GAO Tells Coast Guard to Improve Cybersecurity of Maritime Transportation System

Summary: The Government Accountability Office (GAO) has identified critical gaps in cybersecurity within the Maritime Transportation System (MTS) and outlined five key recommendations for the US Coast Guard to enhance security measures. These recommendations aim to improve the accuracy of cybersecurity data, align cyber plans with national strategies, and ensure personnel competency in cybersecurity roles. The report highlights the increasing threats posed by state-sponsored and cybercriminal actors, emphasizing the need for immediate action to safeguard port operations.

Affected: US Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation System (MTS)

Keypoints :

• GAO’s recommendations focus on improving incident information accuracy and access to cyber deficiency data.
• The report identifies shortcomings in the Coast Guard’s cyber strategy and personnel competency requirements.
• Cybersecurity risks include threats from state-sponsored actors and reliance on vulnerable technology, impacting future port operations.