What could happen if sensitive data is stored on a satellite?

Storing sensitive data on a satellite significantly increases the risk of data breaches. Satellites rely on communication channels to transmit data back to Earth, and these channels can be vulnerable to interception by unauthorized parties. If sensitive information (such as personal, financial, or governmental data) is transmitted or stored without robust encryption and security measures, it can be exploited by malicious actors.

In addition, satellites are not inherently equipped with the same security infrastructure as terrestrial systems, which can lead to vulnerabilities that attackers might exploit. As satellites communicate back to ground stations, any interception or unauthorized access could result in significant consequences, including the loss of privacy or exposure of critical information.

The other options do not accurately represent the risks associated with storing sensitive data on satellites. Improvements in system performance, faster data retrieval, or ease of management do not counterbalance the heightened risk of data breaches associated with such practices.