Eavesdropping on Internal Networks via Unencrypted Satellites

A study revealed that a significant amount of sensitive data is being transmitted unencrypted via geostationary satellites, including cellular backhaul, military and government communications, in-flight Wi-Fi data, VoIP calls, and internal corporate networks. The lack of encryption poses a risk as this data can be easily intercepted by anyone with basic equipment. While efforts were made to notify affected parties and some have implemented remedies, there is no universal encryption standard for GEO satellite communications. Recommendations include using encryption at every layer and treating satellite links as unsecured networks. The study was conducted by computer scientists from the University of California, San Diego and the University of Maryland, College Park.