The crew of an LNG carrier has reportedly claimed that hackers gained control of some of the vessel’s safety systems, highlighting growing concerns over cybersecurity risks in the maritime sector.
According to the crew’s account, the alleged cyber incident affected systems used to monitor or support the safe operation of the LNG carrier. The reported incident has raised questions about the vulnerability of shipboard operational technology to unauthorised access.
Cybersecurity has become an increasing concern for the shipping industry as vessels rely on interconnected digital systems for navigation, cargo management, communications and engine and safety monitoring. A successful intrusion into operational systems could potentially disrupt normal vessel operations.
The reported incident also underscores the importance of separating critical operational technology from vulnerable networks, maintaining updated security controls and having contingency procedures for operating safely if digital systems are compromised.
Maritime operators and regulators have been strengthening cybersecurity requirements in response to the growing use of connected ship systems. LNG carriers, which transport liquefied natural gas, require particularly robust safety and operational controls because of the nature of their cargo.
The specific circumstances and extent of the alleged incident would need to be established through technical investigation. The crew’s claims do not by themselves confirm the identity of the attackers or the full scope of any system compromise.
The incident adds to wider industry concerns over cyber threats to commercial shipping and the potential impact of attacks on vessel safety and global energy supply chains.