- IAPH has issued new cybersecurity guidelines focused on managing risks tied to emerging technologies in ports.
- The guidelines stress early integration of cybersecurity, even for technologies not yet adopted by an organisation.
- They highlight the need for holistic risk assessments and tailored safeguards for technologies like drones, 5G, and automation.
- The report encourages education, training, and legislative updates to support long-term cyber resilience in the maritime supply chain.
As emerging technologies like AI, IoT, drones, and automation become more integrated into port operations, they bring opportunities and new cybersecurity risks. Recognising this, a dedicated working group under the International Association of Ports and Harbours (IAPH) Data Collaboration Committee has developed a fresh set of cybersecurity guidelines tailored for ports. With contributions from 28 experts, including members from IAPH, the World Bank, and the World Economic Forum, the guidelines explore how technologies such as quantum computing, 5G, and green energy can strengthen and challenge cyber resilience across the maritime supply chain. These efforts reflect a growing focus on preparing ports for the digital age, according to a report by SAFETY4SEA.
Key Principles for Cyber-Secure Adoption of Emerging Technologies in Ports
The newly released IAPH guidelines outline essential principles to ensure the safe integration of emerging technologies in the maritime supply chain. A core recommendation is to embed cybersecurity considerations early in the technology planning process, rather than reacting after vulnerabilities are exposed. The guidelines stress the importance of assessing risks even for technologies not directly adopted, as innovations like quantum computing may still impact existing systems.
Contrary to common misconceptions, non-IT systems, including green energy initiatives, require thorough cybersecurity evaluations due to potential vulnerabilities. The guidelines highlight the physical threats of cyberattacks, such as drone hijacking, and emphasise the need for holistic assessments when combining technologies like automation, which often depend on interconnected systems.
Organisations are encouraged to implement general and technology-specific protection strategies, such as specialised authentication for 5G networks. Emerging technologies can also enhance cybersecurity—AI can detect anomalies through behavioural analysis, and IoT devices can act as honeypots to monitor threats.
The guidelines further recommend integrating cybersecurity training into organisational and academic programs and call for collaboration on updating national and international legislation to reflect evolving cyber risks. According to IAPH managing director Patrick Verhoeven, this comprehensive effort responds to the top safety concern reported in the IAPH World Ports Tracker.
Did you subscribe to our Daily newsletter?
It’s Free! Click here to Subscribe!
Source: SAFETY4SEA
