  • Effective Date: February 1, 2025
  • Key Changes:
    • Implementation of a revised format for the Ballast Water Record Book to enhance clarity and address common deficiencies.
    • Ships are required to adopt the new record-keeping format to improve compliance during inspections.
  • Reference: Maritime Cyprus

6. Mediterranean Sea Emission Control Area (ECA) for Sulphur Oxides (SOx)

  • Effective Date: May 1, 2025
  • Key Changes:
    • Enforcement of a 0.10% m/m sulphur content limit for fuel oil used by ships operating within the Mediterranean Sea ECA.
    • Alternatively, ships may use approved exhaust gas cleaning systems (EGCS) to meet the emission requirements.
  • Reference: Gard’s Insights

7. Hong Kong International Convention for the Safe and Environmentally Sound Recycling of Ships

  • Effective Date: June 26, 2025
  • Key Changes:
    • Requirement for ships over 500 GT engaged in international voyages to maintain an Inventory of Hazardous Materials (IHM).
    • Ships must be recycled at authorized facilities that comply with the convention’s safety and environmental standards.
  • Reference: Gard’s Insights

8. MARPOL Annex VI Amendments – Low-Flashpoint Fuels and Data Reporting

  • Effective Date: August 1, 2025
  • Key Changes:
    • Clarification of regulations concerning gas and low-flashpoint fuels, including updated definitions and bunker delivery note requirements.
    • Reclassification of replacing steam systems with marine diesel engines as major conversions, necessitating compliance with emission standards.
    • Enhanced fuel consumption data reporting requirements, including total onshore power supplied and transport work metrics.
  • Reference: Maritime Cyprus

9. Ballast Water Management (BWM) Convention – Electronic Record Books

  • Effective Date: October 1, 2025
  • Key Changes:
    • Authorization for the use of electronic Ballast Water Record Books, aligning with practices under MARPOL Annexes and the NOx Technical Code.
    • Guidelines provided for the implementation and use of electronic record-keeping systems.
  • Reference: [Maritime Cyprus](https://maritimecyprus.com/2024/11

 

SHIPIP INVENTORY OF HAZARDOUS MATERILA MAINTENANCE

erb-electronic-record-boogs-logb.png

Paper Traditional Log Books Versus Electronic Record Books (ERB)

February 10, 2025 ERB (Electronic Record Books)

Cost-Benefit Analysis: Transitioning from Paper Logbooks to Electronic Record Books (ERB)

This analysis estimates the financial impact of switching from traditional paper logbooks to an Electronic Record Book (ERB) system for a fleet.

1. Current Cost of Paper Logbooks (Per Ship)

Category Estimated Cost (€) Per Year
Purchase of Logbooks (10–20 per ship) €1,000 – €3,000
Administrative Time (Manual entries, corrections, audits) €2,000 – €5,000
Storage & Archiving (Physical space, compliance retention) €500 – €1,500
Regulatory Fines (Errors, missing logs, late submissions) €1,000 – €5,000
Total Estimated Annual Cost (Per Ship) €4,500 – €14,500

2. Cost of Implementing ERB (Per Ship)

Category Estimated Cost (€) Per Year
ERB Software License & Maintenance €2,000 – €5,000
Hardware (Tablet/PC for logging) €500 – €1,500
Training for Crew & Officers €500 – €2,000
IT Support & Compliance Updates €500 – €1,500
Total Estimated Annual Cost (Per Ship) €3,500 – €10,000

 

3. Estimated Savings Per Ship

Savings Category Estimated Annual Savings (€)
Reduction in Logbook Purchases €1,000 – €3,000
Less Administrative Work (Faster logging, fewer corrections) €2,000 – €5,000
Reduced Storage & Archiving Costs €500 – €1,500
Fewer Regulatory Fines (Automated compliance & reports) €1,000 – €5,000
Total Estimated Savings Per Ship €4,500 – €14,500

 

4. Fleet-Wide Impact (Example for a Fleet of 10 Ships)

Scenario Annual Savings Per Ship (€) Total Fleet Savings (€) (10 Ships)
Low Estimate €4,500 €45,000
High Estimate €14,500 €145,000

👉 A shipping company operating 10 vessels could save between €45,000 and €145,000 annually by switching to ERB.

Additional Benefits of ERB

✅ Regulatory Compliance: Reduces risk of non-compliance with IMO, MARPOL, SOLAS, and flag state requirements.
✅ Automation & Digital Storage: Instant retrieval, digital signatures, and remote monitoring.
✅ Environmental Impact: Less paper consumption, contributing to sustainability goals.
✅ Improved Accuracy: Minimizes human errors and fraud risks.

