Research organization Chatham House recent released a paper, “Space, the Final Frontier for Cybersecurity?” that delves into the rarely discussed, but increasing threat of satellite attacks. Just think, much of the world’s infrastructure – like GPS navigation, weather and environmental monitoring, and financial services – relies on satellite data. It’s important to note that satellites and other space assets, as with any piece of technology, are vulnerable to cyber-attack.
The paper identifies the following cyber-attacks on satellites: jamming, spoofing and hacking attacks on communication networks; targeting control systems or mission packages; and attacks on the ground infrastructure such as satellite control centers. Why are we seeing satellites and space systems under attack? Similar to the Internet of Things (IoT), we’re seeing designers and manufacturers prioritize speed-to-market over security controls.
The researchers leading this project assert that it will take a concerted and collaborative effort from international space supply chain and insurance industry stakeholders to help combat these growing threats.
So what can we do as consumers? We cannot emphasize enough the importance of safeguarding your personal data. Check out our blog post on how to implement security best practices in everyday life.