CYBER SECURITY AS AN EMERGING NON-TRADITIONAL THREAT TO MARITIME SECURITY

Throughout the extensive chronicle of maritime operations, the shipping industry has encountered a congregation of physical hazards, inclusive of arm robbery, terrorism, cargo theft, piracy, cargo theft, drug smuggling, illicit trafficking, and harm or annihilation of consignment else the vessel. The maritime industry has encountered a novel challenge as form of a 'cyber safety threat' as an effect of the growing reliance on digitalization and technology. Until recently, the maritime sector has not encountered significant challenges with regards to cyber security for ships and ports. However, with the increasing integration of ships and their systems with the internet, the sector is now facing heightened vulnerability to cyber threats. The global community possesses extensive expertise in the reduction and prevention of such offences. However, the main concern is the “will” whether it is political will or legislative will to embark on such challenging yet fruitful task that would make the maritime sector the ideal trade mode.