In this example some writer for "Yahoo" picks up and mangles another story from a "security" firm commenting on AIS viewing on the Web by such sites as "Ships Finder". The concern being that anyone with internet access can track a ship even without there own AIS receiver and display.
The story has its origins in a 10 year old spasm of angst by a Maritime Committee, as follows:
" Maritime security - AIS ship data
In relation to the issue of freely available automatic identification system (AIS)-generated ship data on the world-wide web, the MSC agreed that the publication on the world-wide web or elsewhere of AIS data transmitted by ships could be detrimental to the safety and security of ships and port facilities and was undermining the efforts of the Organization and its Member States to enhance the safety of navigation and security in the international maritime transport sector. The Committee condemned the regrettable publication on the world-wide web, or elsewhere, of AIS data transmitted by ships and urged Member Governments, subject to the provisions of their national laws, to discourage those who make available AIS data to others for publication on the world-wide web, or elsewhere from doing so.
In addition, the Committee condemned those who irresponsibly publish AIS data transmitted by ships on the world-wide web, or elsewhere, particularly if they offer services to the shipping and port industries. "

So 10 years latter--what is the issue? Have criminals used their laptops to track and attack a Carnival Cruise ship, a freighter in NY harbor? You could by a stand alone AIS for about $800 and do away with the WEB , altogether.

Meanwhile the Coast Guard has implemented Rescue 22 with AIS and MMSI enhanced VHF and I really enjoy my AIS receiver more each day. For instance I can see all the traffic in my Harbor well before I even cast off the last dock line when the harbor itself is blocked in line of sight from radar. Last weekend I hailed Captain Dan a tug by name and exchanged some information when before I would have to just take a shot at calling "the tug proceeding eastbound off Glen Cove on Long Island Sound" on Ch 13 or 16. Its a great aid to navigation. I admit turning it off in NY Harbor because there are to many targets.