Network Working Group L. Xu
Internet-Draft C. Wang
Intended status: Informational Y. Fu
Expires: 20 June 2025 Y. Wang
China Unicom
17 December 2024
Security and Privacy Considerations for Deep Space Network
draft-xu-deepspace-security-privacy-considerations-00
Abstract
Deep Space Network (DSN) inherits potential security vulnerabilities
as well as privacy issues. This document describes various threats
and security concerns related to Deep Space Networks and existing
approaches to solve these threats.
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Table of Contents
1. Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
1.1. Requirements Language . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
2. Security Issues in Deep Space Network . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
2.1. Data Interception . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
2.2. Signal Jamming . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
2.3. Unauthorized Access . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
3. Privacy Issues in Deep Space Networks . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
3.1. Man-in-the-Middle(MitM) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
3.2. Replay Attacks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
3.3. Side-Channel Attacks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
4. Security Considerations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
5. IANA Considerations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
6. References . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
6.1. Normative References . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
6.2. Informative References . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Acknowledgements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Authors' Addresses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
1. Introduction
The interplanetary communication system relies heavily on the Deep
Space Network (DSN) [I-D.many-deepspace-ip-assessment], which holds a
crucial position in the achievement of space exploration missions.
However, it constantly faces challenges in terms of security and
privacy. Security is of utmost importance, because any security
breach could jeopardize mission integrity and national security.
Similarly, privacy issues present considerable risks due to the
sensitive data exchanged between Earth and spacecraft.
This document describes various threats and security concerns related
to Deep Space Networks and existing approaches to solve these
threats.
1.1. Requirements Language
The key words "MUST", "MUST NOT", "REQUIRED", "SHALL", "SHALL NOT",
"SHOULD", "SHOULD NOT", "RECOMMENDED", "NOT RECOMMENDED", "MAY", and
"OPTIONAL" in this document are to be interpreted as described in
BCP 14 [RFC2119] [RFC8174] when, and only when, they appear in all
capitals, as shown here.
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2. Security Issues in Deep Space Network
Due to the critical nature of their operations and the inherent
challenges of space communication, Deep Space Networks (DSNs)
encounter a variety of security issues. This document discusses
major security issues such as data Interception, signal Jamming as
well as unauthorized access.
2.1. Data Interception
Unauthorized entities engage in data interception by capturing
sensitive information exchanged between spacecraft and ground
stations. The vast distances involved and the weakness of the
signals render the data susceptible to interception. Malicious
actors can capitalize on the absence of encryption or deploy
sophisticated eavesdropping technology to gain access to this
information.
The Deep Space Networks (DSNs) are exposed to substantial
vulnerabilities stemming from inadequate encryption for data in
transit and insufficient data protection measures，which can result in
the following attacks：
* the compromise of sensitive scientific data and mission-critical
command.
* unauthorized access to confidential information.
* disrupt mission operations.
* threaten the success and safety of space missions by undermining
the integrity and confidentiality of transmitted data.
To address vulnerabilities in Deep Space Networks (DSNs),
implementing end-to-end encryption is essential to ensure data
confidentiality throughout transmission.
2.2. Signal Jamming
The emission of interference signals disrupts the communication link
between spacecraft and ground stations, leading to signal jamming .
This disruption can be deliberate (malicious) or accidental
(resulting from environmental factors). Consequently, jamming
hinders the effective transmission and reception of vital data and
commands.
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Deep Space Networks (DSNs) face heightened vulnerability due to the
susceptibility of their communication channels to interference and
the inadequate resilience of their protocols against jamming. This
heightened susceptibility can result in the following notable
disruptions:
* mission failures or loss of crucial data.
* reducing effectiveness in maintaining consistent contact and
control over spacecraft.
* jeopardizing mission success and compromising the integrity of
scientific and operational data.
These vulnerabilities underscores the critical requirement for robust
anti-jamming defenses and resilient communication protocols, which
are essential for maintaining the continuous reliability and
effectiveness of DSN operations.
To mitigate vulnerabilities in Deep Space Networks (DSNs), it is
necessary to propose anti-jamming technologies to address
increasingly sophisticated interference techniques and protocols to
dynamically adapt to new and evolving jamming methods.
2.3. Unauthorized Access
Unauthorized access occurs when individuals obtain entry to DSN
systems without authorization. This can stem from compromised
credentials, insufficient access controls, or flaws in authentication
processes.
Deep Space Networks (DSNs) are exposed to significant risks due to
weak access controls and inadequate authentication mechanisms, which
encompass a lack of robust multi-factor authentication and role-based
access controls. These deficiencies can result in data breaches,
enabling unauthorized individuals to manipulate mission data and
ultimately lose control over spacecraft. Such incidents pose grave
threats to mission integrity, potentially causing sabotage and
jeopardizing the overall success of space missions.
Therefore, it is imperative to strengthen access controls and
authentication measures to safeguard DSN operations from these severe
consequences.
