Lock the Hatch: 15 Ways to Fortify Your Ship Against Cyber Pirates (From Free to Elite)

With the rise of smart ships, IoT devices, and remote controls, cyber pirates are looking for ways to board your ship digitally. But here’s the good news — protecting your ship from these invisible invaders doesn’t have to cost a fortune.

We start with 5 free cybersecurity steps that shipowners can implement today. These quick, simple actions are the foundation of a strong maritime cybersecurity strategy. From tightening your passwords to educating your crew, these free tactics will go a long way in keeping cybercriminals at bay.

Why should you care?

• 🕵️ Hackers know ships are vulnerable — and they know shipboard systems often run on older, unpatched software.
• ⚓ Fines and lawsuits are rising if your ship is involved in a data breach or ransomware attack.
• 🚀 IMO 2021 regulations require shipowners to have a Cyber Risk Management plan, so free steps are a great starting point.

Let’s dive in with the 5 most effective FREE ways to protect your ship’s systems. Each step is broken down in detail so you can act on it today.

ShipUniverse: Top 5 Free Cybersecurity Steps for Ships
Step	What It Does	How to Do It	Time to Implement
Change Default Passwords	Removes easy access points hackers use to breach shipboard systems.	– Identify all shipboard devices with default passwords (navigation, GPS, Wi-Fi, communication gear). – Change passwords to a mix of uppercase, lowercase, numbers, and symbols (at least 12 characters). – Use a password manager like Bitwarden or LastPass to securely store them.	30-60 minutes per device
Restrict Crew Access	Limits access to critical ship systems, reducing the risk of accidental errors or intentional sabotage.	– Review crew roles and determine who needs access to specific systems. – Use Role-Based Access Control (RBAC) to limit access to navigation, engine, and comms systems. – Delete or deactivate old crew accounts when a crew member leaves.	1-2 hours for setup, ongoing as crew changes
Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)	Prevents unauthorized logins, even if a hacker steals a password.	– Identify which ship systems support 2FA (like tracking apps, communications, email). – Use free 2FA apps like Google Authenticator or Authy to manage access for crew and shore-side users. – Enable 2FA on shore-side fleet management systems and crew login portals.	1-2 hours for setup
Disable Unused Ports	Closes network “doors” that hackers use to infiltrate ship systems.	– Use a port scanning tool like Angry IP Scanner or Nmap to locate open ports. – Log into ship routers, control panels, and IoT devices to disable unnecessary ports. – Disable Telnet (port 23) and FTP (port 21) if they are no longer in use.	2-3 hours for scan and configuration
Crew Cybersecurity Training	Reduces human error, which is the leading cause of cyber breaches.	– Conduct quick training before each voyage on spotting phishing emails and malware. – Provide “What to Do If You Spot a Cyber Threat” guides for crew members. – Test crew knowledge with surprise phishing email tests.	30-60 minutes per training session

Moderate-Cost Cybersecurity

By now, you’ve got the free steps covered — but for those who want to take their cybersecurity to the next level, it’s time to explore some moderate-cost solutions. While these options aren’t free, they offer huge value for the price.

Unlike the free steps, these measures use paid tools, software, and professional services. Why upgrade?

• Free only goes so far. Hackers are constantly looking for more sophisticated ways to access your systems.
• IMO compliance may require additional protections, like software firewalls and access monitoring.
• Prevention is cheaper than recovery. One cyberattack can cost a shipowner thousands (or more) in downtime, fines, and lawsuits.

Let’s look at 5 key cybersecurity actions that fall in the moderate-cost range. These measures provide powerful protection without breaking the bank.

ShipUniverse: Top 5 Moderate-Cost Cybersecurity Steps for Ships
Step	What It Does	How to Do It	Cost & Time
Install Endpoint Security Software	Protects shipboard devices (like laptops, crew tablets, and ship system controllers) from malware, ransomware, and spyware.	– Purchase endpoint protection software like Bitdefender GravityZone or Avast Business. – Install on all devices that access ship systems, including navigation, GPS, and crew devices. – Set up automatic updates and real-time threat detection.	$50-$150 per device per year, 2-4 hours for setup
Set Up Firewalls for Network Segmentation	Separates critical ship systems (like navigation) from crew Wi-Fi and entertainment networks.	– Purchase a commercial-grade firewall like Fortinet, Cisco Meraki, or WatchGuard. – Segment shipboard networks so crew Wi-Fi is separate from operational systems. – Configure traffic rules to allow only specific devices to access critical ship systems.	$500-$2,000 per ship, 3-6 hours for setup
Install Network Intrusion Detection System (IDS)	Detects abnormal network activity and alerts shipowners to suspicious behavior in real time.	– Purchase and configure an IDS like Snort, Suricata, or AlienVault. – Set up alert notifications to be sent to ship managers when suspicious activity is detected. – Connect the IDS to firewalls and routers for enhanced detection and automated blocking.	$1,000-$3,000 per ship, 4-8 hours for setup
Secure Wi-Fi with Encryption & VPN	Encrypts shipboard Wi-Fi and remote communications, making it harder for hackers to intercept sensitive data.	– Upgrade to WPA3 Wi-Fi encryption on all access points. – Purchase VPN software like NordVPN Teams or Perimeter 81 for remote crew access. – Require VPN use for all remote access to ship systems from shore-based operators.	$100-$500 annually for VPN & Wi-Fi upgrades, 2-3 hours for setup
Conduct Penetration Testing	Simulates a cyberattack on your ship systems to reveal vulnerabilities before hackers find them.	– Hire a cybersecurity company (like Kaspersky or EY) to perform penetration testing. – Provide access to shipboard systems for the ethical hacking team. – Use the penetration test report to fix vulnerabilities, like unpatched software or weak credentials.	$1,000-$3,000 per test, 1-3 days for completion

