Satellites Are Leaking the Secrets
14 hours ago
- #Data Privacy
- #Cybersecurity
- #Satellite Communications
- Satellite communications are often unencrypted, leaving sensitive data vulnerable to eavesdropping.
- Researchers from UC San Diego and the University of Maryland found that roughly half of geostationary satellite signals are unprotected.
- Using an $800 satellite receiver, the team intercepted private data, including calls, texts, military communications, and critical infrastructure data.
- Many companies, including T-Mobile, quickly encrypted their communications after being alerted, but some critical infrastructure owners have yet to act.
- Unencrypted satellite backhaul traffic from remote cell towers exposed phone calls, text messages, and metadata.
- Military and law enforcement communications, including sensitive intelligence and asset tracking, were also found unencrypted.
- Critical infrastructure like power grids and oil platforms transmitted internal communications in the clear.
- In-flight Wi-Fi data, corporate emails, and banking communications were among other exposed data.
- The researchers warn that intelligence agencies worldwide likely exploit these vulnerabilities.
- The study highlights the low barrier to entry for intercepting satellite data, with off-the-shelf equipment.