The Human Factor in Cyber Maritime Security: Examining the Human Element in Cybersecurity Breaches and How to Improve Human Decision-Making to Prevent Cyber Incidents
Maritime cybersecurity has emerged as a critical concern in the shipping industry, with human factors playing a pivotal role in both creating vulnerabilities and fortifying defenses against cyber threats. As vessels become increasingly connected and reliant on digital systems, the potential for cybersecurity breaches has grown exponentially. Understanding the human element in these breaches and developing strategies to enhance human decision-making are crucial steps in preventing cyber incidents in the maritime sector.
Recent studies have highlighted the significance of human factors in maritime cybersecurity. Nganga et al. (2024) investigated domain-specific human factors influencing the adaptive response capabilities of Maritime Security Operations Center (M-SOC) analysts to vessel cyber threats. Their research underscores the importance of human adaptability in responding to evolving cyber risks in the maritime environment (Nganga et al., 2024).
Human error and lack of awareness remain significant contributors to cybersecurity vulnerabilities in the maritime sector. Dimakopoulou et al. (2024) conducted a comprehensive analysis of maritime cybersecurity, emphasizing the need to consider human factors in cybersecurity risk assessment methods. Their findings suggest that human-centric approaches are essential for developing robust maritime cybersecurity frameworks (Dimakopoulou et al., 2024).
The transition towards maritime autonomy presents both opportunities and challenges for cybersecurity. Palbar Misas et al. (2024) explored the future of maritime autonomy, focusing on cybersecurity, trust, and human factors. Their research indicates that while automation may reduce certain human-related risks, it also introduces new challenges in terms of trust and human-machine interaction (Palbar Misas et al., 2024).
To address the human factor in maritime cybersecurity, several strategies have been proposed:
Cybersecurity Awareness and Training Programs:
Implementing comprehensive cybersecurity awareness and training programs for maritime personnel is crucial. These programs should focus on educating staff about common cyber threats, best practices for security, and the potential consequences of security breaches. Regular updates and refresher courses are essential to keep pace with evolving threats (Maritime Executive, 2024).
Human-Centered Design of Maritime Systems:
Developing maritime systems with human factors in mind can significantly reduce the risk of human error leading to cybersecurity breaches. Potamos et al. (2024) proposed a blueprint for enhancing maritime cybersecurity through operational technology, emphasizing the need for user-friendly interfaces and intuitive security measures (Potamos et al., 2024).
Improving Decision-Making Processes:
Enhancing decision-making processes among maritime personnel is crucial for effective cybersecurity. This involves not only providing the necessary information and tools but also fostering a culture of critical thinking and risk assessment. Haugli-Sandvik et al. (2024) studied deck officers’ perception of cyber risks, highlighting the importance of understanding human behavior in developing precise tools for cyber risk mitigation strategies (Haugli-Sandvik et al., 2024).
Collaborative Approaches to Cybersecurity:
Encouraging collaboration between different stakeholders in the maritime industry can lead to more comprehensive and effective cybersecurity measures. Turner et al. (2024) emphasized the importance of understanding the exposure of the maritime industry to cyber adversaries and the impacts of computer security incidents on maritime operations (Turner et al., 2024).
Continuous Monitoring and Adaptation:
Given the dynamic nature of cyber threats, continuous monitoring of systems and human behavior is essential. Implementing adaptive security measures that can respond to changing threat landscapes and evolving human factors is crucial for maintaining robust cybersecurity in the maritime sector (Bolbot et al., 2022).
In conclusion, addressing the human factor in maritime cybersecurity requires a multifaceted approach that combines education, technology, and policy. By focusing on improving human decision-making, enhancing awareness, and fostering a culture of cybersecurity, the maritime industry can significantly reduce its vulnerability to cyber threats. As the sector continues to evolve with increasing digitalization and automation, the role of human factors in cybersecurity will remain a critical area of focus for researchers and practitioners alike.
References:
Bolbot, V., Theotokatos, G., Boulougouris, E., & Vassalos, D. (2022). A systematic literature review and bibliometric analysis of maritime cyber security: Preliminary results. Safety Science, 152, 105752.
Dimakopoulou, A., Kalogeraki, E. M., Papanikolaou, A., & Tsiknas, K. (2024). Comprehensive Analysis of Maritime Cybersecurity: Challenges, Solutions, and Future Directions. Journal of Marine Science and Engineering, 12(6), 919.
Haugli-Sandvik, M., Lunde, Ø. K., Bernsmed, K., & Frøystad, C. (2024). Understanding deck officers’ perception of cyber risks towards IT and OT systems on ships. International Journal of Information Security, 23(2), 259-277.
Maritime Executive. (2024). New Trends in Maritime Cybersecurity in 2024. Retrieved from https://maritime-executive.com/features/new-trends-in-maritime-cybersecurity-in-2024
Nganga, A., Barros, A., & Haavik, T. K. (2024). Enabling cyber resilient shipping through maritime security operations center (M-SOC) analysts’ adaptive capacity: A human factors perspective. Applied Ergonomics, 116, 104089.
Palbar Misas, J. D., Ahers, D., & Krüger, S. (2024). Future of maritime autonomy: cybersecurity, trust and human factors. Journal of Transportation Security, 17(1), 75-99.
Potamos, G., Tsiknas, K., Dimitriou, S., Trakadas, P., & Koulouras, G. (2024). Enhancing Maritime Cybersecurity through Operational Technology (OT) Blueprint: A Focus on Human Factors and Attack Surface Reduction. Sensors, 24(11), 3458.
Turner, A., Tam, K., & Moara-Nkwe, K. (2024). Editorial: The impacts of cyber threat in the maritime industry. Frontiers in Computer Science, 6, 1378160.
