Drone Cybersecurity & Access Control

Drone cybersecurity technologies are used to ensure that UAS hardware and software, as well as data that has been collected or transmitted, cannot fall into the wrong hands or otherwise be compromised. These technologies protect systems and data against a wide range of threats, including espionage, theft, drone hijacking, and privacy issues.

Drone Encryption & Authentication

KG-250X Network Encryptor by ViaSat

Encryption can be used to protect data during transmission, including command and control signals, telemetry, video and imagery, and sensor readings, by encoding it in such a way that only users with a specific decryption key can decode and read it. It can also be applied to data that has been stored on a memory device within the drone, or on a remote server.

Encryption methods rely on sophisticated cryptographic algorithms, such as AES-128 and AES-256, that have been designed to be virtually impossible to crack. For drone encryption applications, such as communications between the aircraft and ground control station, E2EE (end-to-end encryption) is often utilized, ensuring that no third parties such as cellular network providers or malicious actors can decrypt the data.

Encryption is often paired with authentication, which is the process of ensuring that only legitimate users can gain access to systems or data. Authentication is used to protect mission-critical or sensitive assets, such as drone C2 (command and control) systems or classified military, government and commercial data. Commonly used methods of authentication include passwords, multi-factor authentication, biometrics, and digital certificates.

Drone Cybersecurity Software & Hardware

Software & Firmware Updates

Drone software and firmware may need to be regularly patched or updated in order to fix vulnerabilities and security flaws that may allow hackers to access sensitive data such as flight logs and captured imagery, or even to take control of the drone. This may need to be performed offline without any connection to the Internet or other communications, to ensure that the software cannot be compromised with malicious code.

Tamper-Proof Hardware

Tamper-proof hardware can be used to protect drone systems and data from unauthorized access in the case of theft or during leave-behind scenarios. Physical methods include tamper-resistant screws and other mechanical components, as well as detection systems that may send alerts or erase sensitive data. Some drone data storage systems also offer the ability for operators to remotely erase the data.

Airspace Security for UAM & U-Space

In addition to single UAS, airspace cybersecurity methods are vital for protecting UTM (unmanned traffic management) and U-space. These systems handle a large amount of sensitive information, such as drone registration and location data, and may also be used to handle software and firmware updates. Identification and authorization of connected drones and UTM service suppliers are also vital to ensure that hackers do not interfere with the flight authorization process.