The risk of cyber attacks in the logistics and shipping industries continues to be a considerable threat, with recent attacks on Maersk and FedEx revealing the scale and consequences of a security breach.

The tank storage industry, like many others, is not immune. The industry has its own cyber security challenges with many terminals in existence using older equipment that is often susceptible to attack.

There are three major threats that terminals and tank storage companies should be aware of: ransomware and Denial of Service (DDos), and a ‘wiper’.

There is also the threat of general cyber espionage to consider. It may not seem relevant to the terminal and tank storage industry until you consider that cyber criminals could use programs to manipulate and influence the stock market through interference with the production process. That in turn opens up issues of health and safety.

The more recently encountered ‘wiper’ virus functions by deleting data, rather than holding them ransom for financial gain. The recovery period from such an attack may take much longer, if at all.

Terminal owners and tank storage operators must protect their assets from cyber-attacks by ensuring that their entire automation and control systems are compliant to IEC62443. This is defacto standard for the operational technology environment worldwide.  The European Union has recognised the potential threats businesses have, and as such is in the process of developing the new IACS Cyber Security Framework.  

Cyber security is a subject that crops up almost every week and one thing is for sure, it needs to be taken more seriously both at a business and personal level. 

The forthcoming StocExpo Europe conference and exhibition in Rotterdam has made cyber security a key area of focus this year.

Today many terminal operators are taking active steps to determine the current state of cyber security in order to identify key risks. For example, establishing whether equipment, installation or control systems are directly connected to the internet without the appropriate protection.

Companies such as Hudson Cybertec often begin this process by conducting interviews looking at the organisational structure, review policies and procedures and review technology. These three pillars are important because investing in technology alone is not the answer.

Speaking at the upcoming StocExpo Europe exhibition and conference, which is being held in Rotterdam on 20-22 March, Marcel Jutte, Managing Director of Hudson Cybertec and Ruud Timmermans, Automation Engineer at VTTI, will be addressing the entire subject of cyber security as it effects the terminal and tank storage industry and will be giving best practice advice to those delegates in attendance. 

Additionally, several exhibitors will also be showcasing their innovative solutions, products and services focused around security and safety, including:

Zheijiang Dahua Technology, a leading solution provider in the global vídeo surveillance industry, will be showcasing their network cameras that provide an all-in-one solution to capturing long distance surveillance for outdoor applications.

Eccos, who have extensive experience in safety and security projects, will be showcasing three new products; Orgman (a computerised management system); Epsimax (an advance software solution) and a new internal corrosion monitoring system.

For more information, visit: www.stocexpo.com

5th Mar 2018

5th March 2018