In accordance with recent developments in information and communication technology, ships remain connected to the internet and continually share data between ship and shore. Ship data is monitored onshore using IoT, and electronic chart data is distributed from shore. Despite these benefits, there is a risk of becoming exposed to cyberthreats, such as becoming infected by malware.

With this in mind, the 98th session of the IMO Maritime Safety Committee (MSC98) approved guidelines on maritime cyber-risk management in June 2017. The committee recommended that a description of cyber-risk management be included in the safety management systems of shipowners and ship-management companies.

In 2017, NYK entered a strategic partnership with Dualog, and has been developing data-sharing between ship and shore, which is Dualog’s strong point. In fact, the two companies have launched a new Cepa Shield project that focuses on cybersecurity. (“Cepa” means onion in Latin.)

The cyber-risk management system developed by the Cepa Shield project will be able to be applied to all NYK-operated vessels and will provide multiple layers of risk management.

When a cyberattack comes from the outside, these features help NYK to grasp from shore the condition of each vessel against the attack. NYK can then remain aware of any ships subject to a concentrated attack and in need of immediate protection.

With the financial support of Innovation Norway over the next two years, the project will carry out trials on 50 NYK-operated vessels.

The NYK Group aims to create new value by taking advantage of digitalization in accordance with the company’s medium-term management plan “Staying Ahead 2022 with Digitalization and Green,” and strives to enhance transport safety, efficiency, and international competitiveness further.