Interview: ABS Group's Michael Devolld on Managing Cybersecurity

File image courtesy ABS

As part of our Career Connect Washington Maritime Sector ongoing work, we actively track, document, and inform about emerging technologies and trends. Just a decade ago, a ship simply dropped out of digital contact when it went over the horizon, and hackers had little if any access to its systems. With the advent of ubiquitous satellite broadband, that is changing quickly, and owners are getting used to a new reality: cyber criminals have discovered shipping. To learn more about the current threat picture and the steps that companies can take to protect their assets, TME spoke with Michael Devolld, Director of Cybersecurity at ABS Consulting.

Michael, could you start by telling us a little bit about yourself and your history with ABS?

I've been with ABS Consulting for about a year now. Before that, I was with Royal Caribbean Group for about three years, helping to stand up their maritime cybersecurity program for their fleet. Prior to that, I had a 21-year career with the Coast Guard, ending with two years as Chief of Maritime Cyber Readiness at USCG Cyber Command.

Go to this link to read the full interview published by The Maritime Executive https://maritime-executive.com/article/interview-abs-group-s-michael-devolld-on-managing-cybersecurity