Amending Regulations Relating to the Safeguarding of Vessels, Harbors, Ports, and Waterfront Facilities of the United States

2024-02-26Executive Order 14116
Signed by: Joseph R. Biden Jr.
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Headline: Expands Port Security Rules to Cover Cyberattacks and Digital Infrastructure

What it does: Agencies must apply and enforce port security rules to prevent and respond to cyber incidents affecting vessels and waterfront facilities.

Real World Impact:
  • Port officials can bar or remove data, networks, or devices from vessels or facilities.
  • Vessel owners and facility operators must protect onboard digital systems and take precautions.
  • Requires immediate reporting of cyber incidents to the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
Topics: maritime security, cybersecurity, port operations, law enforcement

Summary

This order updates federal port security rules to include cyber incidents and protections for digital systems. It expands Coast Guard authority so Captains of the Port can block, inspect, control, or remove people, goods, and digital infrastructure on vessels and at waterfront facilities and set security zones.

The changes affect vessel owners, waterfront operators, maritime workers, and port officials, and require reporting cyber incidents to federal authorities to help protect U.S. ports and vessels from malicious cyber campaigns.

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