Cyber Risks in Dutch Seaports: A Growing Concern

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  • Collaborative Cyber Strategy Launched for Dutch Seaports.
  • FERM Foundation Expands to National Cybersecurity Platform.
  • BOZ and Partners Unite to Strengthen Port Resilience.

Digital threats are increasingly threatening nautical and logistical operations in Dutch seaports. In response to the urgency of these risks, the Seaports Trade Organisation (Brancheorganisatie Zeehavens, BOZ), the Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management, and the National Coordinator for Counterterrorism and Security (NCTV) have collectively developed the Cyber Strategy for Dutch Seaports, reports Container News.

FERM Foundation Expands to a National Cybersecurity Platform

As part of this strategy, FERM Foundation—operating up until now in Rotterdam and Moerdijk ports—will develop into the national cybersecurity platform for all Dutch seaports under the BOZ umbrella. On 10 December, a partnership agreement was signed formalizing this change.

Improving Resilience of All Ports in the Netherlands

With digital threats escalating daily, cyber incidents have the potential to disrupt the interconnected supply chain severely. To mitigate these risks, port authorities united under BOZ, including Groningen Seaports, North Sea Port, the Port of Rotterdam, the Port of Moerdijk, and the Port of Amsterdam, will collaborate with local businesses to enhance the cybersecurity of the entire port ecosystem.

Building on FERM’s Achievements

FERM was established in 2021. It has contributed to the Port of Rotterdam in promoting the collaboration of companies, raising the awareness of cyber risks, and striving to make it the most digitally secure port worldwide. The expanded FERM platform will now bring its expertise to other Dutch seaports, reinforcing their digital security frameworks.

Leadership Insights on the Importance of Cybersecurity

Boudewijn Siemons, Chair of BOZ and CEO of the Port of Rotterdam Authority commented: “Cybersecurity is critical to the continuity and security of our ports. At a time when digital threats are becoming more sophisticated, we must take proactive and concerted action to protect our infrastructure and operations. Only by working together can we strengthen the resilience of our ports and prepare for the challenges of the future. It’s great that the seaports have come together on this issue and we all realise just how hugely important it is. Together we will build on what FERM has already achieved in recent years.”

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Source: Container News