As physical security at ports becomes more rigorous, criminals are increasingly targeting staff to sustain their illegal activities. The new Belgian PortAware campaign aims to make port workers and ship crews more resistant to criminal influence.
Manipulation of staff
As logistics gateways, ports – including North Sea Port – are highly attractive targets for criminals. As a result, security measures are constantly being strengthened. This encourages criminals to adapt their tactics: they are increasingly relying on so-called social engineering. By exploiting trust, peer pressure, or fear, they persuade staff to share information or cooperate.
Responding appropriately
Awareness is the most effective defence against criminal influence. Using a website, videos, printed materials, and, in the future, e-learning modules, employees gain understanding of the tactics criminals employ, such as manipulation and trust exploitation. By recognising these mechanisms, staff can respond more swiftly and with greater awareness.
Annelies Verlinden, Minister for Justice and the North Sea: “The people who work in our ports and on ships play a key role in the security of our logistics chain. With this campaign, we are helping them to recognise suspicious situations and respond appropriately.”
Cooperation as a strength
Although some people have malicious intentions, the maritime sector is a close-knit community. In ports and on ships, people often work together in a spirit of trust. That is a strength: anyone facing a difficult situation is never alone. A conversation with a trusted person helps to find a way out.
Insights from the field
PortAware is an initiative by the Directorate-General for Shipping of the Federal Public Service Mobility and Transport and the National Drugs Commission. Various partners, including the police, the public prosecutor’s office, and the ports, have offered valuable input. Ghent University (UGent) has also shared important insights to help staff become more resilient. Thanks to this input, PortAware remains closely aligned with real-world conditions on the work floor. Staff who know they can set boundaries protect themselves and the entire sector.
Ine Van Wymersch, National Drugs Commissioner, states: “What can you do yourself? How do you deal with suspicious behaviour or situations? Real-life scenarios with practical solutions – that’s what makes this campaign unique. All port staff and seafarers deserve these practical tools, so that everyone feels more confident. A safe working environment is everyone’s responsibility, and resilient employees are at the heart of it.”
Recognise, set boundaries, report anonymously
Anyone who recognises a suspicious situation in and around North Sea Port and sets clear boundaries should also report it (anonymously):
For the Belgian part of our port, this can be done via the reporting platform www.PortWatch.be. The police will follow up on the reports.
For the Dutch part of our port area, this can be done via Melden - Veilige Zeehavens Zeeland | West-Brabant.
Discover more about the campaign here.
Image: North Sea Port
