White House works to protect nation’s ports

WASHINGTON (NEXSTAR) – The Biden administration announced new efforts to protect the nation’s ports from cyberattacks.

The White House says a cyberattack can cause as much damage to a shipping port as a major storm or other physical disaster.

 This is part of a broader effort to shore up the nation’s cybersecurity infrastructure.

The White House says the new policy, established by executive order, will also help protect supply chains that move the nation’s goods.

Administration officials say the country’s maritime transportation system supports around $5.4 trillion worth of economic activity every year.

A cyberattack targeting that network could have devastating consequences, potentially slowing or even stopping critical supplies of things like food, medicine and fuel.

The executive order strengthens the Department of Homeland Security’s ability to address maritime security threats.

It will also issue orders for cyber risk management on ship-to-shore cranes made by China that are used in U.S. ports.

Overall, the White House says these collective efforts will ensure better security at the nation’s biggest ports.