Purpose: This template is designed to support maritime organisations in conducting cyber risk assessments in compliance with the IMO Resolution MSC.428(98). The template provides a structured approach to identifying, evaluating, and mitigating cyber risks in both Information Technology (IT) and Operational Technology (OT) systems onboard vessels and in associated shore-based operations.
Section 1: General Information
Assessment Date:
Organisation Name:
Assessor(s):
Department/Unit:
Scope of Assessment: (e.g., specific vessel, port facility, system)
Next Review Date:
Section 2: Asset Identification
Identify critical assets that could be affected by cyber risks. These may include systems, devices, data, or infrastructure.
Asset Name | Asset Description | Location (e.g., bridge, engine room) | Asset Owner | Criticality Level (High/Medium/Low) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Additional Notes:
Provide further context on how these assets are used in operations.
Section 3: Threat Identification
Identify potential cyber threats that could impact the identified assets. Examples include:
External threats: Hackers, malware, ransomware, phishing attacks.
Internal threats: Human error, insider threats, misconfigurations.
Third-party risks: Vendors, contractors, supply chain risks.
Threat Description | Target Asset(s) | Source of Threat (Internal/External) | Potential Impact |
Additional Notes:
Document any recent incidents or threat intelligence relevant to the identified threats.
Section 4: Vulnerability Assessment
Identify vulnerabilities that could be exploited by the threats listed above. These may include technical weaknesses, procedural gaps, or outdated systems.
Vulnerability Description | Associated Asset(s) | Likelihood of Exploitation (High/Medium/Low) | Impact if Exploited (High/Medium/Low) |
Additional Notes:
Include information on vulnerability sources, such as penetration test results or audit findings.
Section 5: Risk Assessment
Evaluate the risk by considering the likelihood and impact of each identified threat exploiting a vulnerability.
Risk ID | Threat Description | Vulnerability Description | Risk Level (High/Medium/Low) | Current Mitigation Measures | Residual Risk Level |
Risk Level Criteria:
High: Immediate action required to mitigate risk.
Medium: Mitigation measures should be implemented within a reasonable timeframe.
Low: Monitor and review periodically.
Additional Notes:
Provide any relevant details about risk scenarios or prioritisation.
Section 6: Mitigation Measures
Outline the security measures and controls implemented to mitigate each identified risk. Consider both technical and organisational measures.
Risk ID | Mitigation Measure Description | Responsible Party | Implementation Deadline | Status (Completed/In Progress) |
Example Mitigation Measures:
Network segmentation.
Access control policies.
Regular patch management and software updates.
Employee training on cybersecurity awareness.
Additional Notes:
Include plans for monitoring and verifying the effectiveness of these measures.
Section 7: Incident Response and Recovery
Describe the organisation’s procedures for detecting, responding to, and recovering from cyber incidents.
Incident Type | Detection Method | Response Steps | Recovery Plan | Responsible Party |
Additional Notes:
Include details about incident escalation procedures, communication plans, and notification requirements (e.g., to authorities under MSC.428(98)).
Section 8: Training and Awareness
Document cybersecurity training initiatives and awareness programmes for crew members, staff, and contractors.
Training Programme Description | Target Audience | Frequency | Responsible Party | Status (Completed/In Progress) |
Additional Notes:
Highlight key topics covered, such as secure system usage, phishing awareness, and incident reporting procedures.
Section 9: Monitoring and Audit
Describe how the organisation monitors and audits its cybersecurity measures to ensure ongoing compliance and effectiveness.
Audit/Monitoring Activity | Description | Frequency | Responsible Party | Status (Completed/In Progress) |
Additional Notes:
Include information on tools and technologies used for continuous monitoring, such as intrusion detection systems (IDS) and security information and event management (SIEM) platforms.
Section 10: Continuous Improvement
Identify areas for improvement based on the assessment findings and audits. Document plans to enhance the organisation’s cybersecurity posture.
Improvement Initiative | Description | Responsible Party | Implementation Deadline | Status (Completed/In Progress) |
Additional Notes:
Summarise lessons learned from recent incidents, audits, and threat intelligence updates.
Section 11: Approval and Sign-Off
This cyber risk assessment has been reviewed and approved by the appropriate stakeholders.
Approved By:
Position:
Signature:
Date:
Additional Approvals (if applicable):
This template provides a structured approach to managing cyber risks in maritime operations, ensuring alignment with IMO Resolution MSC.428(98) and promoting a secure, resilient maritime environment.
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