Maritime cyber attacks database launched

Created by a team led by Dr Stephen McCombie, Professor of Maritime IT Security, the database contains over 160 incidents, including location spoofing of NATO ships visiting Ukraine in the Black Sea in 2021.

“The simulated attack in Ukraine was all about provoking a reaction and so-called ‘deploying disruptive power’,” said Dr McCombie.

The database not only includes incidents affecting ships, but also ports and other maritime facilities from around the world. 

The research group expects that the database will help raise awareness of cyber security in the industry and provide data for further research and more accurate simulations in this critical area.

Peter Mulder, director of the ICT & Creative Technologies academy at NHL Stenden, said that the database aims at creating a safer world in which the Global Maritime Transportation System (GMTS) can respond to threats that will only increase in number and impact.

“With this public database, we are raising awareness of cyber incidents in the maritime sector and creating opportunities for further investigation by our research group, led by Stephen McCombie and our partners,” Mulder added.

One of the applications of the database is to develop simulations of maritime cyber incidents that are realistic and relevant, so that companies, organisations, and ports can prepare for attacks.

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The research group will also use the MCAD to produce reports and research papers showing trends and results of detailed analysis on subsets of the data.

 “The database is not a one-off but will be regularly updated and supplemented.