Blockchain applications and cybersecurity threats: A review

This paper provides a brief overview of the development of blockchain technology, with reference to Bitcoin as the main platform and the cryptocurrency of the same name that runs on top of it. A major part of the paper deals with some of numerous applications of blockchain technology in different areas of human life and work. Special attention is given to actual and prospective deployments of blockchain technology in maritime business and industry. The paper also provides an overview of the most common types of cyber-attacks on blockchain networks.