Elite Cybersecurity Steps

These aren’t just “nice to have” — they’re essential if you operate multiple ships, carry high-value cargo, or deal with sensitive data.

These high-end options are designed to protect fleets from sophisticated, targeted cyberattacks. While they come with a hefty price tag, they offer peace of mind, IMO compliance, and fleet-wide visibility that can’t be achieved with entry-level tools.

Here’s a closer look at the 5 most essential high-end cybersecurity measures for shipowners. These steps are built to provide advanced threat detection, fleet-wide visibility, and AI-driven response systems.

ShipUniverse: Top 5 Expensive Cybersecurity Steps for Ships
Step	What It Does	How to Do It	Cost & Time
Install AI-Driven Threat Detection	Monitors ship systems 24/7, using AI to detect and respond to threats in real time, even while the crew sleeps.	– Use AI-driven tools like Darktrace, IBM Watson for Cybersecurity, or Palo Alto Cortex XDR. – Install AI agents on shipboard networks to monitor traffic, user activity, and unusual behavior. – Set up automated threat responses to isolate and block breaches automatically.	$20,000 – $100,000 annually, 2-4 weeks to set up
Deploy Zero-Trust Network Access (ZTNA)	Creates a “zero trust” environment where all users, devices, and connections are continuously verified.	– Use Zero-Trust platforms like Cloudflare Zero Trust, Zscaler, or Okta Identity Cloud. – Implement user verification for every system access (even internal crew logins). – Use multi-factor authentication (MFA) and continuous access monitoring.	$50,000 – $200,000 for setup and licensing, 3-6 weeks
Fleet-Wide Cybersecurity Monitoring	Monitors all ships in a fleet for threats in real time from a centralized command center.	– Use fleet monitoring platforms like Palo Alto Cortex, Darktrace Fleet, or F-Secure Countercept. – Create a fleet-wide “Security Information and Event Management” (SIEM) system. – Connect all ship logs to a centralized dashboard for real-time fleet visibility.	$50,000 – $150,000 annually, 2-3 months for fleet rollout
Adopt Advanced Intrusion Prevention Systems (IPS)	Blocks suspicious network traffic before it reaches critical ship systems.	– Install IPS devices from Fortinet, Cisco Secure IPS, or Palo Alto Networks. – Connect the IPS to firewalls and configure automatic blocking for unusual activity. – Conduct regular reviews and update IPS rules as new threats emerge.	$10,000 – $50,000 per ship, 1-2 weeks for setup
IMO Cyber Risk Audit & Certification	Ensures your ship meets IMO 2021 Cyber Risk guidelines, reducing insurance premiums and legal risks.	– Hire classification societies like Lloyd’s Register or DNV-GL for an IMO Cyber Risk Audit. – Provide ship system documentation and access to onboard hardware/software records. – Address compliance gaps, then reapply for certification.	$20,000 – $50,000 per ship, 1-3 months for certification

Cybersecurity is not “set it and forget it” — it’s an ongoing battle.

Hackers evolve, new vulnerabilities are discovered, and regulations (like IMO 2021) keep changing. But if you’ve implemented the strategies covered in this guide, you’re already ahead of the curve. Whether you own a single ship or manage a fleet, there’s a plan of action for every budget. Let’s recap the journey.

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🚀 Free Steps (No Excuses)

Even if you do nothing else, the free steps should be done immediately. They cost nothing but a bit of time, yet they provide 80% of your ship’s defense against cyberattacks. These actions include:

• Changing default passwords: A simple action with a massive impact.
• Limiting crew access: If hackers breach one crew member’s login, they won’t get access to everything.
• Enabling 2FA: This extra layer of security makes it nearly impossible for hackers to log in.
• Disabling unused ports: Ports are like open doors. If they’re not in use, lock them shut.
• Cybersecurity training for the crew: Human error causes 90% of breaches, so train your crew to recognize phishing and scams.

