The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) has opened a Maritime Cybersecurity Operations Centre (MSOC).

Operated by ST Engineering in its hub, MSOC will conduct 24/7 monitoring and correlate data activities across all maritime Critical Information Infrastructure (CII).

It can also analyse activities in the IT environment and detect and monitor cyber-attacks.

By detecting anomalies and threats, the centre can also respond to the cybersecurity incidents using available technology solutions.

MSOC is aimed at strengthening the maritime cybersecurity posture in Singapore through early detection, monitoring, analysis and response to potential cyber-attacks on maritime CIIs.

MPA will be able to work with CIIs to ensure their protection and investigate any cybersecurity threat or incident.

In order to respond to cyber incidents in a timely manner, MPA will also build key data linkages between MSOC and Port Operations Control Centre.

Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore chairman Niam Chiang Meng said: “Cyber threats come in many forms and have been rising steadily across the globe.

“As the world’s busiest transhipment hub, it is important that we safeguard our maritime and port critical infrastructure to prevent a major disruption to port operations and delivery of services.”

“MPA has introduced other initiatives to strengthen the cybersecurity readiness of the maritime sector.”

In addition to MSOC, MPA has introduced other initiatives to strengthen the cybersecurity readiness of the maritime sector.

MPA developed a new one-day Maritime Cybersecurity (Intermediate) Training Course in collaboration with Singapore Shipping Association and Singapore Polytechnic for maritime personnel to enhance their knowledge in managing cyber threats and challenges.

It also partnered with the Singapore Maritime Institute and local institutes of higher learning on a Maritime Cybersecurity Research programme that focuses on the protection of shipboard systems to mitigate cyber threats.