Port of LA sets up digital-security centre as cyber-crime 'goes corporate'

 The port of Los Angeles has taken a decisive step to combat cyber-criminals targeting its ecosystem of users.

It has struck an agreement with IBM Security for the creation and operation of a Port Cyber Resilience Centre that aims to raise the level of protection and automate threat collaboration beyond the port itself to stakeholders involved with cargo flowing through Los Angeles.

Under the three-year agreement worth $6.8m, the technology firm will provide threat intelligence and analysis, set up an open security platform that will enable users to integrate security tools and make data available to them through a single dashboard, enable orchestrated responses through the codification of response processes into dynamic playbooks and provide active support through its threat analysts and sector experts.

“The Cyber Resilience Centre will provide a cutting-edge early warning system to further defend the port and its stakeholders against cyber threats,” said Gene Seroka, the port’s executive director.

“This will result in greater collective knowledge, enhanced data sharing throughout our port ecosystem and help maintain the flow of critical cargo,” he added.