Dutch Seaports Launch National Cybersecurity Platform
Rotterdam, Thursday, 12 December 2024.
On 10 December 2024, Dutch seaports initiated a national cybersecurity platform to combat growing digital threats in maritime operations, marking a significant step in enhancing port security.
Strategic Collaboration for Maritime Security
The initiative represents a unified effort between major Dutch seaports, with the FERM Foundation leading the transformation into a nationwide platform [1]. Key stakeholders include the Ministry of Infrastructure & Water Management, the National Coordinator for Counterterrorism and Security, and the Seaports Trade Organisation (BOZ), which represents five major ports: Groningen Seaports, North Sea Port, Port of Rotterdam, Port of Moerdijk, and Port of Amsterdam [5]. This collaborative approach comes at a crucial time, as the maritime industry, which handles over 90% of global merchandise trade and contributes to 8-12% of global GDP [3], faces increasing cybersecurity challenges.
Addressing Growing Cyber Threats
The urgency of this initiative is underscored by recent industry statistics showing that shipowners and ports encountered at least 64 cyber incidents in 2023, with the average cost of cyberattacks more than tripling to US$ 550,000 in 2022 [3]. Boudewijn Siemons, Chair of BOZ and CEO of Port of Rotterdam Authority, emphasized that ‘Cybersecurity is critical to the continuity and security of our ports’ [1]. Peter Van Parys, COO of North Sea Port, reinforced this sentiment, stating that ‘Cybercrime knows no borders. Addressing these threats and improving resilience is best done collectively’ [5].
Leadership Transition and Future Plans
The platform will see a leadership change as Marijn van Schoote takes over as FERM director and project leader for nationwide cyber cooperation starting January 1, 2025 [1]. The current director, Evelien Bras, expressed pride in the organization’s evolution, noting that ‘the value of FERM is being extended and expanded into a nationwide platform with its own profile for each port area’ [1]. The initiative builds upon FERM’s successful track record since 2021 in the ports of Rotterdam and Moerdijk [5].
International Context and Industry Impact
This Dutch initiative aligns with global maritime cybersecurity efforts, exemplified by recent international exercises such as the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s maritime cybersecurity tabletop exercise in Manila on December 2, 2024 [2]. The platform’s launch demonstrates the maritime industry’s commitment to protecting critical infrastructure while adapting to increasing digitalization. The initiative will focus on threat information exchange, knowledge sharing, and training for port-related companies [1].