Scientists develop new tech to protect drones from cyber attacks

Led by the university’s Industrial AI Research Centre, the research is primarily focused on how, despite drones being one of the most intricate modern warfare tools, they remain increasingly vulnerable to digital threats and attacks by cyber criminals and malevolent actors.

“They [drones] collect large amounts of data, process it onboard, and communicate continuously with operators or cloud-based systems,” said senior author of the research, professor Javaan Chahl.

“While this makes drones powerful and versatile, it also makes them vulnerable.”

To address this, the team at Adelaide University have constructed an onboard security infrastructure that enables the UAS’ communications to be sustained through multiple channels even in the event of an attack.

“Instead of relying on a single link, the drone can use multiple communication pathways at once – such as mobile networks, Wi-Fi or other radio links – and automatically switch between them if one fails or is attacked,” said Chahl.

The system also includes a next-generation firewall that monitors data, blocks suspicious activity, and makes sure only authorised traffic is allowed through.

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A key feature of the system is the inclusion of malware sandboxing, which lets suspicious files be opened in a safe, separate space so the rest of the system isn’t exposed.

If the file is deemed malicious, it can be blocked instantly.

First author and cyber security expert, Tom Scully, said that research and innovation for drones was critical, as the effects of a cyber attack on a UAS have a large-scale impact.

“A cyber-attack can interfere with flight controls, disrupt communications, expose sensitive data, and even cause a physical accident,” Scully said.

“As drones become part of everyday life, we need to ensure they are not only smart and autonomous, but also secure, resilient and trustworthy.”