4G/LTE Mobile Network Attacks
Modern network vulnerabilities in 4G LTE infrastructure, IMS, and advanced mobile services
4G LTE networks introduced significant security improvements but remain vulnerable to sophisticated attacks. These networks face threats from rogue base stations, protocol exploitation, IMS vulnerabilities, and VoLTE attacks. While more secure than 2G/3G, 4G networks are the current primary target for mobile network attackers.
Key Vulnerabilities
- • Rogue eNodeB (fake base stations)
- • IMSI extraction vulnerabilities
- • VoLTE and IMS protocol flaws
- • Location tracking weaknesses
Common Attack Types
- • Man-in-the-middle attacks
- • Denial of service
- • Call and SMS interception
- • IMSI catching via downgrade
All 4G/LTE Attacks
Despite 4G LTE's improved security, IMSI extraction attacks exploit vulnerabilities in the attach procedure to capture subscriber identities before encryption is established.
Voice over LTE (VoLTE) exploits target vulnerabilities in the IMS architecture and SIP protocol to intercept calls, perform denial of service, or manipulate call routing.
Rogue eNodeB attacks involve deploying fake LTE base stations that impersonate legitimate network infrastructure to intercept communications and perform man-in-the-middle attacks.
Man-in-the-Middle attacks on LTE networks position the attacker between the device and legitimate network infrastructure to intercept, monitor, and manipulate communications.
Denial of Service attacks on LTE networks aim to disrupt service availability by overwhelming network resources, exploiting protocol vulnerabilities, or jamming radio frequencies.
Location tracking attacks exploit LTE protocols and network architecture to determine the physical location of mobile devices without user consent or awareness.