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Cybersecurity

GNSS Spoofing

A cyber-physical attack that broadcasts counterfeit satellite-navigation signals to deceive receivers into computing a false position or time.

GNSS spoofing transmits fake navigation signals that mimic genuine ones, causing a receiver to derive an incorrect position, velocity, or time. Unlike jamming, which simply denies the signal, spoofing can mislead a system while it appears to function normally.

Because many spacecraft and ground systems rely on GNSS for timing and positioning, spoofing is a recognised threat. Defences include signal-authentication features, anti-spoofing receivers, and cross-checking against independent sources.