How Navy Chiefs Conspired to Get Themselves Illegal Warship WiFi

Unauthorized Wi-Fi on a Navy Warship: A Case of Egregious Misconduct

In a shocking breach of naval regulations and security protocols, senior enlisted leaders on the USS Manchester conspired to install an unauthorized Wi-Fi network on the ship, exposing the vessel to significant cybersecurity risks. This clandestine operation, spearheaded by Command Senior Chief Grisel Marrero, involved the procurement and installation of a Starlink satellite internet dish and a private Wi-Fi network known as "STINKY."

Background and Motivation

The incident began as the USS Manchester prepared for a deployment to the West Pacific. Marrero, who had a background in Navy intelligence and a master's degree in business administration with a focus on information security and digital management, collaborated with other senior enlisted leaders to set up the unauthorized network. This network was intended for the exclusive use of the chiefs, allowing them to check sports scores, send texts home, and stream movies, while regular sailors were denied such privileges.

Installation and Operation

The Starlink satellite dish was mounted on the ship's exterior, specifically on the O-5 level weather deck, without proper documentation in the ship's logs. The network was activated the night before the ship's deployment, and it remained operational for several months. The chiefs used this network extensively, despite the risks it posed to the ship's operational security and information security.

Security Risks and Operational Implications

The unauthorized Wi-Fi network posed significant risks to the security of the ship and its personnel. Such networks are strictly prohibited on Navy vessels due to cybersecurity concerns, including the potential for cyber threats and the compromise of mission integrity. The use of this network could have allowed unauthorized access to sensitive information and disrupted critical ship operations.

Investigation and Consequences

The clandestine Wi-Fi network was discovered in mid-deployment, after a crew member reported suspicions about the network to the commanding officer. However, Marrero intercepted this information and failed to disclose it to her superiors, further complicating the situation. The investigation revealed that over 15 members of the Manchester's chiefs mess were involved in the conspiracy, and those who did not report the misconduct were also held accountable.

Marrero was relieved of her duties due to a loss of confidence in her ability to serve as a senior enlisted leader. She was subsequently tried and convicted at a court-martial, pleading guilty to charges of willful dereliction of duty and making false statements. She was found guilty of obstruction of justice and was demoted from E-8 to E-7. Other sailors involved in the conspiracy also faced disciplinary actions.

Ethical and Professional Failures

The incident highlights a significant failure in leadership and adherence to naval regulations. Marrero's background in Navy intelligence and information security made her actions particularly egregious, as she should have been well aware of the risks involved. The fact that she and other senior leaders chose to deceive their superiors and compromise ship security for personal convenience underscores a serious breach of trust and professional ethics.

Operational Security Lapses

The setup of the unauthorized network demonstrated several operational security lapses. The default Wi-Fi name was not changed, making it easily discoverable. Additionally, the network was not configured to avoid detection, and the Starlink dish was installed in plain sight, further increasing the risk of discovery.

Broader Implications

This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of adhering to security protocols and the consequences of compromising operational security. It also highlights the need for robust internal controls and oversight to prevent such misconduct in the future. The Navy's response, including the demotion and court-martial of Marrero, underscores the seriousness with which such breaches are taken.