Maritime and IT security firms urge companies to protect their supply chain

Following a recent cyber-attack on container terminal software in Antwerp, Nick Davis of Gulf of Aden Group Transits has urged a greater focus on supply chain security in the maritime industry.

Hackers attacked the software in Antwerp in an attempt to locate a container concealing smuggled drugs so they could forward it to bogus drivers. The port detected the attack, but was not able to respond in time, meaning that the attackers achieved their objective.  Asserting that such instances are likely to get more sophisticated with time, Davis claimed that "the sheer volume of mega ships that can carry 14,000+ 20-foot equivalent unit (TEU) boxes presents the biggest security challenge for any port authority and customs network."

Bot Davis and Director of IT Security company MWR InfoSecurity argues that more advanced digital security systems were the answer to the security threat on the sea freight supply chain. "The chances of x-raying every container in every port is unfeasible and unworkable, Davis said.