Our Maritime Injury Lawyers Share What You Need to Know About Maritime Cybersecurity Attacks, Injuries, and Recoveries
Some dangers – like slippery decks and strong storms – have been maritime risks for millennia. However, other dangers – like maritime cybersecurity – are new and just as dangerous. Maritime cybersecurity is not just about stolen data or financial loss. Digital threats can cause real physical injuries, and as a maritime worker, you deserve to make a full and fair recovery if you’re hurt.
Types of Maritime Cybersecurity Risks
You need to know why you were hurt before you can make a fair recovery. Some possible maritime cybersecurity risks include:
Malware and Ransomware
Malicious software, or malware, can infect ship systems like a virus, potentially disabling critical navigation or safety equipment. Malware may become ransomware if cybercriminals demand payment to release ship data or controls. According to the United States Coast Guard, ransomware incidents increased 80% from 2022 to 2023, and the average ransom request more than tripled in that year.
Phishing
Fraudulent attempts to obtain sensitive information can trick crew members into revealing crucial data. A single click on a seemingly innocent email could give hackers control over vital ship functions.
Password Hacking
Stolen passwords are like leaving the ship's cargo hold unlocked. Cybercriminals can gain unauthorized access to critical systems, potentially altering course data or disabling safety protocols.
Social Engineering
This technique manipulates crew members into divulging confidential information. A simple phone call from someone posing as a port authority could lead to a security breach with far-reaching consequences.
GPS Spoofing
Cybercriminals may purposefully interfere with your ship’s GPS. For example, by broadcasting false GPS signals, attackers can deceive a ship about its location, potentially leading to collisions or groundings.
Cybersecurity Threats Can Cause Physical Maritime Injuries
The physical risks for seamen and other maritime workers depend on which parts of the ship’s system were affected by the attack. For example:
Navigation System Compromise
A hacked navigation system could lead a ship off course, resulting in collisions or groundings. The impact could throw crew members off balance, causing falls, drownings, broken bones, head injuries, spinal cord injuries, and other injuries.
Engine Control System Interference
Cybercriminals tampering with engine controls could cause sudden stops or acceleration, leading to accidents on deck. Crew members could be caught off guard, resulting in slips, falls, or equipment-related injuries.
Safety System Malfunction
Hacked safety systems might fail to alert crew to dangers like fires or flooding. Without proper warning, seamen could suffer burns, smoke inhalation, or drown.
Cargo Handling System Disruption
Compromised cargo systems could lead to improper loading or unloading, increasing the risk of falling cargo. Crew members could face crushing injuries or severe trauma.
Communication System Failure
If communication systems are breached, crews might be unable to call for help during emergencies. This delay in medical assistance could exacerbate injuries or lead to life-threatening situations.
How Your Employer Could Prevent Cyberattack Accidents
Your employer can’t prevent every criminal attack – just like a bank can’t prevent every robbery. However, there are steps that responsible maritime employers can take to make cyberattacks less likely, such as:
- Cybersecurity training. Regular training sessions can help your employer recognize phishing attempts, understand the importance of strong passwords, and stay updated on the latest cyber threats.
- Implementing strong access controls. Your employer can require robust passwords and multi-factor authentication to create digital locks that protect critical ship systems.
- Keeping systems updated. All onboard systems should be regularly updated with the latest security patches, which often contain crucial fixes for newly discovered vulnerabilities.
- Segmenting ship networks. Your ship’s IT team should separate critical systems from general-use networks. That way, a breach in one area may not spread to all vital navigation and safety systems.
- Conducting regular cybersecurity assessments. These audits can identify vulnerabilities before malicious actors exploit them.
What to Do if You're Hurt in a Cyberattack at Sea
If you find yourself injured due to a maritime cyberattack, our experienced maritime injury lawyers encourage you to:
- Get medical attention. Your health comes first. Even if injuries seem minor, get a thorough medical evaluation. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent.
- Report the incident. Inform your superiors and ensure the incident is documented correctly. This documentation can be crucial for any future legal proceedings.
- Preserve evidence. If possible, take photos of the accident scene and your injuries. Additionally, contact a maritime injury attorney who can make sure that all relevant IT data is saved so that it can be thoroughly analyzed.
- Consult with Hofmann & Schweitzer. We have over 40 years of experience helping maritime workers around the country. We understand maritime law and emerging cybersecurity issues and would be pleased to provide you with a free consultation.
- File a claim. You may be entitled to compensation under maritime law. We can help you understand your options and file the appropriate claims.
