Coast Guard to Increase Protection of US Marine Transport System

The U.S. Coast Guard has announced plans to implement an updated rule aimed at enhancing the protection of the country’s marine transportation system against existing and emerging cyber threats. The new rule, which will come into effect on July 16, will impose minimum cybersecurity requirements for U.S.-flagged vessels, outer continental shelf facilities, and other facilities subject to the Maritime Transportation Security Act of 2002.

The updated rule is designed to help vessel and maritime facility operators detect risks and address cybersecurity incidents more effectively. To achieve this, the rule requires operators to establish a cybersecurity plan that includes account and device security measures, as well as documentation for incident response procedures.

According to the Coast Guard, the new rule is necessary because the marine transportation system is critical infrastructure that is vulnerable to cyber threats. The agency noted that a successful cyber attack on the system could have serious consequences, including disruption of operations, financial loss, and even loss of life.

“As the maritime industry becomes increasingly reliant on technology, it’s essential that we take proactive steps to protect our marine transportation system from the ever-evolving threat of cyberattacks,” said Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Karl Schultz. “This updated rule will help ensure the safety and security of our nation’s maritime infrastructure, and it’s a critical step in our efforts to stay ahead of emerging threats.”

The final rule is the result of a comprehensive review process that involved input from industry stakeholders, government agencies, and other interested parties. The Coast Guard has also provided guidance and resources to help operators comply with the new requirements.

Key Provisions of the Rule

The updated rule includes several key provisions aimed at enhancing the cybersecurity of the marine transportation system. These include:

1. Cybersecurity Plan: Operators must develop and implement a comprehensive cybersecurity plan that includes measures to detect and respond to cyber threats. The plan must also include procedures for incident response, mitigation, and recovery.
2. Account and Device Security Measures: Operators must implement account and device security measures to prevent unauthorized access to their systems. This includes the use of strong passwords, multi-factor authentication, and regular password changes.
3. Documentation: Operators must maintain documentation of their cybersecurity plan, including incident response procedures, network diagrams, and system inventories.
4. Risk Assessment: Operators must conduct regular risk assessments to identify potential vulnerabilities in their systems and take steps to address them.
5. Training and Awareness: Operators must provide training and awareness programs for their personnel to help them understand cyber threats and how to prevent them.

Compliance and Enforcement

The Coast Guard will enforce the new rule through a combination of inspections, audits, and other compliance measures. Operators who fail to comply with the requirements may face penalties, including fines and other sanctions.

“We take our responsibility to protect the marine transportation system seriously, and we will work closely with industry stakeholders to ensure that they are in compliance with this updated rule,” said Capt. Melissa Rivera, Chief of the Coast Guard’s Office of Port and Facility Compliance. “We recognize that this may require some adjustments for operators, but we believe that these measures are necessary to protect our nation’s maritime infrastructure from cyber threats.”

Industry Reaction

The updated rule has been welcomed by industry stakeholders, who recognize the importance of enhancing cybersecurity in the marine transportation system.

“This rule is a critical step forward in protecting our nation’s maritime infrastructure from cyber threats,” said John P. Huston, President of the American Shipping Company. “We appreciate the Coast Guard’s efforts to work with industry stakeholders to develop a rule that is both effective and practical for operators to implement.”

Conclusion

The updated rule announced by the U.S. Coast Guard is a critical step in enhancing the protection of the country’s marine transportation system against cyber threats. By requiring operators to establish comprehensive cybersecurity plans, implement account and device security measures, and maintain documentation for incident response procedures, the rule will help prevent successful cyber attacks on the system. The Coast Guard’s efforts to work closely with industry stakeholders to ensure compliance with the rule are also commendable. With the implementation of this updated rule, the marine transportation system will be better equipped to address emerging threats and ensure the safety and security of our nation’s maritime infrastructure.