Cyber security solution will help U.S. ports comply with USCG guidance

ABS Advanced Solutions has launched a first-of-its-kind cyber security solution to aid regulated maritime facilities in complying with U.S. Coast Guard guidance. The suite of services provides a turnkey solution for port and terminal facility operators responsible for maintaining USCG regulated Facility Security Plans (FSPs).

In 2017, the Coast Guard announced, in draft Navigation and Vessel Inspection Circular (NVIC) 05-1, its intent that regulated maritime facilities in the United States address cyber security in their FSPs. Since then, regulated facilities have been asking how to comply.

“We’ve listened to our client partners and developed a solution that categorically addresses the Coast Guard’s cyber intent—and is easily implemented and understood by facility security personnel,” said Dave Nichols, Director of Business Development, ABS Advanced Solutions.

At the heart of the ABS solution is a consolidation of the regulations, policies, procedures, and internationally recognized best practices outlined by the USCG in draft NVIC 05-17. Specifically, the USCG identified the National Institute of Standards and Technology Cyber Security Framework (NIST CSF) as the recommended approach to be implemented by regulated facilities. The ABS solution incorporates the NIST CSF into an easy-to-follow approach that demystifies cyber security.

The solution provides a pathway for port and terminal operators to address all five functional areas of NIST—including all 108 sub-categories—into a comprehensive assessment that produces an actionable plan to augment existing FSPs and streamline the efforts of Facility Security Officers, IT, and OT personnel. In addition to the assessment—which produces a quantifiable risk score—ABS Advanced Solutions can assist in FSP development, training of FSOs as well as additional personnel, and implementation of risk mitigation strategies identified in the facility cyber assessment.