Maritime trade is a vital component of the global supply chain, supporting the efficient movement of goods worldwide and increasingly relying on advanced technology. The industry faces increasing cybersecurity challenges as sophisticated attacks rise and regulatory standards tighten. Threats targeting information technology (IT) and operational technology (OT) systems are putting maritime operators under pressure to protect their assets, maintain compliance, and secure access to cyber insurance. Traditional defensive approaches are proving insufficient, highlighting the need for a more proactive cybersecurity strategy.
Beacon Technology Group and Akimbo Technologies Inc. have formed a strategic alliance to address these challenges. The partnership combines Beacon’s IT cybersecurity platform, Cyfax, with Akimbo’s OT cyber defense system, DEFENSA, to create a comprehensive security framework for global marine operations.
Beacon recently launched Cyfax, an external attack surface management platform, at BlackHat USA. The platform uses deception technology and automated penetration testing to provide real-time cyber posture insights, alerts, and compliance reporting. Akimbo’s DEFENSA system offers real-time threat detection and remediation for OT environments. Together, these solutions provide integrated protection for both onshore and offshore operations.
The Beacon-Akimbo partnership aims to address the industry’s key challenges, including sophisticated cyberattacks, limited access to cyber insurance due to poor risk management, and stricter regulations from bodies like the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and U.S. Coast Guard (USCG).
“Paradigm Shift”
Rob Vazquez, CEO of Beacon Technology Group, emphasized the need for the maritime industry to shift from a reactive to an offensive cybersecurity strategy. “The maritime industry, much like other critical sectors, is moving beyond traditional defensive postures. The time has come for a paradigm shift that embraces offensive strategies. This alliance provides that shift, delivering proactive, offense-driven solutions to a sector crucial to the global supply chain,” Vazquez said.
Behrouz Poustchi, CEO of Akimbo Technologies, stated that conventional defensive approaches are no longer sufficient and that proactive solutions are needed to protect against evolving cyber threats. “The partnership we are announcing today brings together two powerful cyber solutions, enabling the global commercial marine industry to protect itself from ever-evolving cyber threats. Building a defensive digital wall and hoping for the best is outdated. Today’s maritime industry requires proactive solutions to combat sophisticated adversaries,” Poustchi said.
The partnership aims to help maritime operators meet regulatory and insurance requirements by providing real-time monitoring and automated threat defense.
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