Taiwan Amends Laws To Counter Malicious Undersea Cable Damage
Taiwan has faced several undersea cable disruptions in recent years. The government is now hoping new laws help fight back against deliberate sabotage by malicious actors.
**Taiwan Targets Undersea Cable Sabotage with Tougher Laws**
REPORTER:
In waters near Taiwan, those usually tasked with guarding the coast now find themselves guarding critical infrastructure deep below. Using ships and fishing boats, China has been sabotaging the cables that keep Taiwan online. Now changes to the law could give Taiwan a tool to fight back.
Anytime an undersea cable is severed, especially due to external force, we treat it as a national security case and refer it to prosecutors for investigation.
REPORTER:
On Thursday, changes to three Acts – the Electricity Act, the Natural Gas Enterprise Act, and the Water Supply Act – passed the first of three reviews in the legislature. Their aim is to protect Taiwan’s key infrastructure by providing harsher punishments for those caught tampering with underwater internet, gas, water, and power infrastructure. It’s all part of a broader package known as the “seven undersea cable laws.” These changes could allow authorities to seize vessels and charge any involved crew with up to seven years in prison.
When you raise the penalties, that in turn increases the deterrent effect. So by putting these measures in place, we can prevent being endlessly worn down and at the same time encourage other countries to work with us.
REPORTER:
But harsh punishments won’t be a deterrence if perpetrators don't fear getting caught. The biggest challenge is first, you have to be able to detect the saboteurs. And even after detection, sea conditions may not allow you to intercept and board the vessel. Even after boarding you still have to arrest the crew. All of this involves real-life situations at sea, and these come with significant risks.
REPORTER:
On average, Taiwan’s cables are damaged or tampered with eight times a year. These incidents – which could take Taiwan offline – expose real vulnerabilities within the country’s communications lifelines. To boost cable security and deter interference, officials hope the proposed law changes will give Taiwan— and its coast guard— a new edge in the future.
