October is cyber awareness month, making the recent Coast Guard testimony on cyber all the more relevant.

October 8, 2015, Rear Adm. Paul Thomas, assistant commandant for prevention policy, testified before the Border and Maritime Security Subcommittee in Washington, DC.

His testimony focused on cyber risks in the maritime transportation system, unity of effort with other government agencies and maritime industry, international considerations, Coast Guard activities addressing cyber risks, current challenges and future plans.

Read Thomas’ remarks on recognizing the importance of cybersecurity and risk management of this area. He explains the need for an approach that emphasizes the essential role and responsibilities of maritime industry partners.

“Over time, the Coast Guard and the maritime industry have cooperated to address the risks associated with new threats and technologies. Security threats have evolved from coastal piracy to complex smuggling operations, transnational organized crime and terrorism,” said Thomas. “…Our ultimate goal is to incorporate cyber risk management into the existing safety and security regimes that have served the industry, the Coast Guard and the public so well, for so long.”

Click here to read the full testimony.

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