ENISA’s new report sheds light on the growing cybersecurity risks in the space sector, emphasizing urgent attention to these vulnerabilities. The report highlights the increasing number of active satellites, many of which are owned by private operators, providing essential services to industries such as communications, agriculture, and logistics. With over 10,000 active satellites in orbit, these space assets have become integral to modern economic activities, making them prime targets for cyber-attacks.
The agency warns of cascading effects from potential attacks on satellites, such as financial losses for businesses, disruption of essential services, and societal harm. ENISA stresses that the rapid advancement of technologies, including quantum computing and onboard intelligence, has made space systems more susceptible to cyber threats. These threats not only jeopardize the functionality of satellites but also pose legal, regulatory, and security risks for the companies involved.
The report further outlines specific risks facing the space sector, such as supply chain vulnerabilities, legacy systems, weak encryption, and human error. ENISA also emphasizes the potential for misalignment and collisions between satellites due to cyber-attacks, which could create space debris and render regions of space unusable. The increasing reliance on commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) components and limited visibility of space systems add to these risks, urging the need for better protection strategies.
To mitigate these threats, ENISA offers several best practices for satellite operators, including implementing security-by-default, strengthening physical security, and adopting zero-trust principles. The report underscores the importance of robust cybersecurity measures for space systems, as any disruption could induce geopolitical tensions. With commercial space activities expanding, ENISA stresses that ensuring the cybersecurity of these assets is essential for the stability of global communications and economic activities.
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