Denmark Adopts New Strategy for Cyber Security

The Danish Ministry of Industry, Business and Financial Affairs has launched a new sectoral strategy for the shipping industry. The strategy is a part of the Danish government’s national strategy for cyber and information security.

The strategy contains a number of initiatives aimed at strengthening IT security and preventing cyber threats in the maritime sector, according to a press release from Danish Maritime Authority (DMA).

The objective of the strategy is to ensure that safety in Danish waters and on board Danish ships is not compromised by cyber attacks.

The responsibility for cyber and information security in the maritime sector lies with the Danish Maritime Authority. The new strategy covers navigational safety in Danish waters and safety on board Danish ships, including systems and software for operation, propulsion and navigation of the ship.

In addition, services such as traffic monitoring, warning and information systems, as well as other systems with a connection to the ship's safe navigation, are included.

The DMA has established a dedicated Danish Maritime Cybersecurity Unit, which is to handle implementation of the strategy in practice.

The strategy's initiatives includes establishment of the Danish Maritime Cybersecurity Unit, EU and International law, single point of contact between maritime operators and the Centre for Cyber Security (CFCS), secondment of Danish Maritime Authority employee at the CFCS and increased awareness through collaboration and knowledge sharing in the maritime sector.