USCG Releases Final Cybersecurity in the Marine Transportation System Rule

The U.S. Coast Guard is set to publish a notice for the release of its final rule for Cybersecurity in the Maritime Transport System in the U.S. Federal Register on Friday, January 17. It is a comprehensive strategy addressing the growing threat to vessels, ports and facilities, and operations on the Outer Continental Self and requires operators to take new steps to harden their defenses and preparations.

The Coast Guard writes in the 370-page document that the purpose of the final rule is to safeguard the maritime transport system (MTS) against current and emerging threats associated with cybersecurity. It says it is laying out minimum cybersecurity requirements to help direct, respond to, and recover from cybersecurity risks that may cause transportation security incidents. 

“This final rule addresses risks from increased…