Protection and Risks of ENC Data Regarding Safety of Navigation

Abstract

In accordance with SOLAS Convention amendments concerning navigational equipment (Chapter V: Safety of Navigation ; Regulation 19: Carriage Requirements for Shipborne Navigational Systems and Equipment), ECDIS (Electronic Chart Display and Information System) and ENCs (Electronic Navigational Chart) should be implemented on existing and new built cargo and passenger vessels. This process started with 1st of July 2012. In accordance with amendments, the number of vessels which should and/or must carry ECDIS equipment onboard increases significantly. It applies both on national and world fleet vessels, depending from their size and type. With the objective to protect the official electronic navigational charts, the International Hydrographic Organization adopted the security plan and standards of data protection have been accepted (IHO Data Protection Scheme: Standard S- 63, edition 1.1.1). With present, increasing expansion of internet-based communications, computer users (that could be unqualified and, even more important, unauthorized persons) are allowed to access ENC software and official electronic charts in various ways, thereby opening the possibility/opportunity of abusive actions. The proposed paper structurally analyzes the usage and security implications of mentioned, illegal software. Illegal ENC security issues are discussed in the context of safety-of-navigation related possible – real scenarios using unproven and non-validated electronic navigational charts.