Cyber-Terrorism Crimes And Their Impact On Maritime Transport Operations

The maritime transport sector, integral to global trade, has embraced advanced digital technologies for operational enhancement, yet this transformation has exposed vulnerabilities, making it a prime target for cyber-terrorism. Defined as using the use of information technology to disrupt critical infrastructure for political or ideological motives, cyber-terrorism threatens navigation systems, causes financial losses due to downtime and ransomware, and endangers human safety and the environment. Despite the critical importance, research gaps persist in understanding and mitigating these threats. This study aims to explore cyber-terrorism's impact on maritime operations, propose countermeasures, expand academic knowledge, identify vulnerabilities, develop security models and influence policy. Practically, it enhances security, reduces financial losses, protects the environment, and develops human capabilities, advocating for robust cybersecurity measures and international cooperation to safeguard maritime transport.