Growth in satellite communications is expanding the cyberattack surface across IoT, utilities and critical infrastructure, Industrial Cyber reported. The issue is not that satellite connectivity is inherently unsafe; it is that more connected endpoints, ground systems and operational dependencies create more places where failures or attacks can propagate.
Asset owners should account for satellite-linked devices in the same inventories and risk reviews used for other operational technology. That includes identifying who manages the terminal, how it is patched, what data crosses the link, which identities can administer it and whether a compromised device can reach higher-value networks.
Segmentation, resilient communications paths, tested incident procedures and telemetry from edge systems are especially important where services support essential operations. Procurement teams can also use contract requirements to clarify update commitments, vulnerability reporting and log access. The reported trend is a reminder that connectivity choices are security architecture choices.
Source: Industrial Cyber