Hacking a Satellite: Harder than it looks?

Hugh Taylor / Journal of Cyber Policy / 24 October 2023

During the most recent DEF CON, a shocking demonstration of satellite hacking took place. The Hack-a-Sat contest, organized by the US Air Force, saw teams of hackers successfully infiltrate a cubesat called Moonlighter and bypass its restrictions on observing ground targets. This feat caught the attention of several government agencies such as the Office of the Director of National Intelligence, the FBI, the National Counterintelligence and Security Center, and the Air Force Office of Special Investigations. In response, these agencies issued a warning about the cyber risks that satellites face while in orbit.

While this may have come as a surprise to many, it serves as a reminder that even highly advanced technology is not immune to hacking. Satellites play a crucial role in our daily lives, providing us with communication, navigation, weather forecasting, and surveillance capabilities. However, as they become increasingly connected and reliant on ground control systems, they also become more vulnerable to cyber attacks.

The demonstration at DEF CON highlights the need for increased security measures in satellite technology. It is imperative that government agencies and private companies continue to invest in improving security protocols to protect against potential threats. This incident also serves as a warning for the general public to be aware of the potential risks associated with satellite technology and to take necessary precautions.

Read the full article from Journal of Cyber Policy here.