Pro Tip 💡: Don’t “guess” which ports are open. Use tools like Angry IP Scanner to see every open port on your ship’s network. You’ll be shocked at how many are still open by default.

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💸 Moderate-Cost Steps (Strong ROI)

Once you’ve secured the basics, it’s time to consider upgrades with a little more financial investment. These solutions protect your ship while also saving time and reducing manual intervention. They also help you stay in compliance with IMO Cyber Risk Management Guidelines. Here’s what these look like:

• Endpoint security software: Stops malware, ransomware, and viruses on devices like laptops, crew tablets, and shipboard computers.
• Firewalls and network segmentation: Keeps crew Wi-Fi traffic separate from ship-critical systems like GPS, navigation, and engine control.
• Network intrusion detection systems (IDS): Alerts shipowners if hackers try to access the ship’s network in real time.
• Wi-Fi encryption and VPNs: Encrypts ship Wi-Fi so outsiders can’t intercept your traffic. Remote operators should always use a VPN.
• Penetration testing: Ethical hackers simulate cyberattacks to identify vulnerabilities before real hackers do.

Pro Tip 💡: Don’t wait for an IMO inspection to start penetration testing. Issues like unpatched software or exposed ports could take weeks to fix. It’s better to schedule a pen test early, so you have time to correct issues.

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💥 Elite Cybersecurity (Next-Level Protection)

At the elite level, you’re implementing the same protections as large shipping corporations and fleet operators. These aren’t just about keeping hackers out — they’re about total visibility, real-time response, and full compliance. If you have multiple ships, high-value cargo, or a reputation to protect, these measures are essential:

• AI-Driven Threat Detection: AI tracks everything, from traffic to crew logins, and automatically responds to unusual activity.
• Zero-Trust Network Access (ZTNA): No one is trusted — not even your crew — without verification.
• Fleet-Wide Monitoring: See every ship in your fleet on one dashboard. Get live alerts for attacks.
• Advanced Intrusion Prevention Systems (IPS): If the IDS detects an attack, the IPS automatically blocks it.
• IMO Cyber Risk Certification: Get your ship IMO-certified, reduce your risk of fines, and negotiate lower insurance premiums.

Pro Tip 💡: Insurers are watching. Ships with IMO Cyber Risk Certification can get better insurance rates because the risk of a data breach is lower. The upfront cost of certification could save you thousands in reduced premiums.

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Insider Tips for Shipowners

While most shipowners focus on compliance and regulations, the real “insider advantage” comes from understanding how hackers operate. Knowing the enemy is half the battle. Here’s what experienced shipowners and cybersecurity experts know that others don’t:

1️⃣ Hackers Don’t Need to Be Onboard

They don’t have to sneak aboard with a laptop. They just need to access an exposed port, crew Wi-Fi, or an outdated device on your network. If you leave one port open or one device unpatched, they have their way in. Block unused ports, patch software, and isolate crew Wi-Fi.

2️⃣ Human Error is the Biggest Threat

The most high-tech defenses won’t stop a crew member from clicking on a phishing link. Hackers use social engineering to trick crew into clicking fake emails or fake “update” buttons. This is why ongoing crew training is critical.

3️⃣ Fleet Visibility is Non-Negotiable

If you own multiple ships, you need to see everything at once. If a hacker targets one ship, you can assume the fleet is next. Tools like Darktrace for Fleet or F-Secure Countercept allow you to monitor all ships in one dashboard. This prevents “island syndrome” — where you think each ship is its own system but, in reality, all ships are connected.

4️⃣ Don’t Ignore IMO 2021 Compliance

The IMO Cyber Risk Management Guidelines aren’t just paperwork — they’re your roadmap for protecting ships. Failure to comply could mean hefty fines, lawsuits, and failed audits. Use the IMO compliance process as an opportunity to implement strong protections while lowering your insurance premiums.

5️⃣ Ask for Insurance Discounts

When you complete advanced cybersecurity steps like IMO certification, fleet-wide monitoring, and ZTNA, you have leverage. Show your insurer the proof. Many underwriters will reduce your premium because your fleet poses less risk.

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What’s Next?

Cybersecurity for ships is no longer a “nice-to-have” — it’s a requirement. The IMO 2021 Cyber Risk Guidelines are clear: you must have a Cyber Risk Management Plan in place.

But here’s the good news:

• You don’t need to spend a fortune. Start with the free steps.
• As you grow, upgrade to moderate-cost measures for stronger protection.
• When you’re managing a fleet, go for the elite protections that reduce risk, lower insurance premiums, and give you total fleet visibility.

If you only take away one lesson from this guide, it’s this:

Don’t wait for an attack to upgrade your security. Act today.