President Joe Biden on Wednesday signed an executive order and created a federal rule to bolster the security at US ports from potential cyberattacks. The move comes amid growing concerns about the vulnerability of critical infrastructure to cyberattacks.

Cybersecurity Regulations for US Ports

The administration is introducing a set of cybersecurity regulations that port operators must adhere to nationwide, similar to standardized safety measures designed to mitigate physical risks. 

The White House is set to issue an executive order focusing on enhancing the security of the nation's ports, accompanied by additional measures aimed at fortifying maritime cybersecurity, strengthening supply chains, and reinforcing the US industrial base.

These actions reflect the administration's commitment to investing in America, securing supply chains, and safeguarding critical infrastructure against modern threats.

The security of the nation's ports is crucial, given the integral role of maritime trade in the US economy. The Marine Transportation System (MTS) supports trillions of dollars in economic activity annually and sustains millions of jobs.

However, as digital systems become increasingly integral to port operations, they also introduced new vulnerabilities that could disrupt maritime shipping and supply chains.

Joe Biden's New Executive Order

Joe Biden's executive order will empower the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to address maritime cyber threats more effectively, including by establishing cybersecurity standards to ensure the security of ports' networks and systems.

The US Coast Guard will be granted explicit authority to respond to malicious cyber activity in the MTS and mandate cybersecurity mitigation measures for vessels and waterfront facilities.

The executive order will also require mandatory reporting of cyber incidents endangering vessels, harbors, ports, or waterfront facilities. The Coast Guard will be authorized to control the movement of ships posing cyber threats and conduct inspections of vessels and facilities to mitigate cybersecurity risks effectively.

Furthermore, the Coast Guard will also issue a Maritime Security Directive concerning cyber risk management for ship-to-shore cranes manufactured by the People's Republic of China. 

Owners and operators of these cranes will be required to take necessary actions to secure their equipment and associated IT and OT systems.

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Proposed Rulemaking

To strengthen digital systems in the marine transportation sector, the US Coast Guard has proposed a rulemaking on cybersecurity. This proposed rule establishes minimum cybersecurity requirements aligned with international standards to manage cyber threats effectively.

To revitalize domestic manufacturing capacity, the Biden administration also plans to invest over $20 billion in US port infrastructure over the next five years. 

As part of this effort, PACECO Corp., a US-based subsidiary of Mitsui E&S Co., Ltd., intends to onshore manufacturing capacity for crane production. 

"Today's actions are clear examples of the President's work to invest in America, secure the country's supply chains, and strengthen the cybersecurity of our nation's critical infrastructure against 21st century threats - priorities his Administration has focused on relentlessly since taking office," the White House's fact sheet reads.

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