BIMCO releases cybersecurity guidelines for ships

The following is the text of a news release from BIMCO:

(LONDON) — BIMCO, together with other leading shipping organizations, has today launched a set of guidelines to help the global shipping industry prevent major safety, environmental and commercial issues that could result from a cyber incident on board a ship.

The cyber guidelines launched today are a first for the shipping industry, developed by international shipping associations, comprising BIMCO, CLIA, ICS, Intercargo and Intertanko — and with support from a wide range of stakeholders. The "Guidelines on Cyber Security Onboard Ships" is free to download from the BIMCO website.

Angus Frew, secretary-general of BIMCO, said, “BIMCO has led the way to identify potential cyber vulnerabilities for ships — and their implications — based on the latest expert research. The aim is to provide the shipping industry with clear and comprehensive information on cybersecurity risks to ships, enabling shipowners to take measures to protect against attacks and to deal with the eventuality of cyber incidents.”

Cyber threats are changing all the time — and BIMCO and the other industry associations will regularly update the cyber guidelines to ensure shipping companies have the latest information available.

Frew added, “The guidelines launched today should help companies take a risk-based approach to cybersecurity that is specific to their business and the ships they operate.”

The guidelines are available for free at www.bimco.org.

By Professional Mariner Staff