In a bid to address the cyber risks of emerging technologies that are being introduced to the Indian maritime industry, Indian Register of Shipping (IRClass) has developed class rules based on guidelines set by IMO, as well as appropriate standards, such as the National Institute of Standards and Technology – US Department of Commerce (NIST).
With the rise of cyber attacks on information and operational technology systems, cyber security is critical not only for data protection but also for safe and reliable operations, the classification society noted.
Cyber attacks on ship’s control systems, IT, navigational and other critical systems can result in damage or even losing course of the ship, which can have a negative impact on the safety of the ship, port facilities and marine property, explained Executive Chairman, Mr. Arun Sharma.
“As the industry continues to introduce new technologies, IRClass as a classification society, plays a significant role in ensuring that the safety of a vessel and its crew are not compromised by such attacks,” he added.
The implementation of these rules help IRClass to identify the cyber risk issues from as early as the design stage of the vessel. A final verification then takes place once the vessel is built, and periodically during annual surveys. A vessel, together with its shipping back office, that is certified for cyber safety is one that complies to the class rules, as well as additional class notation.
In addition to the class rules, IRClass has also developed the first edition of ‘Cyber Safety Guidelines for Port and Shipping Company Facilities’, a guide to safeguarding technology systems from internal and external cyber threats. These guidelines would help a company to identify gaps and mitigate risks and IRClass is in a position to offer end to end solutions.
