Operation Rolling Tide was a large-scale cybersecurity operation launched by the United States Navy in 2013. The objective of this operation was to combat cyber threats that were targeting the Navy Marine Corps Intranet (NMCI), which is the largest private network in the world. The NMCI network serves over 700,000 Navy and Marine Corps personnel and is a critical component of the Navy’s information infrastructure.

The cyber threats that prompted the launch of Operation Rolling Tide were primarily focused on stealing sensitive information and disrupting the Navy’s operations. These threats were coming from a variety of sources, including state-sponsored actors, criminal organizations, and individual hackers. The attacks included spear-phishing attempts, malware infections, and denial-of-service attacks, among others.

To counter these threats, the Navy took a multifaceted approach through Operation Rolling Tide. One of the main components of the operation was the deployment of advanced cybersecurity tools and technologies to detect and prevent attacks. These tools included intrusion detection systems, advanced firewalls, and security information and event management (SIEM) systems. Additionally, the Navy worked closely with cybersecurity experts from government agencies, academia, and private industry to identify emerging threats and develop new defenses.

Another key aspect of Operation Rolling Tide was the training and education of Navy personnel on cybersecurity best practices. The Navy recognized that human error was a significant factor in many cybersecurity incidents and sought to address this through comprehensive training programs. These programs included training on how to identify and avoid phishing attacks, how to use secure passwords, and how to report suspicious activity.

The Navy also conducted regular security audits and assessments of the NMCI network to identify vulnerabilities and ensure that all security protocols were up to date. Any identified vulnerabilities were promptly addressed, and the Navy remained vigilant in monitoring the network for potential threats.

Overall, Operation Rolling Tide was a highly successful cybersecurity operation for the Navy. By leveraging advanced technologies and best practices, the Navy was able to significantly reduce the number of successful cyber-attacks against the NMCI network. Additionally, the operation served as a model for other organizations facing similar cybersecurity challenges.

However, the threat landscape is continually evolving, and new cyber threats emerge regularly. As such, the Navy recognized that cybersecurity must remain a top priority and that ongoing efforts are necessary to ensure the safety and security of the NMCI network. To this end, the Navy continues to invest in cybersecurity research and development and remains committed to training personnel on best practices for maintaining a secure information infrastructure.