Ransomware in space: evaluating a new attack vector against LEO satellites

The growing cyber threat in space

For decades, satellites were considered secure by obscurity. Their limited access points, reliance on proprietary protocols, and physical distance from attackers made them seem less susceptible to the types of cyber threats affecting terrestrial systems. However, as space infrastructure becomes increasingly software-driven and interconnected, new vulnerabilities emerge.

A recent study published on arXiv, “Evaluating an Effective Ransomware Infection Vector in Low Earth Orbit Satellites”, demonstrates that ransomware attacks against satellites are feasible without requiring supply chain compromise or insider access. This research explores how NASA’s Core Flight System (cFS)—a widely used open-source framework—can be exploited to take control of a satellite, encrypt its systems, and hold it hostage.

How ransomware could infect a satellite

Unlike traditional cyberattacks that target ground stations or satellite operators, this research describes a direct infection chain using a command injection exploit.

The attack steps

1. Identifying a target satellite

   • The attacker analyzes public satellite telemetry or documentation to identify a spacecraft running cFS.
   • By studying its command processing structure, the attacker pinpoints a potential software vulnerability.

2. Gaining access

   • Instead of relying on stolen credentials, the attacker exploits a buffer overflow in cFS’s command ingestion system.
   • This allows unauthorized commands to be executed remotely via radio transmission.

3. Deploying ransomware

   • A malicious payload containing a Python-based encryption script is uploaded.
   • The script locks down key subsystems, including the satellite’s radio module, cutting off communication.

4. Holding the satellite hostage

   • The attacker transmits a ransom demand to mission control, threatening to keep the spacecraft inoperable unless payment is made.
   • The satellite remains unusable until the decryption key is provided.

Why this attack is concerning

• It bypasses traditional cybersecurity protections
  No need for phishing, credential theft, or hardware access—just a software exploit delivered over radio frequencies.
• It exploits widely used flight software
  NASA’s cFS is used across space agencies and private aerospace companies, meaning a single vulnerability could affect multiple satellite fleets.
• It disrupts critical operations
  Satellites control communications, Earth observation, navigation, and defense systems. Disrupting one could have widespread consequences.

Lessons from past cyberattacks on space systems

This isn’t the first time satellites have been targeted by cyberattacks.

• Viasat KA-SAT attack (2022)
  • A destructive wiper malware disrupted satellite internet services across Europe.
  • Though the attackers targeted ground systems, the impact highlighted how dependent modern infrastructure is on satellites.
• Turla APT using satellite communications
  • Russian-linked APT Turla has used satellite internet links to hide command-and-control traffic, demonstrating how adversaries leverage space systems in cyber operations.
• Starlink terminal vulnerabilities
  • Security researchers have shown that user terminals for satellite internet can be hacked, proving that space assets are not immune to cyber threats.

The difference with this new research is that it doesn’t target ground stations or user equipment—it directly compromises the satellite itself.

Protecting satellites from ransomware and cyber threats

With satellites increasingly reliant on software-defined architectures, securing them requires a multi-layered approach.

Strengthening communication security

• Encrypt satellite command transmissions to prevent unauthorized command injection.
• Implement digital signatures for command validation to ensure authenticity.

Hardening flight software

• Regularly audit and patch vulnerabilities in cFS and other spaceborne software.
• Enforce buffer overflow protections and memory-safe programming practices.

Real-time anomaly detection

• Deploy AI-driven monitoring systems that flag unusual command activity.
• Implement a failsafe recovery mode that allows satellites to restore operations autonomously.

Improving industry-wide security practices

• Establish clear cybersecurity standards for commercial satellite providers.
• Foster collaboration between space agencies and cybersecurity researchers to proactively address emerging threats.

The future of space cybersecurity

As space becomes more accessible, the attack surface grows. Future threats may involve: ✔️ Compromised software updates injecting malware into satellites
✔️ Hacked satellite IoT sensors introducing backdoors into space systems
✔️ AI-driven autonomous malware adapting to space environments

Governments, space agencies, and private operators must act now to build resilience against these threats before they escalate into real-world attacks.

References

1. Evaluating an Effective Ransomware Infection Vector in Low Earth Orbit Satellites – arXiv
2. How PowerShell-based Malware Targeted Aerospace Firms – Recorded Future

Conclusion

This study is a wake-up call for the space industry. The demonstration that a ransomware attack can be executed against a satellite without compromising ground infrastructure signals a new era of cyber threats in space.

Cybersecurity in space must evolve alongside these threats, integrating advanced malware detection, encryption, and software hardening techniques to prevent real-world attacks.

🚀 How prepared are today’s satellites against cyberattacks?
🚀 Are current security measures sufficient for the next generation of space systems?
🚀 What steps should the aerospace industry take to secure space assets in an increasingly digital world?

The time to act is now.