🎙️ Episode 111: Cyber Threats on the High Seas, a Conversation with Dr. Gary Kessler

Guest: Dr. Gary Kessler, Co-Founder, Maritime Hacking Village at DEF CON

Episode Overview: Cybersecurity is often underestimated in maritime—but Dr. Gary Kessler is on a mission to change that. A pioneer in digital forensics and co-founder of the new Maritime Hacking Village at DEF CON, Gary joins us to break down the risks, realities, and next steps for a sector still catching up to the cyber age. From AIS spoofing to autonomous vessel vulnerabilities, this episode covers the full threat landscape—and what we can do about it.

Key Points:

Maritime Hacking Village at DEF CON: Why it matters that maritime now has a dedicated space at the world’s most iconic hacker conference.
AIS & GPS Spoofing Risks: How easy it is to manipulate navigation systems—and the implications for global trade.
AI, Autonomy & the Cyber Frontier: What happens when bad data meets automation—and why “garbage in, danger out” is the new threat model.
Cybersecurity ≠ Cyber Awareness: Dr. Kessler argues for focusing on information protection—not just computers and networks.
Workforce Development & Culture: We need digitally aware seafarers—and secure systems built by better-trained developers.
Ports, Protocols & the Bigger Picture: From NMEA vulnerabilities to smart port exposure, the entire supply chain is at risk.
The Policy Gap & Industry Readiness: If IMO can't lead, can insurers and charterers enforce change?

Learn More: 🎧 Listen to Episode 67: Navigating the Cyber Seas – Securing Maritime Operations in the Digital Age 🎧 Check out Episode 46 with Youri Hart for insight into digital compliance and regulations like UR E26.

Tune in Now: Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and more! Watch the episode on YouTube.

Music by: Peg and The Rejected 'King of SKA' Art Work By: GA Design Produced by: Chris Aversano

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