Harvey Gulf News

There’s plenty to go around for everyone, no matter it comes from.I will admit that attending the 2024 Workboat Show in the Big Easy just ten days after settling into the MarineNews Editor’s chair (for this, the second time around) had my full attention. The event typically evokes the specter of drinking from the proverbial fire hose in routine times, but attending and digesting all it has to offer, right out of the gate, makes the task just little bit edgier. Ultimately, last week’s trade show exuded terrific energy, from exhibitors to attendees alike.

A new report published by DNV has revealed that the majority (61%) of maritime professionals believe the industry should accept increased cyber risk from digitalization if it enables innovation and new technologies.The sector’s appetite to take on emerging risks arising from digital transformation is notably higher than other critical infrastructure industries including energy, manufacturing and healthcare, according to DNV.The industry’s increasing appetite for cyber risk comes at a time when it must manage a growing volume of vulnerabilities.Namely…

Malicious cyber activity in the first six months in the maritime sector increased significantly compared to the previous year, highlighting the importance of introducing proactive security measures to stay ahead of ever evolving tactics of cyber criminals.Marlink recently released the latest global maritime cyber threat report produced by its Security Operations Center (SOC), which registered 23,400 malware detections and 178 ransomware detections in the first half of 2024.Firewall events…

During the first half of the year, the threat landscape in the maritime environment has continued to evolve and surprise, compared to what was recorded in 2023.Marlink’s Security Operations Center (SOC) has reported that monitoring up to 1,800 vessels, adding visibility into events from endpoint protection solutions (EDR), firewalls, and e-mail security, along with the context provided by intelligence capabilities, has allowed it to gain deeper insight into what actions to take…

Infostealers, a type of malware designed to steal sensitive information from an infected system, has marked significant rise in the first half of 2024 in the maritime domain, Marlink’s Security Operations Center (SOC) has reported.The whole process involves six steps – starting from initial infection to the exploitation of acquired data, which can have serious consequences for the maritime industry, which relies heavily on interconnected systems and digital platforms.The initial…

Some of the key strategies to strengthen maritime cyber security include vigilance and proactive measures, timely incident reporting, and continuous improvement of security defenses, according to Marlink’s Security Operations Center (SOC) cyber security threats report.Vigilance and proactive measures are essential. Regular training, strong e-mail security, and advanced detection systems play a vital role in reducing the risk of phishing, spam, and other malicious activitiesAnother crucial aspect of improving cyber security is timely incident response.

In the first half of 2024, the Threat Intelligence team within Marlink’s Security Operations Centre has observed several activities carried out by malicious actors targeting the maritime industry.These activities include phishing, where malicious actors sending fraudulent e-mails or messages try to trick individuals into revealing sensitive information like passwords or financial details.Phishing attack trends include HTM/HTML documents with embedded links and QR codes to credential harvesting login landing pages hosted on difficult-to-block infrastructure…

Botnets are networks of hijacked computer devices used to carry out various scams and cyber attacks, under control of a single attacking party. According to Marlink’s Security Operations Center (SOC) cyber security threats report, the volume of botnet activity increased substantially in maritime sector in the first half of 2024, with new botnets leveraging more advanced evasion techniques.Artificial Intelligence (AI)-enhanced botnets began to surface, showcasing more sophisticated automation capabilities.According to Marlink…

During the first half of this year, the number of cyber security high alerts remained stable compared to those handled in 2023, according to Marlink’s Security Operations Center (SOC) cyber security threats report.However, medium and low alerts saw a significant rise, increasing from 100,000 in January to 270,000 in April, compared to an average of 75,000 in 2023.This surge was mitigated in May and June thanks to optimization efforts in detection and enrichment processes.If you are in New Orleans on November 13…

In the first six months, Initial Access tactics were the most prevalent cyber security threat in maritime domain, accounting for 48% of the 204,763 incidents, primarily involving phishing fraud and spam abusive content.According to Marlink’s Security Operations Center (SOC) on cyber security threats report, the Command & Control (C2) followed closely at 36%, driven largely by the execution of malicious files and links.Execution and Defence Evasion tactics, often seen through intrusion attempts…

Ransomware remained one of the primary threats to maritime targets in the first half of 2024, as it significantly disrupts operations and causes considerable economic damage, according to the to the report from Marlink’s Security Operations Center (SOC) on cyber security threats.Attacks have paralyzed critical systems, delayed shipments, and compromised logistics, resulting in operational downtime and costly ransom demands. This combination of operational impact and financial…

Reverse proxy phishing, a more sophisticated version of classic phishing cyberattack, could significantly impact maritime sectors operations, from the disruption of shipping logistics to the manipulation of sensitive communication systems, resulting in delays, loss of reputation, and costly recoveries.According to the report from Marlink’s Security Operations Center (SOC) on cyber security threats, a significant portion of the threats neutralized by the SOC have continued to follow the most common attack vector seen since 2022: phishing.However…

In the first half of 2024, the volume of cybersecurity incidents involving infostealers has increased significantly, and maritime victims have been no exception.Infostealers are a type of malware designed to steal sensitive information from an infected system, such as login credentials, financial data, browser history, and other personal or corporate information.The maritime industry relies heavily on interconnected systems and digital platforms to manage logistics, shipping routes, and vessel operations.

