Inmarsat launched its 2019 Superyacht Connectivity report highlighting that 80% of superyacht professionals are not fully aware on how to boost their cyber security measures, adding that some do not have a third-party organisation in charge of their security management on-board.
Specifically, Inmarsat surveyed captains, engineers and crew, also revealing that 67% of respondents do not have a third-party organisation in charge of their security management on-board.
Both the 2018 and 2019 reports confirm that 3G/4G is still the most popular onboard communication system.
In light of today’s development of digitalization, the risk of cyber attacks is increasing, threatening vessel systems, personal data and the IT infrastructure of a vessel.
However, although the industry makes great attempts to increase awareness on cyber security measures, the report reveals that the majority of key superyacht personnel assume that a standard anti-virus program will cover all their cyber security requirements.
Peter Broadhurst, senior vice president, Yachting and Passenger, Inmarsat stated
It is not expected that everyone on-board a superyacht is a cyber security expert, so it is up to us to take the lead in this critical issue and improve cyber resilience at sea.
Moreover, the report notes that 17% of respondents know the difference between Anti-Virus software and more secure endpoint protection.
Concerning onboard cyber security management 29% responded that the captain was responsible, 29% said the ETO was in charge and an 8% stated that no one was in charge of the cyber security measures onboard. Yet, 33% confirmed that a third-party organisation oversees their security.
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