The commanding officer's perspective on protecting shipboard IT networks
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Authors
Zielechowski, Steven
Subjects
Covert Analysis Direction System
covert analysis detection
CAD
shipboard networks
cyber attack
covert analysis detection
CAD
shipboard networks
cyber attack
Advisors
Buettner, Raymond R.
Date of Issue
2014-09
Date
Sep-14
Publisher
Monterey, California: Naval Postgraduate School
Language
Abstract
This thesis explores the perceived need or lack of need for an active defense system afloat (e.g., the covert analysis detection [CAD] system) to protect shipboard networks from possible cyber-attacks. As hacking methods evolve, it is likely that nation-states and terrorists will attempt to interfere with or take control of shipboard systems remotely. This thesis builds on the work of previous NPS theses that suggest the Navy consider deploying a CAD system in the Aegis Combat System to secure better the system against potential cyber intrusions or attacks. This system could covertly detect intrusions of malicious programs and track their activities and behavior, deceive the malicious software, and/or isolate it to keep it from causing irreparable harm while deceiving the attacker with regard to system status. The data would only be available to the CO and designated shipboard personnel. In order to determine a need for such a system, 10 current and former commanders afloat were surveyed. The overwhelming majority saw a need to defend ships from cyber-attacks. Most of them saw the benefit of a CAD system in the cyber defense of U.S. Navy warships. This thesis recommends the development of the CAD system for shipboard use.
Type
Thesis
Description
Series/Report No
Department
Information Sciences (IS)
Organization
Identifiers
NPS Report Number
Sponsors
Funding
Format
Citation
Distribution Statement
Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.
Rights
This publication is a work of the U.S. Government as defined in Title 17, United States Code, Section 101. Copyright protection is not available for this work in the United States.