DGMA warns of cyber threats as ports automate operations
The Directorate General of Maritime Administration (DGMA) has issued an advisory warning that the automation of ports increases vulnerability to cyberattacks. The agency recommends that port authorities integrate cybersecurity risk assessments into their security protocols to ensure operational continuity.
Why it matters
As global supply chains become increasingly digitized, port security is critical to preventing economic disruption and infrastructure damage.
With ports increasingly adopting digital technologies and automation, cyber threats have emerged as a potential risk to maritime security and the continuity of port operations, the Directorate General of Maritime Administration (DGMA) has cautioned in a fresh advisory.
Referring to the International Ship and Port Facility Security Code, DGMA said the growing dependence of modern ports on interconnected information technology and operational technology systems had created new vulnerabilities that could adversely affect the safety, security and functioning of port facilities.
The advisory said terminal operating systems, cargo handling infrastructure, vessel traffic management systems, access control mechanisms, surveillance networks and communication systems among others were vulnerable to cyber risks.
Incidents of cyber attacks could result from unauthorised access, malware, ransomware attacks, insecure remote access arrangements, third-party access and compromise of interconnected systems, it said.
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