What is a common challenge in maintaining cybersecurity for vessels at sea?

Maintaining cybersecurity for vessels at sea presents unique challenges, and a significant issue is indeed limited internet connectivity. At sea, vessels often operate in remote areas where high-speed internet access is not readily available. This scarcity of bandwidth can hinder the ability to implement robust cybersecurity measures, such as timely software updates, real-time monitoring, and effective communication with cybersecurity support teams.

Limited connectivity restricts the transmission of security data and logs, making it difficult for crews to respond to potential threats or breaches. It also affects the ability to maintain a current cyber defense posture, as vessels may not be able to regularly update their systems or apply patches that protect against known vulnerabilities. This challenge is compounded by the reliance on outdated systems and technologies that are prevalent in many maritime operations, making them more susceptible to cyberattacks.

In contrast, high bandwidth availability, overabundance of security staff, and excessive regulation compliance do not reflect the typical realities faced by maritime organizations. Vessels typically do not have abundant security personnel at sea due to the constrained nature of their operations, and while compliance with regulations is essential, it is not a core challenge connected to cybersecurity on an operational level. Therefore, limited internet connectivity is a critical aspect to consider when developing a cybersecurity strategy for maritime environments