It Takes a Village to Secure Cellular Networks

Cellular networks are and will increasingly be one of the most critical infrastructures, and their security is obviously crucial. However, securing cellular networks is a challenging task. These networks consist of multiple layers: physical, radio resource control, nonaccess stratum, and so on. Each layer, in turn, has its own protocols, such as those for attaching/detaching devices to/from the network and paging devices for notifications of incoming calls and SMS. Discusses the challenges and vulnerabilities that exist to secure cellular networks and examines initiatives to overcome these challenges.