Inmarsat has introduced two new components to the firm's maritime cyber security service, Fleet Secure, as the company continues to develop solutions that combat ever-increasing cyber threats faced by ship owners and ship managers.

Vessel operators will benefit from a powerful, multi-layered endpoint security solution, Fleet Secure Endpoint, which is based on advanced technology from ESET, provider of digital security, and powered by Port-IT and protects desktop computers and other systems connected to a vessel’s network. 

Fleet Secure Endpoint has been developed to remove infections and thwart hackers before damage occurs to onboard endpoints and connected systems.  The solution will be available for commercial use from January 2019 and is compatible across Inmarsat’s maritime portfolio of services, including Fleet Xpress, FleetBroadband and Fleet One.  It also complements the Inmarsat’s own satellite and ground network enabling consistent cybersecurity standards to be maintained.

Inmarsat has also launched a training app for mobile devices, Fleet Secure Cyber Awareness.  This enables seafarers to educate themselves on the tactics that cyber criminals might employ in attempting to infiltrate a company’s IT infrastructure.

Executive Comment

Peter Broadhurst, SVP of Safety and Security for Inmarsat Maritime said, said that many attempts to gain unauthorized access to IT infrastructure require some sort of activation by an end-user in order to infect a system and cause further damage. These attacks are often heavily disguised so as to trick and manipulate end-users into unwittingly granting permission. It is a priority for every fleet operator and ship manager —  shore-side and at sea — to ensure their systems are properly protected. As this enhancement to Fleet Secure demonstrates, Inmarsat is constantly monitoring the ever changing cyber security landscape and devising new tools and approaches for addressing potential problems; ensuring that ships and their crew remain safe –physically and virtually.

“However, there are nearly always tell-tale signs that, if spotted in time, would prevent escalation. Crew education is therefore an indispensable component in realising a well-rounded security strategy and the reason behind teaming up with Stapleton International and Marine Learning Alliance to launch our Fleet Secure Cyber Awareness module.”