Cyberattacks Top Transport Risk for 5th Year – Allianz Report

For the fifth consecutive year, cyberattacks are the leading risk facing the transportation sector, according to a new annual report from international insurer Allianz. The disruption caused by the Covid-19 pandemic has faded as a primary concern, but computer piracy remains a significant threat to transporters. This risk is followed by changes in regulations and an excess of regulations.

Cyber Sabotage Takes the Lead

Today’s most feared storms at sea are invisible, attacking from within. Cyber risks affect all sectors of transportation: road, rail, air, and maritime.

Did You Know? The Allianz report indicates that weather-related risks have been downgraded – a first in the history of the merchant transport industry.

Because 90% of raw materials and goods are transported by ship, the maritime sector must prioritize protection from the very beginning – during the construction of ports and vessels, according to Hervé Deiss, an economist and founder of Ports and Corridors.

“Three centuries ago, pirates attacked ships at sea by boarding them. Today, it’s computer pirates who sabotage remotely. They are capable of taking control of navigation tools or traffic monitoring due to vulnerabilities and weaknesses in the IT protection of shipowners or an equipment chain actor. But it is impossible to avoid IT these days. There is also a global convention that requires operators of new ports to protect themselves. I think of examples in Africa, in Côte d’Ivoire or Gabon. Their port performance is at stake. These connections and protections increase the value and fluidity of port transport.”

Regulatory Changes Rise in Prominence

The Allianz report highlights a new development that emerged last year, impacting all sectors of merchant transport: taxes and fluctuations in national and international regulations.

Expert Insight: The increasing reliance on technology within the automotive industry, coupled with complex supply chains, creates new vulnerabilities to cyberattacks. Protecting this interconnected system requires comprehensive IT security measures and ongoing staff training.

The Automotive Industry in the Crosshairs

Yann Bonnet, an expert and former Director General of the Campus Cyber in Paris, notes that pirates are increasingly targeting the automotive industry. The growing number of subcontractors involved in vehicle construction, combined with the increasing integration of computers and technology, makes the entire construction and delivery chain more vulnerable.

“Equipment manufacturers, dealerships, automakers, and designers of IT equipment for cars or trucks must equip themselves with IT protection tools. But they must also train all personnel in IT monitoring to enable them to maintain good reflexes. They must be able to monitor their tools and detect possible malfunctions.”

Economic and Armed Conflicts

Insurers estimate that the political climate of 2025, marked by protectionism, customs duties, and regional conflicts, has disrupted nearly 20% of global trade.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary risk to the transportation sector?

According to Allianz’s annual report, cyberattacks are the leading risk to the transportation sector for the fifth consecutive year.

Which sectors of transportation are affected by cyber risks?

Cyber risks affect all sectors of transportation, including road, rail, air, and maritime.

What other risks are impacting the transportation sector?

Changes in regulations and an excess of regulations, as well as economic and armed conflicts, are also impacting the transportation sector.

As the transportation industry becomes increasingly reliant on technology, how might the strategies for mitigating cyber risks evolve in the coming years?