Port of Amsterdam Launches Cybersecurity Programme

Port of Amsterdam has launched a Cybersecurity Programme to increase the port community's digital resilience.

A press release from the port has explained the rationale behind the launch: "The Netherlands is one of the world's top three countries affected by cyber attacks. Ports are particularly vulnerable, as they have a wide range of information systems and their data is used by many different parties."

Information systems contain valuable information that makes them an appealing target for cybercrime. Every company needs to have implemented basic cybersecurity controls such as an awareness programme, segregation of networks, timely installations of security updates and a multi-layered security approach.

Port of Amsterdam attaches importance to the proactive involvement of companies in the port area in joint efforts to improve cyber resilience. Port of Amsterdam has developed a Cybersecurity Programme to further this goal.

The Programme comprises two important elements, a hotline and the CYREN network (Cyber Resilient North Sea Canal Area). The CYREN network collects information about cyber threats and shares this with the affiliated companies.  

Marleen van de Kerkhof, Harbour Master of Port of Amsterdam and initiator of Port of Amsterdam's Cybersecurity Programme said: "Data flows and chains are increasingly being linked together and made available to a broad public on the Internet. This offers both opportunities and substantial challenges for information security. An attack on a customer's or supplier's information system not only impacts the company, but can often also affect all other companies in its surroundings and disrupt shipping operations: cyber incidents are not limited by physical boundaries. Rapidly sharing the latest information about threats, incidents and perspectives for action increases the cyber resilience of the entire port region."