FCC Takes Steps to Modernize the Nation's Alerting Systems

The Federal Communications Commission adopted rules to modernize the Emergency Alerting System and preserve the public’s trust in EAS by requiring targeted cybersecurity improvements that will protect against hijacking by cybercriminals and our nation’s adversaries. In addition, the Commission will move forward with a Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking that seeks comment on additional ways to modernize EAS and Wireless Emergency Alerts, from bolstering reliability to improving geographic accuracy. This first-principles approach will identify ways to ensure that alerts and alerting systems remain as effective and efficient as possible. Central to our effort to modernize EAS is ensuring its security. This action adopts three specific measures to help protect against hijacking by cybercriminals and our nation’s adversaries. Specifically, the FCC will require EAS Participants to use strong passwords, promptly test and install security patches issued by equipment manufacturers, and use a network firewall or comparable practice to better limit access to their equipment.