Radio Frequency 101: Can You Really Hack a Radio Signal?

Radio frequency (RF) plays a critical role in many military systems such as navigation, radar, and communication systems. Common DoD use cases include satellite communication (SATCOM), radio, radar, or tactical data links that help coordinate troop movements, signal position info about a target, or help maintain communication between aircraft and drones. A recent report indicated the DoD is susceptible to potential RF attack vectors, indicating the need to better understand and prevent vulnerabilities. In this RF 101 guide from the Carnegie Mellon University Software Engineering Institute (SEI), we explore some of the fundamentals of radio frequency communication, delve into the generalities of protocols and device interactions, discuss common RF tools, and uncover ways malicious actors can attack systems. We summarize the basics of RF technology and the risks associated with it and discuss how the SEI is helping to secure wireless communications.