5G networks will increase cyberthreats, says GSMA

Fifth generation networks will be exposed to various cyber threats because of their higher data speeds and lower latency, GSMA has disclosed.

The global association for telcos noted that 5G networks boast a wider attack surface because of the increased number of connected devices and the denser network infrastructure.

Head of Industry Security, GSMA, Samantha Kight, said, “5G networks will be exposed to various cyber threats, including Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks, potential data breaches, and ransomware. The higher data speeds and lower latency provide cybercriminals with new opportunities to launch sophisticated attacks.”

She explained that 5G reliance on cloud, virtualisation, and software-defined networking introduces new avenues for exploitation. She, however, stated that while 5G has a larger attack surface, the security capabilities designed into 5G by default, are significantly more sophisticated and effective than those provided by legacy mobile technologies.

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There were over one billion 5G connections worldwide at the end of 2022, and, today, over 230 mobile operators in more than 90 markets have launched commercial 5G services, she noted.

Kight said, “Whether 5G mobile is enabling rapid medical care and treatment or replacing the complex cabling between machines, improving productivity and workplace safety at the world’s largest fully connected factory, 5G is revolutionising enterprise services.

“5G mobile connectivity is undeniably delivering on its promise of huge productivity and societal gains. However, as highlighted by several speakers at our recent M360 UK Mobile Security & Industries event, as 5G connectivity proliferates and becomes more embedded in every aspect of our lives, so do the security risks associated with this revolutionary technology.

“From potential cyber-attacks to privacy concerns, managing security risks is an essential priority for individuals, businesses, and governments alike.”

Aside from the immediate cyber threat vulnerabilities 5G has, GSMA’s head of industry security further disclosed that the technology possesses supply chain vulnerabilities, privacy concerns, and IoT vulnerabilities.

She noted that for several reasons, the security requirements needed for 5G connectivity are also at risk of fragmentation. She said, “As the global mobile industry association, the GSMA sits in a unique position to bring together mobile operators and ecosystem partners and help define industry security specifications.

“We leverage our global community and platforms to promote awareness and find solutions to tackle industry fraud and security, as well as to assess, analyse, and report on the industry threat landscape. “

Kight declared that the association recently launched the GSMA Mobile Cybersecurity Knowledge Base to bring together a comprehensive threat analysis, the combined insight, and intelligence of industry experts from across the ecosystem.

She stated that by identifying and understanding the security threats posed by 5G and other mobile networks, the association has been able to map these threats to appropriate and effective security controls and provide useful guidance and best practices on a range of risks and mitigation measures.