Are ports protected against cyber-attacks?

The maritime sector faces escalating cyber threats as criminals evolve rapidly, leveraging advanced tools and collaboration. Lluís Vera, CEO of Ackcent, emphasized during the Smart Ports event that combating cybercrime requires significant improvements in cybersecurity practices. Cyber resilience—defined as the ability to anticipate, resist, recover, and adapt to threats—is critical but dependent on robust cybersecurity measures. With only 40% of professionals citing sufficient investment in cybersecurity and a shortage of skilled personnel, the sector struggles to meet rising challenges. Stress and burnout exacerbate workforce shortages, and retraining efforts are underway to fill the gaps.

Artificial intelligence is both a tool and a challenge in this landscape. While it enhances detection and response, criminals also exploit its capabilities, requiring experts to balance its use effectively. Meanwhile, cyberattacks from nation-states, organized groups, and hackers, often financially motivated, continue to grow in sophistication.

New regulations, such as those by the International Maritime Organization, aim to bolster defenses. Although the fight against cybercrime is ongoing, strategic investments, skilled professionals, and advanced technologies offer hope for a more resilient future.