Probe finds US Coast Guard has left maritime cybersecurity adrift

A GAO audit (Dec 2023–Dec 2024) finds the U.S. Coast Guard lacks a comprehensive, measurable cyber strategy for the Maritime Transportation System, cannot readily access complete cybersecurity deficiency data from its inspection system, and faces ongoing staffing gaps in cyber roles, all amid escalating nation-state and criminal threats (e.g., Volt Typhoon, BlackBasta targeting maritime operators). The report recommends modernizing data systems for cyber inspection insights, aligning the Coast Guard’s cyber strategy with national strategy best practices, and addressing workforce competency gaps; DHS concurred with all recommendations.