Superyachts are designed to be floating sanctuaries of luxury and privacy, but they are also prime targets for cybercriminals.
Hackers are drawn to these vessels not just for their high-value assets but also for the sensitive data, negotiations, and reputations they carry. From phishing attacks to network intrusions, cyber threats are evolving—and yacht owners, captains, and crew must be prepared.
This image and above: Getty Images
The Growing Threat of Cybercrime at Sea
“Yachts have what all hackers love: money, secrets, negotiations for deals, reputations, famous people…” says Alexandre Bayeux, founder of yacht cyber security firm Xperys. Cybercrime has become a sophisticated industry, and since 2020, mercenary hackers—once the tools of government agencies—have become available for hire for targeted attacks.
Between February and May 2020, cyberattacks against the maritime sector quadrupled, according to AstaaraCyber, a ship and port security firm. While commercial vessels are often targeted for operational disruptions, superyachts are different: criminals target the owners, guests, and financial transactions.
A yacht’s autonomy can give a false sense of security, but its constant connectivity is a double-edged sword, making it vulnerable to cyberattacks.
Credit: Adobe Stock
Common Cyber Threats for Superyachts
1. Blackmail and Espionage
Hackers can gain access to sensitive data through malware, spyware, or compromised crew credentials. This information can then be used for blackmail or financial fraud.
2. Invoice Fraud
With captains and managers handling frequent high-value transactions, fake invoices can slip through unnoticed. Urgency is often the tactic—if a request seems rushed, it’s more likely to be approved without scrutiny.
3. Operational System Attacks
Cybercriminals can tamper with navigation, communication, and security systems, sometimes through unsecured supplier access. Even non-malicious activities—like a technician updating firmware remotely—can expose vulnerabilities if not properly monitored.
4. Human Error: The Weakest Link
One of the biggest cyber risks on a yacht is human error. Clicking on phishing emails, using weak passwords, or plugging in infected USB devices can bypass even the most advanced security systems.
Credit: Adobe Stock
How to Secure Your Yacht Against Cyber Attacks
1. Follow the “CIA” Cybersecurity Model
Peter Broadhurst, senior VP of maritime safety at Inmarsat, describes cybersecurity as CIA:
- Confidentiality – Ensure that only authorized personnel have access to sensitive data.
- Integrity – Prevent GPS spoofing or unauthorized system tampering.
- Access Control – Restrict and monitor who can access what systems.
2. Train Your Crew
Crew training is the first line of defense. Everyone on board should be able to identify phishing scams, use strong passwords, and avoid risky online behavior.
3. Isolate and Secure Networks
Your yacht likely has multiple networks—guest Wi-Fi, crew networks, operational systems, and supplier access points. These must be isolated to prevent unauthorized cross-access.
4. Implement Cyber Risk Management Plans
Since January 2021, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) requires all safety management systems to include cyber risk management plans. These cover:
- Identifying all connected devices onboard.
- Managing password security and access control.
- Implementing network monitoring tools.
- Ensuring all ex-crew members lose access to sensitive systems.
5. Invest in Cybersecurity Services
Several specialized companies offer yacht-specific cyber protection, including:
- Xperys – Holistic cyber risk management.
- Bond TM – Superyacht technology security consultancy.
- CSS Platinum – Cyber insurance compliance solutions.
- Inmarsat Fleet Secure – A network security tool that monitors cyber threats in real-time.
Credit: Adobe Stock
A Final Word: Don’t Leave Windows Open
“In cybersecurity, there is no miracle technology to protect a yacht,” says Bayeux. Often, yachts have highly secured areas, but other vulnerabilities go unnoticed—what he calls the “armoured door and open window” syndrome.
Fortunately, cybersecurity does not require a massive investment—just awareness, training, and good practice. The easiest target is the least protected, so by implementing even basic security measures, your yacht becomes much harder to attack.
The modern pirate doesn’t use a sword or a speedboat—they use a laptop. Make sure your yacht is ready to defend against 21st-century pirates.
