GPS jamming and spoofing are increasing threats to aircraft navigation, with potentially dangerous consequences. A new type of atomic clock, much smaller and cheaper than existing ones, could provide a highly accurate backup navigation system, independent of vulnerable satellite signals. These chip-scale atomic clocks (CSACs), while not yet widespread, could be integrated into aircraft systems to maintain precise positioning and timing even when GPS signals are lost or compromised, significantly improving safety and resilience.
Polish researchers suspect that GPS jamming in the Baltic Sea, affecting maritime and air navigation, is being deliberately caused by ships, possibly linked to the ongoing war in Ukraine. The Centre for Eastern Studies (OSW) report highlights numerous incidents of interference, particularly near Russian naval exercises and around strategic areas like the Bornholm Basin, suggesting a potential Russian military strategy to disrupt navigation and create uncertainty. While technical malfunctions are possible, the patterns of interference strongly point toward intentional jamming, impacting both civilian and military operations in the region.
Several Hacker News commenters discuss the plausibility and implications of GPS jamming in the Baltic Sea. Some express skepticism, suggesting the observed disruptions could be caused by unintentional interference or even solar flares. Others point out the increasing availability and use of GPS jammers, highlighting their potential use in smuggling or other illicit activities. The prevalence of spoofing is also raised, with one commenter mentioning the known use of GPS spoofing by Russia around airports and other strategic locations. Another commenter questions the motivation behind such jamming, speculating that it could be related to the ongoing war in Ukraine, possibly to mask ship movements or disrupt navigation. A few comments also touch on the broader implications for maritime safety and the potential for escalating tensions in the region.
Microsoft Edge users are reporting that the browser is disabling installed extensions, including popular ad blockers like uBlock Origin, without user permission. This appears to be related to a controlled rollout of a new mandatory extension called "Extensions Notifications" which seems to conflict with existing extensions, causing them to be automatically turned off. The issue is not affecting all users, suggesting it's an A/B test or staged rollout by Microsoft. While the exact purpose of the new extension is unclear, it might be intended to improve extension management or notify users about potentially malicious add-ons.
HN users largely express skepticism and concern over Microsoft disabling extensions in Edge. Several doubt the claim that it's unintentional, citing Microsoft's history of pushing its own products and services. Some suggest it's a bug related to sync or profile management, while others propose it's a deliberate attempt to steer users towards Microsoft's built-in tracking prevention or Edge's own ad platform. The potential for this behavior to erode user trust and push people towards other browsers is a recurring theme. Many commenters share personal anecdotes of Edge's aggressive defaults and unwanted behaviors, further fueling the suspicion around this incident. A few users provide technical insights, suggesting possible mechanisms behind the disabling, like manifest mismatches or corrupted profiles, and offering troubleshooting advice.
Summary of Comments ( 135 )
https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=43289994
HN commenters discuss the plausibility and implications of GPS spoofing for aircraft. Several express skepticism that widespread, malicious spoofing is occurring, suggesting alternative explanations for reported incidents like multipath interference or pilot error. Some point out that reliance on GPS varies among aircraft and that existing systems can mitigate spoofing risks. The potential vulnerabilities of GPS are acknowledged, and the proposed atomic clock solution is discussed, with some questioning its cost-effectiveness and complexity compared to other mitigation strategies. Others suggest that focusing on improving the resilience of GPS itself might be a better approach. The possibility of state-sponsored spoofing is also raised, particularly in conflict zones.
The Hacker News post titled "Planes are having their GPS hacked. Could new clocks keep them safe?" with the ID 43289994 has several comments discussing the BBC article about potential GPS vulnerabilities and proposed solutions.
Several commenters challenge the premise of widespread GPS hacking of planes. One commenter suggests the BBC article's title is misleading, pointing out that the article itself primarily discusses potential vulnerabilities, particularly regarding spoofing or jamming, rather than confirmed incidents of hacking. They emphasize the difference between theoretical attacks and actual occurrences. Another commenter expresses skepticism, arguing that if GPS hacking of planes were a significant issue, there would be more documented evidence and consequences. This commenter also suggests that other systems, like inertial navigation, can mitigate the risks associated with GPS disruptions.
The discussion also delves into the technicalities of GPS vulnerabilities and proposed mitigations. One commenter questions the practicality and effectiveness of using atomic clocks on planes as a solution, citing the cost, size, and power requirements. Another commenter highlights the existing multi-layered approach to navigation in aviation, which includes inertial navigation systems, ground-based radar, and other sensors. They argue that relying solely on GPS is not the norm.
The conversation further explores alternative solutions to GPS vulnerabilities, such as using multiple satellite navigation systems (e.g., Galileo, GLONASS) to cross-reference data and enhance accuracy and reliability. Another commenter proposes using ground-based systems like Loran as a backup.
Some comments focus on the broader implications of GPS vulnerabilities. One commenter suggests that a more significant threat than outright hacking is accidental interference, such as jamming from electronic warfare or malfunctioning equipment. Another commenter raises the concern that even if commercial aircraft are relatively safe due to redundant systems, smaller aircraft like general aviation planes might be more vulnerable to GPS disruptions.
Several commenters express concerns about the general reliability and trustworthiness of information, mentioning how easy it is to create false narratives or exaggerate threats. This thread of discussion touches upon the importance of critical thinking and media literacy.