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Secure martitime operations, reduce cyber risk, and maintain compliance (without adding internal burden)

The maritime global shipping industry is a high-value target. Complex IT and OT environments, long supply chains, and limited onboard security staff make vessels and ports vulnerable to attack. Gradient Cyber's MXDR helps you secure your global shipping operations both on shore and at sea, 24/7/365.

The Problem

Annual cyberattacks targeting the shipping sector have increased by more than 300% over the past five years.

Threat actors know vessels rely heavily on remote access and satellite connectivity, and they exploit these dependencies with ransomware, phishing, and malware attacks that disrupt operations and compromise cargo, crew, and customer data.

Some common maritime cybersecurity challenges include:
  • Limited onboard security resources and remote access reliance
  • Outdated software or unpatched systems on bridge and engine room OT assets
  • Satellite-based communications vulnerable to interception or disruption
  • Complex, global supply chains that introduce third-party risk
  • Regulatory pressure, including IMO 2021 requirements for cyber risk management
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How Gradient Cyber Helps

24/7 Managed Detection and Response designed to protect hybrid maritime environments

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Our in-house, US-based SOC monitors and defends both shoreside and vessel systems from threats targeting IT, OT, and cloud infrastructure with services including:
  • Threat Detection & Response
    Continuous monitoring for ransomware, malware, phishing, and APT activity
  • Log Aggregation & Correlation
    Full visibility across vessel networks, shoreside IT, and satellite connections
  • Asset & Vulnerability Management
    Continuous tracking of systems and vulnerabilities, including third-party software
  • Remote Incident Response
    Immediate support from analysts to isolate, contain, and remediate breaches
  • Compliance Support
    Tools and reports to support IMO, USCG, and ISPS cybersecurity regulations
Case Study

How International Seaways Reduces Dwell Time & MTTR with MXDR

International Seaways (INSW), one of the largest tanker companies worldwide, partners with Gradient Cyber to reduce cyber risk across their global fleet.

The Benefits

  • Improved Visibility
    Gradient deploys and maintains sensors across vessel and shore networks for unified security monitoring.
  • Faster Response
    Gradient’s 24/7 SOC responds to early-stage threat activity before it escalates.
  • Lowered Risk
    INSW is able to meet internal board expectations and external cyber insurance requirements without expanding internal headcount.

Why It Works

We don’t require local staff or complicated deployments. Our team does the heavy lifting, and we tailor every engagement to your environment, pace, and risk tolerance. Most shipping operators don’t need more tools. They need a dedicated team watching all of them constantly.

When you partner with Gradient Cyber for MXDR, you get:

  • Better signal-to-noise detection
  • Dedicated analysts who understand maritime systems
  • SOC coverage that spans shipboard, shore-based, and cloud infrastructure
  • Reporting aligned to your compliance and insurance needs

Let's Talk

If you operate vessels or support port logistics, you’re already on the radar of cybercriminals. Let’s make sure you’re also on ours.

Maritime Cybersecurity FAQ

What cybersecurity risks do maritime companies face today?

Maritime companies are targeted by ransomware, phishing, and malware attacks that can disrupt navigation systems, engine controls, cargo tracking, and communication networks. Attackers often exploit remote access, satellite links, and unpatched OT systems.

Why is the maritime industry a target for cybercriminals?

Ships carry valuable cargo and rely on digital systems that are often undersecured and difficult to update at sea. Long supply chains, global operations, and aging infrastructure give attackers multiple entry points with high potential impact.

What is Managed Extended Detection and Response (MXDR) for maritime environments?

MXDR combines 24/7 monitoring, threat detection, and rapid response across vessel IT, OT, satellite comms, and cloud services. It gives maritime operators full visibility without needing internal security staff on every ship.

How does Gradient Cyber secure ships and port infrastructure?

We monitor network traffic from shipboard systems, shoreside offices, and cloud platforms. Our analysts investigate threats, respond to incidents, and help meet regulatory requirements like IMO 2021 and USCG directives.

What regulations or standards apply to maritime cybersecurity?

Key frameworks include the IMO 2021 cyber risk management guidelines, USCG NVIC 01-20, ISPS Code amendments, and insurance-driven compliance policies. Gradient Cyber helps you meet them through proactive monitoring, incident response, and audit-ready reporting.

Do you protect both IT and OT systems onboard vessels?

Yes. Our sensors and telemetry collect data from traditional IT systems (email, applications) and OT systems (engine controls, navigation, sensors) that are connected to your ships network. We correlate this data to detect threats across both environments.

Can Gradient Cyber support a global fleet across time zones?

Yes. Our U.S.-based SOC operates 24/7 and provides continuous monitoring for global fleets. We tailor coverage by vessel type, location, and network configuration.

How long does it take to onboard a vessel with Gradient Cyber?

Onboarding can begin in days. We work with your IT team to install sensors or integrate logs, then our SOC takes over monitoring and response.