In a world where terrorism, organized crime, illegal immigrants and thefts have become constant on a global level in every aspect of transportation, the transport sector has not been spared. Recent terrorist activities points out that ports, as a major and initial point of maritime transport, are still not attractive targets for this type of illegal activity. Nevertheless, it is necessary to apply preventative measures to reduce the opportunities of a terrorist attack within the entire transport sector. Most studies concerning the shipping industry are pointing out the fact that ships can be used as a tool for planned terrorist attacks, especially when they are in a port. Accordingly, a series of measures and regulations, relevant to the implementation and application of an appropriate system to protect ships and ports internationally, have been adopted. One of these measures is International Code of Security of Ships and Ports (ISPS code). The purpose of this paper is to emphasize the importance of a common approach of coordination and standardization of ISPS application in ports, and making it efficient on a regional level. Furthermore, its intention is to highlight the direct and indirect impact that may arise from the illegal activities, which could result in negative modal shift whose realization is one of the priorities of the European Union.