Research by a security expert has found that flaws in Wi-Fi and in-flight entertainment systems could make satellite communications equipment on-board passenger aircraft vulnerable to cyber attacks, prompting a major overhaul if confirmed.
According to IOActive cybersecurity researcher Ruben Santamarta, this vulnerability enables the modification or disruption of satellite communications, eventually interfering with the aircraft’s navigation and safety systems.
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Santamarta was cited by Reuters as saying: "These devices are wide open. The goal of this talk is to help change that situation."
The researcher detected flaws by decoding a specialised software called firmware that is used to run satellite communications equipment for military and civilian aircraft built by manufacturers including Cobham, Harris, EchoStar’s Hughes Network Systems, Iridium Communications and Japan Radio.
Representatives for Cobham, Harris, Hughes and Iridium have confirmed some of Santamarta’s findings, but they de-emphasised the probability and possibility of such events.
Cobham spokesperson said: "In the aviation and maritime markets we serve, there are strict requirements restricting such access to authorised personnel only."
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By GlobalDataSantamarta added: "The findings of IOActive’s research should serve as an initial wake-up call for both the vendors and users of the current generation of SATCOM technology."
More details about the findings will be explained at the upcoming Black Hat hacking conference in Las Vegas.
In the midst of rising cyber security concerns, Panasonic Avionics has collaborated with Eutelsat America (EAC) to offer in-flight broadband connectivity services to aircraft flying high traffic routes spanning the west coast of North America to Asia and down to Australia and the Pacific islands.
