Date of Award

Summer 8-2024

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy in Cyber Defense (PhDCD)

First Advisor

Patrick Engebretson

Second Advisor

Varghese Vaidyan

Third Advisor

Philip Egeberg

Abstract

This research explores the security vulnerabilities of unmanned aircraft vehicles (UAVs), or drones, which are increasingly prevalent in agriculture, delivery, public safety, recreation, photography, and emergency management. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) classifies UAVs as legal aircraft yet encounters notable control and data security challenges. The study conducts comprehensive wireless vulnerability scans on commercially available, small, licensable-size drones to identify and analyze communication and data vulnerabilities and integrate them with flight safety risk management. The research method involves demonstrating and documenting these vulnerabilities practically. A custom-built drone with a reliable and full-featured open-source flight control software package, serving as a comparison baseline. The research team also performs similar tests on commercially available drones to ensure consistency and repeatability.

Moreover, strategies were implemented to validate best practices for drones against unauthorized takeovers and deliberate interference, which can result in unsafe flight conditions. This aspect is crucial for the safe operation and longevity of UAVs. The recommendations are provided to address and mitigate common vulnerabilities, enhancing these systems' safety, security, and reliability in their diverse applications.

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