4G Network Security Attacks
Comprehensive resources on 4G/LTE network security vulnerabilities, attack methodologies, and exploitation techniques for security professionals.
4G Security Attack Resources
- Planning and Reconnaissance
- Vulnerability Analysis
- Exploitation Techniques
- Post-Exploitation Assessment
- Reporting and Remediation
- Radio Interface Attacks
- Core Network Attacks
- Authentication Attacks
- IMS and VoLTE Attacks
- LTE IMSI Catcher Implementation
- Diameter Location Tracking
- VoLTE Call Interception
- GTP Protocol Exploits
- LTE IMSI Catching Attack
- Diameter Attack Chain
- VoLTE Attack Chain
- Interactive Attack Simulations
Understanding 4G Security Architecture
Before diving into attacks, it's essential to understand the 4G security architecture and its components. This knowledge forms the foundation for effective security testing.
Key Security Components in 4G
Authentication
EPS-AKA (Authentication and Key Agreement) with mutual authentication and improved key hierarchy.
Encryption
AES-based algorithms for user and control plane protection with stronger key lengths.
Network Domain Security
IPsec for backhaul protection and secure communication between network elements.
Signaling Security
Diameter protocol for signaling, with improved security features compared to SS7.
IMS Security
Security mechanisms for IP Multimedia Subsystem and VoLTE services.
Diameter Security Challenges in 4G
The Diameter protocol is a critical signaling protocol in 4G networks that, despite improvements over SS7, still introduces significant security challenges. Understanding these vulnerabilities is essential for comprehensive security testing.
While Diameter was designed with security in mind, including transport layer security and peer authentication, implementation weaknesses and roaming interconnections can still lead to exploitable vulnerabilities. [^6]
VoLTE Security Challenges
Voice over LTE (VoLTE) introduces a new set of security challenges as voice services transition from circuit-switched networks to packet-switched IP networks. Understanding these vulnerabilities is crucial for comprehensive security testing.
VoLTE relies on the IP Multimedia Subsystem (IMS) and SIP protocol, which bring their own security considerations and potential attack vectors.
Related Security Resources
Explore security vulnerabilities in 3G networks, including authentication, encryption, and signaling weaknesses.
Learn about security vulnerabilities in 5G networks, including radio interface, core network, and service-based architecture weaknesses.
Discover security vulnerabilities in the Diameter protocol used in 4G and 5G networks for signaling.