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3. Privacy Issues in Deep Space Networks
Communication between spacecraft and Earth relies crucially on Deep
Space Networks (DSNs), which transmit delicate information including
scientific measurements and astronaut health details. Given the
complexity and vast amounts of data transmitted, ensuring data
privacy is of paramount importance. The distinctive challenges faced
by DSNs, including immense distances and the requirement for reliable
communications, render data protection a formidable task. Therefore,
comprehensive safeguards are essential to protect sensitive
information and guarantee the success of missions.
3.1. Man-in-the-Middle(MitM)
Deep Space Networks (DSNs) face significant privacy risks from Man-
in-the-Middle (MitM) attacks. These attacks involve an adversary
intercepting and relaying messages between two parties who are
unaware that they are not communicating directly with each other.
The sensitivity of data transmitted in DSNs, such as mission-critical
commands and scientific measurements, makes MitM attacks particularly
damaging.
MitM attacks exploit weaknesses in the communication protocols
employed by DSNs. Attackers position themselves between
communicating parties to intercept data without detection.
Vulnerabilities include insufficient encryption and the absence of
authentication mechanisms, which will result in the following
attacks:
* unauthorized access to data.
* alteration of transmitted information.
* potential disruption of mission-related commands.
To mitigate MitM attacks, secure communication protocols, end-to-end
encryption, and mutual authentication mechanisms should be
implemented. Regular security audits and updates to protocols are
crucial.
3.2. Replay Attacks
In Deep Space Networks (DSNs), replay attacks entail attackers
intercepting and resending authentic data transmissions, tricking the
receiver into accepting them as genuine sources . This occurs when
attackers capture legitimate communications and replay them later to
obtain unauthorized access or execute commands. Among the
vulnerabilities are the lack of timestamps, nonce values, or
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sequential numbering in data packets, which may result in the
following consequences:
* unauthorized command execution.
* duplication of valid data.
* potential disruptions or malfunctions in operational tasks.
To counteract these attacks, mitigation strategies should incorporate
the use of timestamps on data packets, the employment of nonce values
and sequence numbers, and the implementation of anti-replay
mechanisms. Regular security updates and audits play a vital role in
maintaining security. Identified weaknesses include inadequate
deployment of anti-replay measures across all systems and the
necessity for ongoing protocol enhancements to defend against
emerging attack techniques.
3.3. Side-Channel Attacks
Side-channel attacks enable attackers to glean sensitive information
from DSN systems by scrutinizing physical emissions, including
electromagnetic leaks, power consumption, and timing details . This
compromises the confidentiality and safety of crucial DSN data,
potentially exposing encryption keys. These attacks happen when
attackers deploy specialized tools to monitor and dissect side-
channel emissions from DSN hardware and software. Vulnerabilities
stem from inadequate shielding and safeguards against such
emissions,which may lead to the following attacks：
* unauthorized access to sensitive data.
* potential encryption key leaks.
* overall system security breaches.
Side-channel attacks pose a substantial risk to the security of
cryptographic systems by exploiting indirect information leakage to
circumvent traditional safeguards. These attacks can be particularly
dangerous because they often require minimal access to the target
system and can be performed without the need for extensive technical
expertise. As technology evolves and systems grow more intricate,
the likelihood of side-channel vulnerabilities rises, emphasizing the
necessity for robust countermeasures and persistent vigilance in
security protocols.
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To counteract these threats, mitigation strategies may encompass
employing shielding and noise generation methods, adopting side-
channel resistant algorithms, and maintaining ongoing surveillance of
side-channel emissions.
4. Security Considerations
The security considerations of DPN are presented throughout this
document. .
5. IANA Considerations
This document has no IANA actions.
6. References
6.1. Normative References
[RFC2119] Bradner, S., "Key words for use in RFCs to Indicate
Requirement Levels", BCP 14, RFC 2119,
DOI 10.17487/RFC2119, March 1997,
<https://www.rfc-editor.org/info/rfc2119>.
[RFC8174] Leiba, B., "Ambiguity of Uppercase vs Lowercase in RFC
2119 Key Words", BCP 14, RFC 8174, DOI 10.17487/RFC8174,
May 2017, <https://www.rfc-editor.org/info/rfc8174>.
6.2. Informative References
[I-D.many-deepspace-ip-assessment]
Blanchet, M., Huitema, C., and D. Bogdanović, "Revisiting
the Use of the IP Protocol Stack in Deep Space: Assessment
and Possible Solutions", Work in Progress, Internet-Draft,
draft-many-deepspace-ip-assessment-02, 10 September 2024,
<https://datatracker.ietf.org/doc/html/draft-many-
deepspace-ip-assessment-02>.
Acknowledgements
TBD
Authors' Addresses
Lei Xu
China Unicom
Beijing
China
Email: xulei56@chinaunicom.cn
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Cuicui Wang
China Unicom
Beijing
China
Email: wangcc107@chinaunicom.cn
Yu Fu
China Unicom
Beijing
China
Email: fuy186@chinaunicom.cn
Yunshi Wang
China Unicom
Beijing
China
Email: wangys183@chinaunicom.cn
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