The maritime industry has become a prime target for hackers. In the last few years, it has seen a steep increase in the number of shipping-related cyberattacks. The recent surge marks a new and pressing challenge for ports and maritime industry. From ransomware attacks that target critical shipping systems to data breaches that expose sensitive operations, the stakes continue to rise.
To address these risks, the United States Coast Guard has introduced a new cybersecurity rule aimed at safeguarding the maritime transportation system. Workers at ports and throughout the maritime industry should be familiar with these initiatives.
Understanding the Coast Guard’s Cybersecurity Rule
Effective July 16, 2025, a new rule aims to bridge the gap between maritime operations and robust digital security. The rule seeks to safeguard vulnerabilities within Maritime Transportation Security Act (MTSA) regulations, which apply to US-flagged vessels, port operators and cargo terminals, other maritime facilities, and critical infrastructure.
Key requirements include:
- Cyber Risk Assessments: MTSA-regulated entities must conduct comprehensive risk assessments to identify potential vulnerabilities.
- Cybersecurity Plans: MTSA-regulated entities should integrate cyber risk management procedures into their existing security plans.
- Incident Reporting: Any cybersecurity-related incidents must be promptly reported to the Coast Guard and other relevant authorities.
The final rule also includes a solicitation for comments on potential two-to-five-year delays for implementation aboard U.S.-flagged vessels. Comments on potential delays as discussed in Section VII of the final rule’s preamble must be submitted by March 18, 2025.
Prioritizing Compliance
Ensuring compliance with the Coast Guard’s cybersecurity rule entails more than marking a regulatory checkbox; it’s a mission-critical step toward improved operational resilience. MTSA-regulated entities must designate a Cybersecurity Officer (CySO) who will be responsible for implementing and maintaining the requirements. Compliance ought to safeguard operational technology (OT), reduce attack surfaces, and protect business continuity.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Failure to meet the Coast Guard’s cybersecurity requirements may result in serious consequences. These could include hefty fines, loss of operating licenses, delayed operations, and reputational damage. Worse, a failure to protect systems could result in catastrophic maritime incidents.
Steps to Prepare
Meeting the cybersecurity rule’s requirements might feel overwhelming. Below are some steps that could ease the path toward compliance:
- Conduct a Cybersecurity Risk Assessment
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- Identify and document critical systems and their vulnerabilities.
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- Rate each risk based on its likelihood and potential impact on operations.
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- Perform penetration tests to uncover weaknesses in IT and OT systems.
- Update Security Plans
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- Integrate the insights from your risk assessment into your Facility Security Plan or Vessel Security Plan.
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- Define clear protocols for preventing, detecting, and responding to cyber threats.
- Set Up Monitoring and Incident Response
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- Implement continuous monitoring systems that detect and log unusual behaviors.
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- Develop a robust incident response plan that specifies the steps to contain and recover from attacks.
- Train Your Staff
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- Provide cybersecurity workshops to maritime employees.
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- Ensure crew members are equipped to recognize phishing attempts, ransomware threats, and other hazards.
- Get Help
Understanding maritime-specific cybersecurity is not an easy task. You might consider working with a firm that specializes in designing and implementing compliant security solutions for marine operators.
Resources and Tools
Here are some additional tools and resources that could simplify the compliance process:
Stay Ahead of the Curve
The Coast Guard’s new rule might be just the beginning. Looking ahead, maritime cybersecurity regulations could become more stringent.
Companies might consider:
- Monitoring updates to Coast Guard and MTSA regulations
- Regular reviews and updates of their cybersecurity measures
- Taking a proactive approach to protect OT systems against threats like AI-driven cyberattacks
Preparing for the Coast Guard’s cybersecurity rule isn’t just about compliance; it’s about safeguarding operations, team members, and the maritime ecosystem at large. Concerned companies might begin by assessing current practices, investing in appropriate tools, and fostering a culture of cybersecurity awareness.
