In a bid to address the persistent and increasingly sophisticated malicious cyber campaigns against the United States, President Joe Biden has issued an Executive Order to amend regulations concerning the safeguarding of vessels, harbors, ports, and waterfront facilities of the country.

The Executive Order empowers the Captain of the Port, an officer of the Coast Guard, to take immediate measures to prevent damage or injury to vessels and waterfront facilities, as well as safeguard ports, harbors, and waters of the United States. This includes the establishment of security zones where entry is prohibited without permission.

Furthermore, the order outlines the definition of terms such as "damage" and "cyber incident" in relation to digital infrastructure, highlighting the importance of preventing unauthorized access and ensuring the security of critical maritime assets.

Under the new regulations, the Commandant is tasked with issuing identification credentials known as the Coast Guard Port Security Card to individuals whose presence on vessels or waterfront facilities will not pose a security risk to the United States. Additionally, safety measures and precautions against sabotage are emphasized to protect vessels, facilities, and cargo.

The Executive Order underscores the primary responsibility of vessel masters, owners, operators, and agents for the protection and security of maritime assets, including digital infrastructure. It also mandates the immediate reporting of sabotage, subversive activity, or cyber incidents endangering vessels or waterfront facilities to relevant authorities.

Overall, the Executive Order aims to enhance cybersecurity measures at U.S. ports in response to the evolving threats posed by cyber intrusions and to safeguard the nation's critical maritime infrastructure.