DNV Acquires CyberOwl: A Major Step Towards Strengthening Cyber Security in the Maritime Industry
In a significant move to bolster cyber security within the maritime sector, DNV, a leading independent assurance and risk management provider, has acquired CyberOwl, a global expert in cyber risk monitoring and threat management for maritime vessels. This strategic partnership aims to create one of the world’s largest specialists in maritime systems cyber security, addressing the pressing need for enhanced cyber defenses in an industry increasingly reliant on digital technologies.
The Growing Cyber Threat Landscape
As the maritime industry embraces digitalization and automation, it faces a myriad of new vulnerabilities. The implementation of digitally connected systems onboard vessels has led to a staggering increase in cyber incidents. A typical fleet of 30 cargo vessels now experiences an average of 80 cyber incidents annually, highlighting the urgent need for robust cyber security measures.
The acquisition comes at a critical juncture, as the sector grapples with a wave of new cyber security regulations. The International Association of Classification Societies (IACS) has introduced stringent requirements for maritime organizations to govern, identify, protect, detect, respond to, and recover from cyber incidents. Additionally, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) mandates that vessel owners, operators, and managers establish comprehensive cyber security management systems. Alarmingly, only 56% of maritime professionals express confidence in their ability to meet these regulatory requirements.
DNV’s Commitment to Cyber Security
Remi Eriksen, Group President and CEO of DNV, emphasized the importance of integrating cyber security into the maritime industry’s growth strategy. “Digital technologies must continue to scale for a safer, more efficient, and greener maritime industry. But the benefits of digitalization and automation cannot be realized without a robust approach to cyber security,” he stated. The collaboration with CyberOwl is set to enhance compliance and reduce cyber risks across the maritime supply chain, providing services that cater to all aspects of an organization’s cyber security needs throughout a vessel’s lifecycle.
CyberOwl’s Innovative Solutions
CyberOwl brings to the table its advanced analytics capabilities, which empower vessel operators to identify, monitor, and manage cyber threats effectively. The company’s Medulla platform, along with its managed security services, assists owners and operators of hundreds of vessels in maintaining asset inventories, monitoring for escalating cyber risks, and evaluating the effectiveness of security controls and policies. This innovative approach not only aids in regulatory compliance but also enhances the overall security posture of maritime organizations.
A Powerful Alliance
The merger of DNV and CyberOwl represents a formidable alliance in the maritime sector. Daniel Ng, CEO of CyberOwl, articulated the mission of the partnership: “DNV and CyberOwl are on a mission to help the shipping industry boost its security posture by combining cyber security expertise with longstanding experience in the industry’s technical, operational, and commercial realities.” With DNV’s 160 years of maritime heritage and CyberOwl’s deep expertise in threat monitoring and incident management, the collaboration is poised to advance cyber-physical safety, sustainability, and resilience in the sector.
Expanding Global Reach
The acquisition significantly enhances DNV’s maritime cyber security and emergency response services portfolio, establishing one of the world’s largest specialists in maritime cyber security. With a presence in five global shipping hubs—Oslo, London, Singapore, Hamburg, and Piraeus—the combined entity will leverage DNV’s global network of 3,500 maritime risk experts and 500 cyber security specialists. This extensive expertise will address all aspects of a maritime organization’s cyber security needs, safeguarding complex IT and industrial control system environments.
A Strategic Growth Initiative
DNV’s acquisition of CyberOwl is part of a broader strategy to expand its cyber security services. Earlier this year, DNV established one of Europe’s fastest-growing cyber security businesses, DNV Cyber, by merging its existing cyber security operations with two recently acquired companies, Nixu and Applied Risk. This strategic growth initiative underscores DNV’s commitment to enhancing cyber security across various sectors, particularly in the maritime industry.
Conclusion
The acquisition of CyberOwl by DNV marks a pivotal moment in the maritime industry’s approach to cyber security. As digital technologies continue to transform the sector, the partnership aims to provide comprehensive solutions that not only mitigate cyber risks but also ensure compliance with evolving regulations. With a shared vision of enhancing safety, sustainability, and resilience, DNV and CyberOwl are set to lead the charge in fortifying the maritime industry against the growing threat of cyber incidents.
The products and services herein described in this press release are not endorsed by The Maritime Executive.