Cybersecurity policies and supporting regulations for maritime transportation system in the USA

Abstract

A commonly accepted framework for the development of policies and supporting regulations that address cybersecurity vulnerabilities and threats seems to be missing both domestically in the USA and in terms of international collaboration amongst maritime stakeholders. This research aimed at establishing the actions that would allow commonly accepted and established cybersecurity policies and regulations for the maritime transportation system (MTS) and the critical infrastructure connected to it. A multiple case-study design was adopted and in-depth interviews were conducted until data saturation was achieved with 12 US Coast Guard operational commanders. The results of the study suggest the need for greater collaborations among interested parties at the national (US Coast Guard, port authorities, etc.) and international level (International Maritime Organization, United Nations, etc.) for the establishment of mutually accepted cybersecurity as well as among private industries for sharing cyber intrusion data and protection best practices.