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The hacker is fully capable of accessing the 4G LTE network and playing the role of victim
According to recent reports from international media, a team of researchers has uncovered several critical vulnerabilities within the 4G LTE network. These flaws could allow hackers to access users' phone data and text messages, exposing personal information in full. Additionally, attackers could disrupt signal connectivity, send fake alerts to devices, or track a user's location without their knowledge.
The researchers who identified these weaknesses are from Purdue University and the University of Iowa. In their detailed report, they outlined ten distinct types of attacks and highlighted three key protocols in cellular networks that are particularly vulnerable to exploitation. Their findings reveal serious security and privacy risks that could be exploited by malicious actors.
"In our study, we examined the security and privacy issues related to three core components of the 4G LTE protocol—such as connection, separation, and paging. We discovered design flaws in the protocol itself as well as unsafe practices by some service providers. To address these issues, we developed a testing tool called LTE Inspector, which uses model-based verification and integrates symbolic model checkers and encryption protocol verifiers," the researchers explained.
The team tested eight of the ten proposed attacks using SIM cards from four major U.S. carriers. Through identity-based relay attacks, they were able to bypass network authentication and impersonate a victim’s device. This demonstrates how easily an attacker can manipulate the system and gain unauthorized access.
As a result, hackers are not only capable of accessing the 4G LTE network but can also act as victims, making it extremely difficult for users to detect such intrusions. The research paper also mentioned that the team had identified ten new attack methods, bringing the total to 19 when combined with existing ones. These attacks were categorized into three main groups: security threats, privacy violations, and service interruptions.
One of the most concerning issues identified was the "authentication relay attack." This type of attack allows malicious individuals to obtain the location of legitimate users—even with proper credentials. Such vulnerabilities could have severe consequences, including the potential to mislead law enforcement through false location data or even fabricate evidence.
In addition, if hackers send out fake emergency alerts or urgent messages, it could cause widespread public confusion and panic. During their testing, the researchers found that one major U.S. carrier had never implemented any form of encryption at all, leaving users completely exposed to eavesdropping and data interception.
However, there is some positive news: many carriers have already addressed the vulnerabilities and implemented necessary updates. Despite this, the most alarming aspect of the study is that exploiting these weaknesses requires minimal resources. Attackers can use low-cost equipment and open-source 4G LTE software—available for purchase by anyone—to launch attacks.
It is estimated that building a complete attack setup could cost between $1,300 and $3,900. The researchers also noted that once the carriers fix the bugs, they will release proof-of-concept code to help improve overall network security. This highlights the importance of ongoing vigilance and proactive measures to protect users from emerging threats in the wireless communication space.