Student Article

Satellites are integral to modern life, supporting GPS navigation, military operations, and banking systems. However, the increasing number of satellites in orbit has made them attractive targets for hackers. The possibility of hacking satellites poses a significant threat to global security and the implications of such cyber attacks are profound.

How can a satellite be hacked?

Satellites in low Earth orbit are vulnerable to cyber and physical attacks. Hackers can use various methods, including cutting power or deploying kinetic anti-satellite weapons (ASATs), to compromise satellite functions. Proximity operations, where one satellite installs malware on another, are also a potential threat.

What could happen if they hack a satellite?

The consequences of hacking a satellite are severe. It could lead to the theft of sensitive military data, disruption of GPS services, and interference with financial systems. Such attacks could destabilize national security and disrupt essential services and industries across finances, logistics, and agriculture. Pretty much every industry relies on space technology and that reliance is only increasing,

Are there rules to stop this?

Current international regulations, such as the Outer Space Treaty and guidelines from the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs, are not sufficient to prevent cyber attacks on satellites. There is a pressing need for more robust global regulations to safeguard these critical assets.

© Alex Hughes / Our Media