High-profile owner and guest information is a top priority and needs to be completely protected. Cyber Security attacks are generally aimed at accessing/destroying sensitive information, or extorting and stealing money. Many yachts lack the most basic security measures and yet they need them the most. Here is some basic knowledge and a few tips you can easily implement:
Malware is an abbreviation of “malicious software”, which includes viruses, worms, trojans, spyware, and ransomware, and is the most common type of cyberattack.
A Man-in-the-Middle (MitM) attack involves intercepting the communication between two termini, for example, a user and an application. The attacker can steal sensitive data, eavesdrop, and impersonate each party participating in the communication – a scary thought!
Injection attacks insert malicious code into a web application. Successful attacks may expose sensitive information, execute a DoS attack or compromise the entire system.
- Remember that email is generally completely insecure. Never send anything commercially or financially sensitive via email, especially bank details, credit card numbers, etc.
- Never, ever click on any link in an email from an unknown source.
- Do not open attachments from anyone unless you are expecting them.
- Be mindful of the email source. Anyone’s email address can be spoofed (faked), so if a known contact suddenly sounds somehow different, then don’t be shy about checking that everything is ok and that it is them!
Data Leakage and hacking are two major problems in the modern-day working environment. Use these tips to ensure you do everything you can to mitigate falling victim to these:
- Use decent antivirus/security software.
- Be careful how you connect to Wi-Fi networks and use a VPN where possible
- Never, ever connect to an insecure public Wi-Fi network that does not require a password.
- Always stay updated on the latest version of the operating system
With the assistance of the International Maritime Organisation, vessels can mitigate threats by adhering to the Guidelines on Maritime Cyber Risk Management. The recommendations are complementary and can be easily incorporated into existing risk management processes.
Written by Virtual Pursers
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