What drives cyber attackers and what are their main motives for malicious online activities? Who are the most prominent attackers in the maritime industry and how do they do it?According to the report from Marlink’s Security Operations Center on cyber security threats, cyber attackers targeting the maritime industry had a few main motives.Two of the main are operational disruption and financial fraud, where the attackers aim to disrupt or damage critical systems, causing significant interruptions to business operations…

Cyber Security in the maritime and offshore energy space has come front and center, with new Cyber Security rules expected soon from the U.S. Coast Guard.How will these new rules impact your bottom line? If you are in New Orleans on November 13, 2024, sign up now for a free lunch and moderated conference discussion on new United States Coast Guard (USCG) cyber security rules and their impact on the vessel owner/operators, OEMs and shipyards. Featured speakers include:Rear Admiral Wayne R. Arguin Jr., Assistant Commandant for Prevention Policy (CG-5P), U.S.

During the first half of the year, Marlink’s Security Operations Center actively monitored more than 1800 vessels across the maritime industry, including cargo ships, cruise liners, research vessels, superyachts, tankers, and offshore support vessels.The monitoring process involved continuous surveillance and analysis of various cyber activities across these assets to ensure the security and integrity of critical maritime operations.In its latest "SOC Report", Marlink reports that e-mail remains a primary vector for cyber attacks, particularly through phishing and malware distribution.

Marlink acquired 100% of Port-IT, a leader in cyber security solutions tailored for the maritime industry.Port-IT brings the combination of a state-of-the-art cyber security solutions portfolio together with a long-standing experience in the maritime industry. The acquisition follows and complements the cyber security professional and managed services capabilities of Diverto, which also recently joined the Marlink Group.Rhoon, the Netherlands-based Port-IT enjoys easy access to the major ports of Amsterdam…

Industry trade group the Offshore Marine Service Association (OMSA) announced the addition of four CEOs to its board of directors.The new board members include Wes Bordelon, Chief Executive Officer, Bordelon Marine; Stacy Jo Stanley, Chief Executive Officer, Offshore Oil Services, Inc.; David Dantin, Chief Executive Officer, Odyssea Marine; and Lasse Petterson, Chief Executive Officer, Great Lakes Dredge and Dock."With the addition of these four executive leaders, OMSA pays homage to its roots while welcoming expanded opportunities in emerging energy frontiers…

Quality Tank Cleaning LLC (QTC) has inaugurated a new industrial tank cleaning facility in collaboration with Harvey Gulf (HGIM).The company has introduced Ivan Galicia as a partner in the new endeavor located at Harvey Gulf’s Operations Facility in Port Fourchon, LA.With an illustrious career spanning over 25 years in the industry, Galicia is esteemed for his unparalleled expertise in tank cleaning operations, earning him recognition as a foremost authority in the field. He and…

Offshore vessel owner Harvey Gulf International Marine announced it is modifying its fleet of five dual fuel liquefied natural gas (LNG)/diesel electric powered offshore supply vessels (OSV).A key enhancement includes the segregation of Liquid Mud tanks into six isolated independent tank systems, each equipped with dedicated pumping, valve, loading, and discharging systems with zero chance of cross contamination.The first vessel to undergo these modifications, the 310’ DP2 Harvey Liberty…

A ‘Connected Future’ seminar, organized by Inmarsat in collaboration with Maritime Reporter & Engineering News and moderated by Greg Trauthwein, encapsulated the critical roles technology and data sharing play in enabling more efficient and sustainable workboat operations, and in improving conditions for crew.Insights from leading Offshore Supply Vessel owners and operators capture the extent to which technology and data sharing are driving greater efficiency, sustainability and…

Offshore service vessels, along with workboats serving harbors and inland rivers, have embarked on an industry-wide voyage toward reduced emissions of greenhouse gasses. Professor Craig Philip, a faculty member with Vanderbilt University’s Center for Transportation and Operational Resilience (VECTOR) and former CEO of Ingram Barge Company, provides this context: “The Maritime Sector has long provided shippers with the most fuel-efficient and sustainable freight transport option…

U.S.-based offshore vessel owner Harvey Gulf International Marine has said that Philip Luongo, a New York native and graduate of the United States Merchant Marine Academy, has joined the company. After graduating Kings Point, Luongo upgraded his Unlimited U.S. Coast Guard License by sailing on deep sea vessels and operating production platforms in the Gulf of Mexico. Luongo then transitioned shore side where he worked for BP for nine years, holding various leadership roles supporting the U.S Gulf of Mexico, Angola, Trinidad, Canada, and Brazil.