# Resecurity Warns About Cyber Attacks Targeting Port Authorities and Maritime Operators

- Link: https://www.military.africa/2026/06/resecurity-warns-about-cyber-attacks-targeting-port-authorities-and-maritime-operators/
- Published: 2026-06-13T21:01:18+01:00
- Author: Military Africa

[Resecurity](https://www.resecurity.com/) (USA), a leading cybersecurity firm, [has issued a stark warning](https://www.resecurity.com/blog/article/the-anubis-ransomware-attack-on-the-adriatic-port-authority)
about the growing wave of cyber attacks targeting **port authorities** and **maritime
operators**. Their latest threat intelligence highlights a surge in sophisticated
attacks—ranging from ransomware to supply chain intrusions—aimed at disrupting global
shipping, port operations, and critical maritime infrastructure. The company forecasts
that these **cyber threats will intensify through 2030**, driven by geopolitical
tensions and the increasing digitalization of the maritime sector. Marine insurance
and war-risk premiums surged drastically, further crippling cargo transit through
the major global trade hubs.

The wars in Iran and Ukraine, have **profoundly impacted Africa** through severe
energy shocks, soaring living costs, and disrupted supply chains. These systemic
macroeconomic impacts, global companies have documented at least **$25 billion in
direct financial losses**. While these conflicts are geographically distant, Africa’s
reliance on imports and global supply networks has made its economies highly vulnerable
to these external disruptions. 

![](https://www.military.africa/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Screenshot-from-2026-
06-13-09-55-04.png)

The convergence of operational technology (OT) and information technology (IT) in
ports has created new vulnerabilities, with attackers targeting these integration
points. According to International Maritime Organization (IMO), the strategic significance
of maritime infrastructure—handling up to 90% of global trade—makes it a prime target
for disruptive and espionage-driven cyber operations.

The maritime sector’s rapid digital transformation—integrating technology platforms—
has expanded the attack surface, making it easier for adversaries to exploit vulnerabilities.
Hybrid warfare tactics such as GPS spoofing and AIS manipulation are increasingly
prevalent, especially in regions affected by conflict. To increase awareness among
security professionals, Resecurity [released](https://www.resecurity.com/blog/article/the-anubis-ransomware-attack-on-the-adriatic-port-authority)
a case study with an analysis of Anubis Ransomware affecting one of the major port
authorities in the EU, highlighting an example of confirmed malicious cyber activity
with kinetic effects.

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Recent severe ransomware attack orchestrated by the **Anubis ransomware group** 
targeted the **Adriatic Port Authority** in EU, affected its operations and disrupted
maritime logistics across the region. In the result of the targeted attack sensitive
data including detailed safety plans, staff members records, and communications 
have been stolen. Anubis ransomware is a notorious malware strain known for its 
ability to encrypt victims’ files and demand hefty ransoms in cryptocurrency for
their release. Cybecriminals were demanding 10 million dollars to return victim 
back to operations.

Cyber attacks targeting port authorities have proven capable of causing disruptions
and economic damage comparable to those inflicted by kinetic attacks. For example,
cyber attack against **Transnet, which operates major South African ports**, disrupted
container operations at the ports of Cape Town and Durban. A significant build-up
in containerized cargo was observed after the port resumed operations a week. This
equivalence was vividly illustrated during the Iran-Israel cyber conflict, particularly
with the Israeli cyber operation against **Iran’s Shahid Rajaee Port** in the past,
and the **Port of Nagoya** ransomware attack which brought operations to a standstill
and mirrored the chaos of a physical strike.

Resecurity provides a comprehensive portfolio of cybersecurity solutions and services
designed to protect these environments from emerging threats – by proactive [vulnerability assessment](https://www.resecurity.com/vapt).
The experts highlighted the importance of implementing best practices for maritime
cyber risk management, which are integrated into the International Safety Management(
ISM) Code and Safety Management Systems (SMS), and the International Association
of Ports and Harbors (IAPH) Cybersecurity Guidelines.

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