Fake BTS Network and How to protect

A fake BTS network (whose full name is Base Transceiver Station), illegal base station, or directly attack user by cellular tower set up with malicious intent to intercept mobile communication to spy on their victims, steal sensitive information, or even launch subsequent attacks. Some of the major vulnerabilities associated are listed below:

• Using a 2G system (A5/1 encryption), an attacker can insert a device into a mobile system that acts as a fake BTS and can crack in real time because it lacks strong encryption.
• A fake BTS attack can deny user network access via the internet, message, and call.
• Attackers can inject phishing, fake websites directly via HTTP.
• Enter your credentials and download malware from the website’s unknown source.
• Many old phone networks use 2G and do not authenticate themselves.
• A wireless local area network has been maliciously added to the system to allow a hacker to conduct a man-in-the-middle attack.

How to Protect Fake BTS Attacks:

• use the latest networks, such as 4G/5G. They have better encryption and mutual authentication between towers and phones.
• Disable 2G if your phone allows 2G connection
• If your phone suspects an attack, disconnect it or enable airplane mode.
• Monitor your network behavior
• Avoid clicking on a link that contains viruses. malware or phishing scam.
•  Avoid the installation of fake access points into a WLAN system

Reference doctument:

• https://patents.google.com/patent/US20150271194A1/en

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