“Modular Maritime Security Lab: The Innovative Solution to Shield Ships from Cyberthreats”

The rise in cyberattacks on industries and critical infrastructures is becoming a global issue. Among the targets are ships, which form part of international supply chains, transporting billions of tons of goods annually. Unfortunately, their onboard IT systems often lack secure protection, making them vulnerable to cyberattacks. To raise awareness of the risks of inadequate cybersecurity at sea and to develop defensive solutions for guarding against cyberattacks, the Maritime Cyber Security research group at the Fraunhofer Institute and the Fraunhofer Center for Maritime Logistics and Services have set up a modular maritime security lab.

With advanced networking technology required for the navigation, monitoring of goods, and communication needs of the crew, maritime systems become more vulnerable to cyberattacks. There are basically three different kinds of attacks conceivable – generic attacks, targeted attacks, and electronic warfare. The Maritime Cyber Security research group can simulate these kinds of cyber-physical attacks in a Maritime Security lab, with a true-to-life stationary ship’s bridge with all the tools and systems found at sea such as the bridge hardware, marine radio and AIS transceivers, radar unit, and the ECDIS.

To detect cyberattacks on ships early, the team designed a maritime intrusion detection system that automatically identifies anomalies and provides information and guidance to the crew over an ergonomic user interface. This Cyber Incident Monitor (CIM) will evaluate potential attacks and provides advice, such as not to trust the GPS for the time being, with audible warnings triggered only when urgent action is required.

The objective of the researchers is to raise awareness among companies, authorities, and nautical experts of the dangers of cyberattacks at sea and to develop protective measures. They aim to test and upgrade existing systems and provide research data to develop new solutions to establish a security-by-design approach. The researchers recommend that systematic prevention combined with effective methods for detecting potential cyberattacks offers the best protection from harm.

In summary, the Fraunhofer Maritime Cyber Security research group has created a modular maritime security lab to raise awareness and work with industrial partners to develop protective measures against cyberattacks at sea. With their research findings, they aim to prevent attacks and play a part in ensuring IT security and cybersecurity in global supply chains, which is essential to geopolitical security.