Scientists show how easy it is to hijack civilian drones

Scientists in the US have demonstrated how it is relatively easy to take control of civilian drones by spoofing the GPS signal. Drones are being used more and more.

Scientists and students at the University of Texas, along with the Department of Homeland Security, have acquired drones with relatively simple means. However, it is not about the same drones as the types used by the defense. The researchers managed to access the drone’s GPS system and adjust its flight route, CBS News reported. We also managed to land a drone.

“You can think of it as hijacking a remote plane,” said Todd Humphreys, professor of the radionavigation laboratory at the university. “It’s like being at the wheel yourself because you’ve taken over the navigation from the autopilot.”

He points out that the control of drones from the US defense is not easy to take over, because these unmanned aircraft have advanced security technology. Despite this, Iran claimed control of a US spy drone last year. The demonstration by the researchers is especially important because drones are increasingly being used by, for example, the police during riots and events and by security companies to monitor areas.