President Biden is poised to sign an executive order aimed at bolstering the government’s capacity to address cybersecurity threats in the maritime sector, particularly amid concerns about potential vulnerabilities that China could exploit to disrupt critical infrastructure in the United States.
Anne Neuberger, the deputy national security adviser for cyber and emerging technology, provided a preview of the executive order to reporters, highlighting its focus on empowering the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to respond more effectively to maritime cybersecurity risks.
The order is expected to grant the U.S. Coast Guard broader authority to establish minimum cybersecurity standards at ports nationwide. Additionally, it will allocate $20 billion for port infrastructure investments as part of President Biden’s broader infrastructure agenda.
The initiative comes in response to escalating warnings from American officials, including the FBI director, about the possibility of China launching extensive cyberattacks targeting crucial U.S. infrastructure in the event of tensions over Taiwan. However, officials emphasized that the executive order is not a direct response to any specific threat.
Neuberger underscored that the executive order represents a shift from voluntary compliance to mandatory cybersecurity measures for shipping ports, which play a pivotal role in facilitating international trade and supporting millions of jobs.
The order will require ports to assess cybersecurity risks and report them to relevant government agencies, including the FBI and the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA).
While the order outlines the need for baseline cybersecurity standards, officials did not elaborate on the enforcement mechanisms or potential consequences for non-compliance by port operators.
Moreover, the executive order addresses persistent concerns raised by watchdog groups regarding the cybersecurity vulnerabilities of shipping cranes manufactured by China, which are widely used in American ports. Rear Adm.
John C. Vann of the Coast Guard disclosed that the agency is evaluating approximately 200 cranes across the country for potential vulnerabilities.
He emphasized the inherent risks associated with features that enable remote control and programming of these cranes, suggesting that Chinese-made cranes may be susceptible to exploitation.
The executive order reflects the Biden administration’s proactive approach to safeguarding critical infrastructure and responding to evolving cybersecurity threats in the maritime domain.
By strengthening regulatory oversight and investing in cybersecurity measures, the government aims to mitigate risks and enhance the resilience of U.S. ports against potential cyberattacks and disruptions.
