GTP Vulnerabilities & Security Issues
Comprehensive database of GTP protocol vulnerabilities affecting 4G and 5G mobile core networks
GPRS Tunneling Protocol (GTP) is a group of IP-based communications protocols used to carry General Packet Radio Service (GPRS) within GSM, UMTS, LTE, and 5G networks. GTP-C (Control Plane) is used for signaling between gateway nodes, while GTP-U (User Plane) is used for carrying user data.
Critical Vulnerabilities
Description
A vulnerability in the GTP-C protocol implementation allows an attacker to manipulate the path of GTP tunnels, potentially leading to traffic redirection and interception.
Impact
An attacker can redirect user traffic through malicious nodes, enabling traffic interception, modification, and potential data exfiltration.
Affected Versions
Description
A buffer overflow vulnerability in GTP-U packet processing allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code or cause a denial of service condition.
Impact
Remote code execution or denial of service in affected GTP-U implementations, potentially leading to complete system compromise.
Affected Versions
Description
A vulnerability in GTP-C authentication mechanisms allows attackers to bypass authentication checks and perform unauthorized operations.
Impact
Unauthorized access to core network elements, potential for subscriber data theft, service disruption, and fraudulent activities.
Affected Versions
Description
A vulnerability in GTP tunnel establishment procedures allows attackers to hijack existing tunnels and redirect subscriber traffic.
Impact
Interception of subscriber data, man-in-the-middle attacks, and potential for subscriber impersonation.
Affected Versions
Description
A vulnerability in GTP-U tunnel validation allows attackers to inject packets into existing tunnels, potentially leading to traffic manipulation and data injection.
Impact
Injection of malicious traffic into subscriber sessions, potential for data manipulation and malware delivery.
Affected Versions
Mitigation Strategies
Deploy specialized GTP firewalls with deep packet inspection capabilities to filter malicious traffic, validate tunnel establishment procedures, and implement strict access controls for GTP-C and GTP-U messages.
Implement mutual authentication between GTP peers, deploy IPSec tunnels for GTP traffic, and use strong encryption mechanisms to protect user plane data from interception and manipulation.
Implement proper network segmentation to isolate GTP traffic, restrict access to core network elements, and deploy monitoring systems to detect anomalous GTP signaling patterns.
Maintain an active patch management program to apply vendor security updates promptly, monitor security advisories, and conduct regular vulnerability assessments of GTP implementations.