Cyber Security Consulting

In 1994, the International Maritime Organisation (IMO), within the SOLAS Convention, introduced the ISM Code in Chapter IX.

The ISM Code specifies the minimum requirements to ensure safety at sea in order to prevent accidents and damage to the maritime environment, mandating the establishment of a full-fledged Safety Management System for all ships flying the flag of a SOLAS state party.

In June 2017, the impact of cyber risks was significantly felt in the shipping industry worldwide following a hacker attack that rendered the computer systems of some companies in the sector inaccessible.

In response to these dangers, on 16 June 2017, the IMO adopted the recommendations contained in Resolution MSC.428(98) 'Maritime Cyber Risk Management in Safety Management Systems', through which it was stipulated that cyber risk assessment should be one of the objectives of the ISM Code, given that this risk is among those that may impact the safety of the ship, personnel and the environment.

In light of the IMO's determination, it is necessary to ensure that cyber risks are adequately identified, assessed and mitigated within the SMS and verified at the first annual Document of Compliance (DOC) review, after 1 January 2021.