Cybersecurity in the European Union port sector in light of the digital transformation and the COVID-19 pandemic

Abstract

The process of digital transformation, which is playing a fundamental role in the current COVID-19 worldwide panorama, has impacted all sectors of society, including the port sector. Albeit being a conservative sector, reluctant to change, it has been receptive to the opportunities offered by new information and communication systems and technologies, since they increase the efficiency of operation and, consequently, the competitive advantage of the port in the market. However, the digital era also brings new risks and threats, such as cyber-attacks. For various reasons, especially the lack of awareness about cybersecurity, such risks and threats are not being properly considered by the sector, leaving it vulnerable to attacks of this nature. In view of the importance of this sector to the EU Member States, given its status of critical infrastructure and its importance for the European economies, and the rise of cyber-attacks since the COVID-19 pandemic outbreak, it is vital to analyze the issue of cybersecurity in ports in view of digital transformation and understand the current situation.

Digital resilience framework for managing crisis: A qualitative study in the higher education and research sector

“…Yet, the existing framework (Boh et al, 2023) lacks providing any information about changing roles and responsibilities in managing crises. Literature depicts that the recent crisis has urged organizations to change the roles and responsibilities of their employees due to cybersecurity issues (Bocayuva, 2021; Burrell, 2020). Therefore, the current study has explored and reported redefining roles, responsibilities, and tasks as a major dimension in the adaptation stage to manage the crisis effectively.…”

“…Yet, the existing framework (Boh et al, 2023) lacks providing any information about changing roles and responsibilities in managing crises. Literature depicts that the recent crisis has urged organizations to change the roles and responsibilities of their employees due to cybersecurity issues (Bocayuva, 2021;Burrell, 2020).…”

Resilience Strategies of Ports against Covid-19 in Terms of Chaos Theory

“…One of these unique outcomes is an accelerating trend towards remote business communication and information technologies. According to Bocayuva [8] , the pandemic accelerated digitalization, which in turn requires European Union ports to take strong measures against cyber-attacks.…”

“… [49] Softening interstate and state-vessel relations on health crisis. [8] Information exchange and rising awareness of cyber-security is a vital issue on such pandemic crisis. [13] Study revealed that localization, near shoring, 3-D printing and teleworking activities could emerge for the near future.…”

Innovations and smart technologies at Brazilian ports

“…Although the maritime sector has been traditionally conservative and reluctant to change, it has become increasingly receptive to the opportunities offered by new information and communication systems and technologies. This is because they improve operational efficiency, enhancing the port's competitive advantage in the market (Bocayuva, 2021).…”