SS7 Attacks - The Exploit That Can Intercept Your Calls and Texts
In an era where cybersecurity threats are constantly evolving, one of the lesser-known but dangerous vulnerabilities in the global telecom infrastructure involves a protocol called Signaling System 7 (SS7) . This system, crucial to how mobile networks communicate with each other, is vulnerable to attacks that allow hackers to intercept calls, read text messages, and track users’ locations. But what exactly is an SS7 attack, and why should you be concerned? Let’s dive into how this attack works and why it remains a significant threat today. What is SS7? SS7, or Signaling System 7, is a set of protocols used by telecommunication networks to exchange information necessary for setting up and routing phone calls, sending SMS messages, and enabling services like roaming between different networks. It acts as the backbone of global mobile communication, allowing different phone networks to communicate with each other efficiently. SS7 was designed in the 1970s, at a time when security was no