Attacks on GPS

Do you know that GPS is under attack?

It sounds ridiculous, but GPS is under constant threat from solar storms, hacking, and jamming.

Solar Storms

Severe solar storms have the potential to disrupt GPS for hours or even days at a time. These intense bursts of radiation from the sun can overload GPS satellites and ground systems, causing widespread outages. The last major solar storm in 1989 knocked out power grids in Quebec for 9 hours — and experts warn the next one could be even worse.

Hacking Attacks

Hackers are increasingly targeting GPS systems to steal money, disrupt infrastructure, and spy on people. Criminals are spoofing GPS signals to trick financial trading algorithms, costing millions. Adversaries are jamming GPS to blind military drones and disrupt power grids. And cybercriminals are using GPS tracking data to stalk victims. Cybersecurity experts say GPS hacking is a growing threat that will only get worse.

Jammers Galore

GPS jammers are being used for all sorts of nefarious purposes — from cheating on fishing quotas to avoiding tolls to blocking vehicle tracking. These cheap, readily available devices can overpower GPS signals in a local area. Truckers use them to hide their routes, while poachers use them to evade anti-poaching patrols. Experts warn that GPS jammers are a serious problem that needs to be addressed.

Protecting GPS

To safeguard GPS, experts recommend developing backup systems, improving cybersecurity, and fostering international cooperation. Redundant systems like eLoran can provide a GPS backup. Cybersecurity best practices like encryption and authentication can thwart hacking. And global coordination is needed to monitor threats and enforce laws against jamming.