Navigating the Future: Maritime Cyber Defence, Maritime Cybersecurity & Risk Intelligence seminar hosted by Dryad Global held during London International Shipping Week 2025 brought together a range of legal and technical experts to consider the cyber risks facing the maritime sector.

There was a clear consensus that cyber risk is no longer a peripheral issue, instead being central to how all links of a supply chain must think about resilience, regulation, and commercial risk.

Panellists discussed that one of the most pressing challenges is the lack of regulatory alignment across jurisdictions. The breakdown of international consensus has created a fragmented and reactive regulatory environment and, without collaboration, the risk may go unchecked. 

With shipping being ‘critical infrastructure’, regulators are also raising the bar for cyber governance, as senior managers/directors in some jurisdictions may face potential personal liability if cyber risks are not adequately managed. Organisations also need to demonstrate not only technical controls but also board-level oversight and incident response readiness.

The legal standard is shifting towards ‘state of the art’ defences, and contractual obligations are evolving to reflect this. Contractual clarity is essential, with interpretations of the meaning of “reasonable steps” and “high standard” varying across jurisdictions. 

Insurance

Cyber insurance remains a developing area for the maritime sector, with coverage typically split between physical damage and business disruption. However, attribution remains a challenge, particularly in cases involving state actors or war-related exclusions. 

Information sharing

Information sharing also remains a weak point. The maritime sector has yet to establish effective mechanisms for disseminating cyber threat intelligence, leaving operators exposed to repeat attacks and systemic vulnerabilities. There is a growing recognition that this must change – not just for cyber threats, but physical risk too.

Artificial intelligence (AI)

AI is increasing the risk to shipping due to the ability of hackers to generate genuine looking sites and communications so higher levels of diligence are required by users - but AI is also being used to develop countermeasures which has some promise.

Optimism ahead

Despite these challenges, there is optimism. The industry is increasingly aware of the risks and is beginning to take proactive steps to address them. With the right legal frameworks, contractual clarity, and strategic investment, maritime cyber resilience can become a source of strength rather than a point of vulnerability.