BLOG POSTS > The Silent Threat: How a 50-Year-Old Protocol Threatens Mobile Phones Globally

The Silent Threat: How a 50-Year-Old Protocol Threatens Mobile Phones Globally

What is SS7 and Why is it Still Used?

SS7 is the backbone of global telecommunications. It facilitates critical functions such as call routing, SMS delivery, and global roaming. Although newer networks like 4G and 5G are on the rise, SS7 remains crucial for the purpose of supporting legacy infrastructure, making a complete switchover out of the question.

But SS7 was designed for a time when there were very few trusted operators of telecommunications. As such, it lacks robust authentication and security capabilities, leaving it vulnerable to cyberattacks.

The Dangers of SS7 Vulnerabilities

Cyberattackers and hackers can exploit SS7 vulnerabilities in various ways with little more than a victim's phone number. Once inside the network, attackers can:

Intercept and reroute telephone calls to eavesdrop on secret conversations.

Access SMS messages – revealing sensitive information, such as 2FA codes.

Follow in real time – allowing an attacker to see a person's activities.

These vulnerabilities have been exploited in a number of cyberattacks, including high-level foreign spy operations. For example, Chinese hackers have reportedly been exploiting SS7 vulnerabilities to target major American telecommunications companies, which has raised national security issues.

Why Hasn't SS7 Been Fixed?

The short answer: cost and complexity. SS7 is very deeply rooted in telecommunications infrastructure around the world, and swapping it out would mean huge expense. In addition, because SS7 stresses interoperability over security, installing effective security measures without causing chaos in current services is difficult.

Knowledgeable awareness is the other factor. SS7 threats, as compared to popular cyber threats such as phishing or ransomware, are not well recognized by average consumers. That has hampered campaigns to exert pressure on security upgrade.

Moving Towards a More Secure Future

While SS7 remains a weak point, the industry is gradually moving to more secure options. New networks such as 4G LTE and 5G include advanced encryption and verification mechanisms to offset such threats. But as the majority of networks remain reliant on SS7 for fall-back purposes, the weaknesses will persist until wholesale adoption of new technologies.

How Can You Protect Yourself?

Although SS7 security exploits are outside of end-users' control, here are some steps you can take to minimize risks:

Use end-to-end encrypted messaging apps like Signal or WhatsApp for sensitive communications instead of SMS.

Use two-factor authentication (2FA) based on app-based authenticators (like Google Authenticator) in lieu of SMS codes.

Stay informed about telecom security developments and be cautious when providing personal data over the phone.

Final Thoughts

SS7 has played a crucial role in global telecommunications for nearly 50 years, but its security shortcomings make it a liability in today’s digital world. As the transition to more secure networks continues, both telecom providers and regulators must prioritize security measures to protect users from cyber threats. Until then, awareness and proactive security practices remain our best defense against SS7-based attacks.

Should telecommunications firms be acting more to exploit these weaknesses? Tell us your thoughts in the comments section!