Maritime cyber attacks will get more sophisticated

Maritime and IT security companies have raised their concerns after hackers attacked the container terminal software in Antwerp in an effort to pinpoint the location of containers concealing smuggled drugs so they could deliver them to bogus drivers.

Nick Davis, CEO of maritime security company GoAGT (Gulf of Aden Group Transits), said: “Supply chain security in the future will be critical especially in the US and mainland Europe, the sheer volume of mega ships that can carry 14,000+ teu presents the biggest security challenge for any port authority and customs network.”

He added: “Sharing data with agencies that can stem illegal contraband, drugs, weapons and the like is a distant goal far from being achieved.”