An unauthorized Wi-Fi network was installed on board an American warship. The senior commander who ordered its installation was stripped of his position and demoted in rank.
Security Breach
Illegal Wi-Fi Network
The US Navy has stopped using an illegal Wi-Fi wireless network on a combat ship. The senior commander who gave the order to install it was demoted in rank. Previously a high-ranking official, Grisel Marrero was convicted in March, according to Navy Times, which has court records.
Marrero served on the littoral combat ship USS Manchester, assigned to the US Navy's Pacific Surface Fleet. Navy officials confirmed the information to The Register, adding:
“The senior commander of the USS Manchester (LCS 14) Gold Crew, First Chief Griselle Marrero, has been relieved of her duties due to a loss of confidence in her ability to perform their official duties. Senior Navy personnel are expected to maintain high standards of personal and professional conduct, responsibility, reliability and leadership. If these principles are violated, disciplinary action will be taken.”
Installation of an illegal network
Between March and August last year, while serving as Manchester's senior commander, Marrero "deliberately coordinated the procurement, installation and use unauthorized Wi-Fi system," the indictment states.
The wording of the charge indicates that Marrero did not act alone - other sailors were also punished for this incident. The use of Wi-Fi wireless networking technology is strictly prohibited on US Navy ships due to security concerns.
Covering up the offense
The illegal network went undetected until around June last year, when one of the crew tried to report it to the ship's commander. However, Marrero intercepted this message and hid the fact of the Wi-Fi deployment in order to avoid punishment.
The scheme was uncovered in August when another Manchester crew member was disciplined. To "influence or interfere" with his punishment, Marrero edited an image showing the use of Starlink data on the ship, thereby hiding the presence of a wireless network.
It is not specified whether the sailor in question was punished specifically for using Wi-Fi and Starlink data, but it is clear that Marrero lied to her management.
Senior Commander's Punishment
Marrero was initially removed from her position as senior commander in September, and the case was then referred to a court-martial. She was charged with willful dereliction of duty, making false statements and obstruction of justice. She pleaded guilty to all charges except the last one, but was still found guilty. As punishment, she was demoted from level E-8 to level E-7. There has been no information yet about the punishment of other participants in the incident.
Glossary
- USS Manchester - US Navy littoral combat ship
- Pacific Surface Fleet - task force US Navy surface ships in the Pacific
- Navy Times - authoritative American naval publication
- The Register - popular British online publication about technology and security
- Starlink - satellite broadband Internet access system from SpaceX
Links
Answers to questions
What action was taken against Senior Commander Griselle Marrero regarding the illegal installation of a Wi-Fi network on board the ship?
Why was it illegal to install a Wi-Fi network on a warship?
What actions did Griselle Marrero take to hide the fact of the illegal installation of a Wi-Fi network?
What was Griselle Marrero's punishment for her actions?
Was Griselle Marrero the only one punished in connection with this incident?
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Discussion of the topic – US Navy senior commander demoted for illegally installing Wi-Fi on ship
US Navy senior commander Griselle Marrero was demoted and fired for illegally installing a wireless Wi-Fi network on a warship, which posed a cybersecurity threat.
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Хуан
This is a completely irresponsible and dangerous act on the part of Griselle Marrero! Installing an unauthorized Wi-Fi network on a warship is a serious security breach. 🚫 I'm glad the US Navy acted quickly and demoted her.
Анна
I agree, Juan. Marrero's behavior endangered the safety of the entire ship and crew. Trying to hide my actions only made the situation worse. Honesty and responsibility are key qualities for a commander.
Франц
Yes, this is a very serious incident. I am reminded of an incident where our senior officer also tried to implement an “improvement” but did not consider the safety implications. As a result, he was fired. 😕 Rules exist for a reason.
Карина
Indeed, safety rules on ships are extremely important. But I think Marrero just wanted to make internet access easier for the crew. Maybe we should first discuss this issue with the command? 🤔
Владимир
Hmm, I don’t know... Installing an unsecured Wi-Fi network on a warship is too much. Marrero should have understood the risks. And an attempt to hide one’s actions is generally unacceptable for a senior commander. 😤 They did the right thing by demoting her.
Борис
Ugh, these newfangled things only do harm! 😡 In my time, we did without any Wi-Fi or internet, and nothing, the ships sailed. Why do all this nonsense on a warship? Only undermine security.
София
Boris, times have changed! 🕰️ Modern ships rely on advanced technology and communications. But you are right, any innovations must be introduced in compliance with all safety protocols. But Marrero acted rashly. 😔
Пётр
By the way, does anyone know what exactly Wi-Fi was needed on the ship for? 🤔 Maybe some new control or communication systems? I would like to know the reason why Marrero took such a risk.