Guardforce AI (NASDAQ:GFAI) Co Limited has announced that its subsidiary Handshake Networking Limited has developed an automated marine scanning service designed to address key security vulnerabilities in the maritime transportation industry.
Subsequently, the company has launched the Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) offering with one of the world's leading operators of global container vessels based in Hong Kong.
"We are pleased to announce the launch of our automated marine scanning platform with one of the premier operators of global container vessels,” Guardforce AI (NASDAQ:GFAI) chairman Terence Yap said in a statement.
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“Prior to our selection, our new automated marine scanning service was heavily evaluated by this customer, providing strong validation of the robustness of this cyber intelligence offering and application within the maritime transportation industry,” he added.
At the end of 2021, there were an estimated 63,000 trading vessels in service around the world, each with complex computer systems for managing the engines, fuel and navigation as well as email, software updates, and access to cloud applications, Guardforce AI noted, citing recent shipping fleet statistics from UK Department for Transport.
“With rapid digitalization of the industry, more and more global shipping companies have come to realize the economic impact of cybercrimes and the need for efficient solutions to help prevent these risks,” Yap said, adding that the company anticipates demand for its solutions to grow given the unprecedented threat of cybersecurity attacks to the shipping industry and the global community.
Richard Stagg, managing director of Handshake, said: "International logistics is a prime target for cyber-attacks and threats directed at vessels can affect crew, cargo and even ports - as well as the smooth functioning of the ships' operations. Through our SasS offering, we can provide our customers with a truly cost-effective solution that encourages frequent security checks.”
Handshake has more than 17 years of experience as a provider of information security services, Stagg said, noting it is well-positioned to efficiently assess information security on container vessels despite technical constraints.
“We look forward to accelerating the commercial rollout of our marine scanning service, which we believe will play an invaluable role in defending corporations and critical infrastructure worldwide,” he added.
Guardforce AI is a global integrated security solutions provider focused on developing robotic solutions and information security services that complement its well-established secured logistics business.
Contact the author at jon.hopkins@proactiveinvestors.com