What action should be taken immediately after identifying a cyber incident on a vessel?

Initiating the incident response plan is critical immediately after identifying a cyber incident because it provides a structured approach to manage the situation effectively. The incident response plan typically outlines specific steps to contain the breach, assess the extent of the damage, and recover any lost data or functionality. By following this plan, maritime personnel can minimize disruptions, protect vital systems, and gather necessary information to understand the incident's scope.

Containing the threat quickly helps prevent further compromise and allows for a thorough assessment, enabling the crew to respond efficiently without causing panic or escalating the situation. Additionally, a well-defined incident response plan often includes protocols for communication, coordination among team members, and engagement with relevant stakeholders, essential for effectively managing the incident.

While documenting the incident and notifying regulatory authorities are important parts of the broader response process, these steps should follow the immediate containment actions set forth in the incident response plan. Shutting down all systems, although it may seem prudent at first glance, could hinder ongoing operations and analysis needed to understand the incident fully.