VIP Privacy Shield — secure devices, communications, and owner privacy

VIP Privacy Shield is a dedicated cybersecurity perimeter for the owner and close circle that provides:

• protection of personal devices (smartphones/laptops/tablets);
• secure communication channels for confidential discussions;
• protection against digital surveillance and interception attempts;
• incident readiness (including cases involving Starlink or the onboard network).

1) Personal device protection (bringing devices to a secure standard)

We configure devices so that:

• data remains protected even in case of loss/theft (encryption, secure screen lock);
• the risk of “silent” compromise is minimized (checks for suspicious profiles, certificates, traffic redirection);
• apps do not create unnecessary data leakage (permissions, secure settings for messengers/email/browsers);
• updates and critical security fixes are applied in a timely manner.

Result: devices are more resilient to attacks in untrusted environments (marinas, hotels, public networks).

2) Account protection (email, cloud services, messengers)

Most VIP-targeted attacks begin with account takeover. We:

• enable strong sign-in methods (two-factor authentication / passkeys);
• review active sessions and suspicious logins;
• remove settings abused by attackers (hidden forwarding, suspicious app permissions).

Result: the likelihood of “email/messenger hijacked — full access obtained” is dramatically reduced.

3) Secure channels for discussions and document exchange

We establish clear rules and configure tools so that:

• conversations take place over secure channels;
• it’s easy to confirm you’re speaking with the “right person” (protection against contact impersonation);
• documents are shared securely (access control, minimizing unnecessary distribution).

Result: sensitive topics are handled via channels resilient to interception and impersonation.

4) Onboard VIP communications zone (a separate secure network)

We create a dedicated secure “VIP communications perimeter” on the yacht:

• a separate Wi-Fi network for the owner;
• isolation from guest Wi-Fi and crew networks;
• preventing the owner’s devices from “coexisting” on the same network with unknown devices.

Result: guests and unknown devices cannot impact the owner’s privacy and security.

5) Anti-surveillance and anti-interception

We implement measures that reduce the risk of:

• connecting to rogue/fake Wi-Fi networks;
• traffic interception and connection “tampering”;
• tracking and unnecessary metadata leakage.

Result: a smaller digital footprint and fewer chances of covert surveillance.

6) Incident action plan (readiness without panic)

You receive concise “what to do” instructions if:

• there is suspicion of a device/account compromise;
• eavesdropping/impersonation is suspected;
• connectivity/Starlink is unstable, blocked, or compromised.

Result: faster actions, less downtime, reduced impact.

What you receive upon completion

• VIP devices configured to the agreed security standard;
• hardened accounts (email/cloud services/messengers);
• secure, working channels for confidential communications;
• a separate onboard VIP network with isolation;
• quick-reference guides and response scenarios + short training.

Navigation and OT Security: protection of critical onboard systems

We protect the yacht’s operational (OT) systems—the systems that directly underpin vessel control, navigational safety, and overall survivability. This includes not only ECDIS and engine control, but also safety systems such as fire detection and fire suppression, emergency alarms, sensors and automation, and other critical control loops.

The goal is to prevent unauthorized interference, reduce the risk of errors caused by data manipulation (including GPS spoofing), and make remote maintenance controlled, transparent, and secure.

1) Segmentation and strict isolation of OT zones (navigation, propulsion, safety)

OT systems are often connected—directly or indirectly—to “everyday” infrastructure (guest Wi-Fi, crew devices, office services, contractors). Without segmentation, a compromise in a non-critical area can become a pathway to critical systems.

We implement an architecture where:

• the network is separated into purpose-based zones: guest, crew/office, service devices, IT services, and a dedicated OT zone;
• within the OT zone, dedicated segments are created for navigation, propulsion/engine systems, and safety systems;
• connections between zones are restricted on a “only what is necessary” basis;
• contractor and new-device connections follow a controlled process: who, when, for how long, and with what permissions.

Result: incidents in guest/office networks do not propagate into navigation, propulsion, or safety systems, and the OT environment becomes manageable and more fault-tolerant.

2) Protecting navigation against GPS spoofing and data manipulation

GPS spoofing involves feeding equipment false position/speed/heading information, making navigation appear normal while the underlying data is manipulated. This increases the risk of course deviation and navigational incidents.

We deliver:

• analysis of how navigational data reaches ECDIS and related systems (sources, data paths, trust points);
• measures for early anomaly detection: plausibility checks, cross-source comparison (where available), and appropriate thresholds;
• alerting and a practical crew action scenario for suspected manipulation/interference.

