Danelec publishes white paper on VDR cybersecurity

(BIRKEROED, Denmark) — Danelec Marine has published a white paper describing the cybersecurity protective measures built into its voyage data recorders (VDRs). The white paper, “VDR Cyber Security,” is available for download by clicking here.

“We recognize that cyber-risk is a clear and present danger in today’s shipping business environment,” said Hans Ottosen, CEO of Danelec Marine. “As a VDR manufacturer, we take seriously our responsibility to our customers. That’s why we have put cybersecurity at the forefront in designing and building our products, with special attention to the remote access functionality in our VDR platform.”

“Since the VDR is connected to many vital ship navigation and safety systems, such as radar, ECDIS and GPS, it can be a potential avenue for penetrating these connected systems," Ottosen said. “For example, an attacker might try to damage or disrupt the ship’s navigation systems by inserting malware through the VDR, or vice versa, try to send false information to the VDR by hacking into the connected systems.”

In the white paper, Danelec Marine discusses the multi-layered cybersecurity countermeasures built into its DM100 VDR systems to protect against intentional threats from hackers as well as accidental introduction of malware. They include:

• Robust custom-built Linux-based computer platform.
• All software from trusted sources only and inspected for malware by Danelec.
• Secure platform module to screen software uploads.
• Built-in network processor that acts as a gatekeeper for data flowing into the VDR.
• Encrypted remote management connections.
• Secure remote access gateway that prevents access by unauthorized users.
• No auto-execution permitted from an external source such as a USB.

“These types of countermeasures cannot easily be patched onto existing VDRs,” said Ottosen. “We designed them into the DM100 VDR platform from the earliest phase of system definition and product engineering. Naturally, we are also constantly monitoring threats and risks, and responding as needed to ensure the products remain secure and threat-resistant.”

For more information, visit www.danelec-marine.com.

By Professional Mariner Staff