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ABS expert warns of ransomware risk
Photo: ABS consulting
Ransomware continues to top the list of maritime cyber threats, according to Michael DeVolld (pictured), Senior Director of maritime cybersecurity at ABS consulting. Despite digital advances, the fundamental risk remains the same, he warns: "Ransomware continues to pose a major threat," disrupting ports and shipping operations worldwide. DeVolld stresses that as maritime systems integrate IT and operational technology (OT) for analytics and remote maintenance, the attack surface expands. Basic measures such as patching, limiting network access and using multi-factor authentication can still prevent most incidents.
He highlights underreporting as a major issue, noting that "not all incidents are reported". DeVolld adds that while it’s unlikely hackers could steer a vessel, weak remote access could still impact safety-critical systems. (js)