UK plans emergency powers to protect undersea cables
Summary
The UK government is planning new emergency powers to better protect undersea internet cables and pipelines, which are vital for data and energy supplies. These powers will allow the government to order telecom companies to disable services during security threats and introduce stronger penalties for damaging undersea infrastructure.Key Facts
- The UK fears Russian interference with its undersea cables and pipelines.
- The government wants to gain powers to force telecom companies to remove or disable services during emergencies.
- Officials would get access to cable landing stations and related sites.
- Tampering with undersea cables or pipelines could lead to prison sentences up to 14 years and unlimited fines.
- Most of the UK's international data passes through these cables, and they provide three-quarters of the country's gas supply.
- The UK accused Russian submarines and spy ships, like the Yantar, of mapping or monitoring undersea infrastructure.
- Current laws are outdated and not suited to modern fibre-optic cables.
- New powers will require legislation and consultation with industry, with fines up to £17 million or 10% of global turnover for non-compliance.
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