Result: the risk of “silent” position manipulation is reduced, and the crew gains clear indicators and an actionable response procedure.

3) Controlled remote access to the engine room and OT systems

Remote access is essential for diagnostics and support, but it is often implemented unsafely (shared passwords, permanent contractor accounts, no logs, direct connections to systems). We turn remote maintenance into a controlled and verifiable process.

We implement:

• access via a secure gateway (no direct exposure of critical systems);
• “need-to-access” sessions with agreed time windows and automatic disablement after work is completed;
• multi-factor authentication (MFA) and named user accounts (instead of shared logins);
• the principle of least privilege for contractors and personnel;
• logging and audit trails: who connected, when, from where, and what actions were performed.

Result: service remains convenient, but becomes controlled and transparent, significantly reducing the risk of unauthorized access.

4) Protection of safety and survivability systems (Fire & Safety OT)

We include critical safety control loops in OT Security, including fire detection and fire suppression, emergency alarms and public address/alerting, sensors and automation, and other vital subsystems (depending on the yacht’s configuration).

For these systems we implement:

• isolation from guest and “everyday” networks;
• strict control of remote access and permissions;
• protection against unauthorized configuration changes;
• verification of logging and maintenance procedures.

Result: safety systems remain resilient against cyber interference and accidental misconfiguration, while maintenance remains safe and controlled.

5) Operational procedures (clear for captains and managers)

We implement practical rules and quick-reference guidance for crew and management:

• who can approve contractor remote access, and how justification and time limits are recorded;
• what to do if GPS spoofing/interference is suspected (a concise action checklist);
• how to isolate a segment quickly if an incident is suspected;
• what indicators to treat as “red flags” and who to notify.

What you receive upon completion

• a protected and manageable OT environment: navigation, propulsion, and safety systems are segmented and isolated;
• anti–GPS spoofing measures and a clear crew response protocol;
• controlled remote access (MFA, time windows, least privilege, logging);
• an operational guidance pack for the captain, chief engineer, and management.

24/7 Monitoring & Response (Cyber Guard)

24/7 Monitoring & Response is round-the-clock cyber protection for the yacht and connected services (communications, network, and key systems). It enables earlier detection of attacks, rapid containment, and restoration of operations without disruption and panic.

We structure the service so an incident does not escalate into operational downtime, loss of connectivity, or compromise of the owner’s privacy.

What the service includes

1) Continuous security monitoring (24/7 Monitoring)

We continuously track signs of threats and suspicious activity, for example:

• unusual login attempts to systems and accounts;
• suspicious network connections (unknown devices, atypical activity);
• scanning attempts, password guessing, and other indicators of attack;
• anomalies in connectivity and network infrastructure (including satellite links—subject to integration availability).

Result: issues are detected early—before they affect navigation, communications, or confidentiality.

2) Immediate response and threat neutralization (Response & Containment)

When an incident is detected, we follow proven procedures:

• isolate the issue (device/account/network segment isolation);
• contain spread (to protect other systems);
• remediate impact (close exposure, remove malicious changes, restore correct configurations);
• if required, switch to backup connectivity/access scenarios.

Result: the incident does not “spread” across the environment and is resolved quickly and safely.

3) Incident investigation (Digital Forensics)

When an incident occurs, it’s important to understand not only “how to fix it” but also what happened and why. We:

• collect and analyze technical evidence (event logs, system activity, network artifacts);
• identify the root cause and the attack vector;
• assess which systems and data may have been affected;
• define measures to prevent recurrence.

Result: a clear incident picture, an evidentiary trail, and concrete hardening steps.

4) Controlled recovery (Recovery)

After containment and investigation, we ensure:

• safe restoration of access and functionality;
• verification that systems/devices are “clean” and no hidden impact remains;
• return to normal operations with minimized repeat risk;
• recommendations to strengthen defenses based on findings.

Result: recovery is controlled—no “guesswork”—with minimal downtime.

5) Clear communication for captains and management

We organize coordination in a way that is practical for non-technical stakeholders:

• we pre-agree who is notified and how (owner/captain/chief engineer/manager);
• we use clear statuses: “detected — contained — remediated — restored”;
• we provide concise “what to do now” instructions if onboard action is required.

Result: decisions are made quickly, without confusion or overlapping responsibilities.

