The International Society of Automation (ISA) podcast, Podomation, curates and shares thoughtful conversations from top thought leaders in automation and industrial cybersecurity. Keep reading for a recap of one recent episode, Podomation 004 — Secure Seas: Navigating Maritime Cybersecurity.
What is Podomation?
Podomation is ISA's official podcast. Its guests are subject-matter experts representing many niches in the industrial automation community. The topics include industry 4.0, digital transformation, manufacturing and machine control, connectivity and cybersecurity for operational technology (OT) and continuous and batch processing.
Some episodes were recorded live during ISA events, and others were recorded in studio. Each episode focuses on the critical role that automation plays in making the world a better place, and all the ways our community generates an impact.
Podomation Episode 004
Navigating Maritime Cybersecurity
The landscape of maritime cybersecurity has evolved significantly, driven by current events, increasing digitization and the adoption of emerging technologies. These changes enhance operational capabilities, but also introduce vulnerabilities. Regulation and standards introductions have been pivotal in guiding the integration of cyber risk management into safety management systems onboard ships. However, a primary concern in maritime cybersecurity is OT systems, which are vital for the control and operation of physical shipboard processes.
Podomation 004 Panelists
- Sean Plankey, Global Head of Cybersecurity Software, Willis Towers Watson
- Michael DeVolld, Senior Principal Consultant, American Bureau of Shipping
- Kevin Duffy, CEO, Maritime Imperative
- Marco Ayala, President, Infragard Houston
The State of Maritime Cybersecurity
The global maritime trading system is a critical part of the modern economy, which also makes it vulnerable to cyberattacks. Threat actors attack ports or shipping at sea for ransom or with ideological motivations, attempting to profit from illicit activities or impose costs on adversaries. Asset owners therefore need assurance that shipyards can manage cybersecurity.
To manage maritime cybersecurity risks, the speakers discuss the importance of collaboration in an interconnected world. Frameworks and standards like the NIST Cybersecurity Framework and the ISA/IEC 62443 series of standards can be used to help assess risk and identify threat vectors.
Among wide-ranging topics on the state of maritime cybersecurity today, the speakers also highlight the complexities of coordinating incident response among multiple government agencies and industry entities as well as the importance of finding a balance between security and operational needs.
To hear the full discussion, including the speakers' thoughts on the maritime insurance perspective, regulatory efforts and more, visit www.isa.org/podcast or search for "Podomation" wherever you listen to podcasts.
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