5 IT Security Mistakes Maritime Companies in Singapore Make

The maritime industry is increasingly in the crosshairs of cybercriminals. The IMO has mandated cyber risk management as part of the ISM Code since January 2021, and MPA Singapore has issued its own cybersecurity guidelines for port operators and vessel owners. Yet many maritime companies continue to operate with significant vulnerabilities. Here are the five mistakes we see most often — and what to do about them.

1. Running Outdated Operating Systems on Vessel Computers

We still regularly find Windows 7 and even Windows XP running on bridge computers, cargo management terminals, and office machines across Singapore-registered vessels. These operating systems no longer receive security patches, leaving them permanently vulnerable to known exploits. The fix sounds simple — upgrade to Windows 11 — but vessel systems often have specialist software with strict OS compatibility requirements. ICT Marine Solution works with vendors to test and validate upgraded environments so that both security and operational software can coexist on supported platforms.

2. No Separation Between Crew and Operational Networks

Crew Wi-Fi and operational IT systems (navigation, engine management, cargo) sharing the same network is a critical vulnerability. A single compromised crew device — a laptop with malware picked up in port, for example — can potentially reach operational systems on a flat network. Proper VLAN segmentation creates hard boundaries between crew connectivity, officer business systems, and operational technology (OT) networks. This is a standard part of any vessel network installation ICT Marine Solution carries out.

3. Weak or Shared Password Practices

Password reuse, shared administrative credentials, and trivial passwords like 'admin' or 'password123' remain common across maritime operators of all sizes. We find these across everything from NVR systems to server administrator accounts. The solution is multi-factor authentication (MFA) for all remote access and business accounts, a password manager for the team, and a clear policy requiring unique passwords for every system. Microsoft 365 with Azure AD makes MFA straightforward to enforce across the organisation.

4. Ignoring Data Backup and Recovery Planning

Many vessel operators and maritime agencies have no tested data backup strategy. When ransomware strikes — and it does target maritime companies — the absence of a good backup means days or weeks of downtime and potential data loss. A 3-2-1 backup strategy (three copies, two media types, one offsite) combined with regular recovery testing is the baseline. ICT Marine Solution designs and manages backup solutions that meet this standard with automated monitoring and failure alerts.

5. Not Vetting Third-Party Remote Access

Port agents, equipment vendors, and classification society surveyors increasingly need remote access to vessel systems. Granting broad, unmonitored remote access credentials to third parties is a significant risk. Each third-party connection should be time-limited, logged, and revoked when no longer needed. Implementing a proper remote access management policy and the technical controls to enforce it is something our consulting team can help you put in place quickly.

Where to Start

If you are unsure where your organisation stands on maritime cybersecurity, the most important first step is a baseline assessment. ICT Marine Solution conducts IT security reviews for maritime operators across Singapore, identifying your highest-risk vulnerabilities and providing a prioritised remediation plan. Contact us for a free initial consultation.