 

New EU rules aiming to decarbonise the maritime sector take effect

February 3, 2025 decarbonizing

More renewable and low-carbon fuels will help reduce carbon emissions and air pollution from the EU maritime sector, following the entry into force of the FuelEU Maritime Regulation as of 1 January 2025. The Regulation supports the transition towards a more sustainable transport sector, by mandating the gradual uptake of renewable and low-carbon fuels and the use of onshore power supply in ports from 2030 onwards.

The FuelEU Maritime Regulation sets a requirement to lower the greenhouse gas (GHG) intensity of the energy used on board by all ships above 5,000 gross tonnages calling at EU ports, regardless of the flag they fly. The annual average reduction in GHG intensity will gradually increase over time starting from -2% in 2025 to -80% in 2050 compared to the average in 2020.

The Regulation offers flexibility in choosing the right technologies, fuels, and business models for compliance. It includes a pooling mechanism to help fleets develop effective compliance strategies and to reward early adopters for investing in the energy transition.

Zero-emission requirements for passenger ships and container ships at berth are also included. The Regulation mandates the use of on-shore power supply (OPS) or alternative zero-emission technologies, from 1 January 2030 in EU ports covered by the Alternative Fuels Infrastructure Regulation (AFIR), and, from 1 January 2035 in all EU ports equipped with OPS facilities.

Next steps

From 1 January 2025, companies have to monitor the energy used on board their ships during EU related voyages and stays at EU ports. By 31 January 2026, companies will have to submit the so-called FuelEU Report to their selected verifier that is in charge of overseeing monitoring and reporting activities related to the Regulation. This will serve as the basis of the calculations to determine whether the ship complied with the GHG intensity reduction targets in 2025.

Background

To reduce greenhouse gas emissions from transport by 90% by 2050, the EU is working to decarbonise the maritime sector through measures like the FuelEU Maritime Regulation, the extension of the EU Emission Trading System (ETS) to shipping, and the Alternative Fuel Infrastructure Regulation (AFIR). It is also collaborating with Member States to develop global measures at the International Maritime Organization (IMO).

To help scaling up the production of renewable and low-carbon fuels in Europe, the Commission has dedicated EUR 20 million of EU Allowances to the maritime sector under the EU Innovation Fund. Horizon Europe devotes EUR 530 million for research and innovation through the Zero Emission Waterborne Transport Partnership. Beyond financing, the Renewable and Low-Carbon Fuels Industrial Alliance (RLCF) helps the industry advance the production and supply of clean fuels in the aviation and waterborne sectors.

Reporting of Lost Containers to Be Mandatory From 2026

February 3, 2025 Maritime Safety News

New rule changes adopted at the 108th session of the International Maritime Organisation’s maritime safety committee will result in the reporting of lost containers becoming mandatory from 1st January 2026.

The rule changes – which take the form of amendments to the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) – will mean that Masters involved in the loss of containers must immediately report specific details of the loss to nearby ships, the nearest coastal state, and the vessel’s flag state.

Additional information that must be provided includes the total number of lost containers, and if any containers contained dangerous goods.

Masters will also – voluntarily – be able to provide details about the sea conditions and more, should they wish.

Following the provision of information, it will then be up to the flag state to pass the data to the IMO via a new module in the Global Integrated Shipping Information System (GISIS).

The changes to SOLAS also cover requirements if drifting containers are observed. In this instance, the position and total number of drifting containers must be reported.

The amendments have been warmly welcomed by stakeholders across the maritime industry, perhaps most notably the World Shipping Council, which has been gathering lost container data from its members since 2008. This information has been published by the Council each year in their ‘Containers Lost at Sea’ report.

Commenting on the amendments to SOLAS, the World Shipping Council’s SVP Safety & Security, Lars Kjaer, said:

“The new regulations, specifically amending SOLAS Chapter V Regulations 31 and 32, mark a significant advancement in maritime safety and environmental protection. By ensuring prompt and detailed reporting of lost and drifting containers, these amendments will enhance navigational safety, facilitate swift response actions, and mitigate potential environmental hazards”.

The World Shipping Council’s Containers Lost at Sea report for 2024 (covering 2023), shows a decline in lost containers. 2023 saw 221 containers lost, compared to 661 in 2022. An impressive number when one considers that approximately 250 million containers were transported by sea last year. The report also highlights that of the containers lost, some 33% were recovered.

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