The IMO has launched a new toolkit that will help the global maritime industry better respond to evolving "insider threats".

Insider threat refers to the risk arising from an employee working in or for the maritime industry carrying out or enabling a security incident, whether through lack of awareness, complacency or malice.

For terrorists and organised criminals who constantly seek to exploit vulnerabilities in port and ship security controls, insiders can offer a tactical advantage, as they have privileged access to secure locations, objects or sensitive information.

To address this problem, IMO partnered with the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) to develop the new Insider Threat Toolkit. The toolkit outlines a number of protection measures based on best practices, such as vetting and screening, access control measures, patrolling, surveillance and monitoring, advanced technologies and the use of artificial intelligence.

Mr Andrew Clarke, Technical Officer of the IMO´s Maritime Security Section, said:

"We are currently facing an extremely diverse and challenging set of global maritime security threats and risks. A ´One UN´ approach involving all partner UN organisations and agencies is essential, and we are grateful to ICAO for its strong support in developing this new toolkit to address the threat from maritime insiders. It is crucial to continue to develop new products and training in an evolving world, and to assist Member States in their efforts to fully implement all maritime security measures".

The toolkit can be used by any organisation operating in the maritime environment, including maritime administrations, designated authorities, shipping companies, port operators and other maritime stakeholders.

News and image obtained: "Organización Marítima Internacional"

https://www.imo.org/es/MediaCentre/Paginas/WhatsNew-2116.aspx