What is typically covered by monitoring

Depending on the yacht’s architecture and the agreed scope, monitoring can include:

• network infrastructure (Wi-Fi, routers, network segments);
• internet and satellite connectivity (including Starlink—subject to integration availability);
• crew workstations and office services;
• selected critical OT zones within an OT-Security program—by agreement.

What you receive

• 24/7 cyber watch: detection and early warning of issues;
• rapid response: isolation, containment, remediation;
• Digital Forensics: investigation with clear “what and why” conclusions;
• controlled recovery: safe return to normal operations;
• regular reporting (as agreed): concise and actionable;
• hardening recommendations based on observations and incident outcomes.

How the service works

1. Onboarding to monitoring (configuring event sources and detection rules).
2. Continuous monitoring and alerts when threats are detected.
3. Response based on agreed scenarios.
4. Investigation and reporting for incidents.
5. Recovery and improvements to reduce recurrence risk.

IACS/IMO Inspection Readiness & Crew Cyber Preparedness

We prepare the yacht for IACS/IMO inspections and requirements so that compliance is not “paper-only,” but practically proven and operationally effective. The outcome is clear procedures, a trained crew, controlled contractors, and cybersecurity embedded into day-to-day yacht operations.

What the service includes

1) Preparing for IACS/IMO inspections and requirements (without unnecessary bureaucracy)

We assess the current state and bring the yacht to practical readiness by:

• identifying critical systems (navigation, communications, OT/engineering control loops, safety systems);
• pinpointing key risks and weak points (contractor remote access, shared passwords, lack of logging, mixed networks);
• implementing measures that are demonstrable and effective in real operations.

Result: inspections become predictable, and the protection remains in place after the audit.

2) Yacht cyber risk management system (clear rules and accountability)

We establish a simple, workable cybersecurity governance framework:

• define roles and responsibilities (captain, chief engineer, ETO/IT, manager, service contractors);
• introduce core rules for access, updates, device onboarding, removable media, and remote support;
• create concise “what to do” procedures for incident situations.

Result: clear order instead of ad-hoc decisions—fewer crew and contractor mistakes.

3) Crew training in cybersecurity and anti-phishing practices

We train the crew in practical skills—not theory:

• how to recognize phishing, fake emails, and “urgent” payment/access requests;
• how to detect contact impersonation (messages “as if from the owner/manager”);
• how to use Wi-Fi and external networks safely (marina/hotel/contractor);
• what to do when a device/account compromise is suspected;
• how to act during an incident without making it worse.

Delivery is short, scenario-based sessions with real examples, checklists, and playbooks. Result: the crew becomes the “first line of defense,” significantly reducing human-factor risk.

4) Participation at the design and refit stage (New-Build / Refit)

We are ready to engage early—during the design of a new yacht or the planning of a refit— to develop cybersecurity as part of the yacht’s engineering architecture. We define requirements and solutions for IT/OT segmentation, secure remote access, logging and monitoring, resilience/backup concepts, and operational procedures, and we support integrators and contractors through acceptance.

Result: cybersecurity is built in “from day one,” avoiding costly late-stage rework, and aligned with IACS/IMO practical expectations and real operations.

5) Cybersecurity architecture and continuous improvement (for operations)

We help structure cybersecurity as part of the yacht’s operating model:

• define a clear network zoning approach (guest, crew, service, OT/navigation/propulsion, safety);
• set requirements for remote access, logging, and backup/resilience;
• implement rules that increase system resilience against errors and interference.

Result: cybersecurity becomes a manageable operational capability, not a fragmented set of measures.

6) Contractor oversight for new-build, refit, and maintenance

Contractors and integrators are a major source of cyber risk. We establish a controlled process:

• secure installation and configuration requirements;
• remote access issuance and revocation (time-limited access, named accounts, MFA);
• elimination of shared passwords and untracked connections;
• log review: who connected, when, and what was done;
• acceptance checks to ensure no “backdoors” remain (open ports, test accounts, unsafe settings).

Result: service remains efficient, but no longer becomes a “black box” and an easy entry point for attacks.

What you receive upon completion

• IACS/IMO inspection readiness with an emphasis on real, working controls;
• a clear procedure pack: access, remote support, incident response;
• trained crew + quick reference guides for phishing and incident actions;
• contractor control and maintenance rules that are easy to follow;
• evidence of implementation (checklists, test records, validation results).