Getting a stranger’s phone kicked off the cellular network costs a few dollars
Overview
Researchers from Michigan State University and three partner institutions conducted an experiment demonstrating how easily a new smartphone can be taken off a cellular network. They purchased a Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7, copied its identification number from the sealed box, and reported the phone as lost to its carrier. Once they opened the box and set up the device, it was unable to connect to the network due to this fraudulent reporting. The researchers identified six vulnerabilities in the process that allowed them to disable the phone. This incident raises concerns about the security of mobile devices and the potential for misuse of identification numbers, which could lead to more widespread targeting of users' devices by malicious actors.
Key Takeaways
- Affected Systems: Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7, cellular networks
- Action Required: Users should be cautious about sharing their device identification numbers and carriers should implement stricter verification processes for lost device reports.
- Timeline: Newly disclosed
Original Article Summary
Researchers at Michigan State University and three partner schools bought a Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7, copied the identification number printed on the sealed box, and reported the phone to its carrier as lost. Then they opened the box and set the phone up the way a launch-day buyer would. It would not connect. The phone was new, unopened, and sitting on a lab bench the entire time. The team found six weaknesses in the … More → The post Getting a stranger’s phone kicked off the cellular network costs a few dollars appeared first on Help Net Security.
Impact
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7, cellular networks
Exploitation Status
No active exploitation has been reported at this time. However, organizations should still apply patches promptly as proof-of-concept code may exist.
Timeline
Newly disclosed
Remediation
Users should be cautious about sharing their device identification numbers and carriers should implement stricter verification processes for lost device reports.
Additional Information
This threat intelligence is aggregated from trusted cybersecurity sources. For the most up-to-date information, technical details, and official vendor guidance, please refer to the original article linked below.