Mobile laptop broadband is not a necessity when traveling because the family can get mobile internet access through a cell phone. Some of the latest phones have large screens that make viewing Web pages much more convenient. Several cell carriers have recently reduced the cost of their data plans, making it less expensive to get wireless internet service on a phone than on a laptop.
If families choose to leave their mobile Internet laptops at home while traveling, they can get online using a cell phone with a data plan. However, they should be careful when purchasing a GSM phone because their conversations and data may be collected. V3, a UK technology news site, reported that a GSM phone hack was revealed by researcher Chris Paget at the recent Defcon security conference in Las Vegas. GSM is the most popular mobile telephone standard in the world, with approximately 80 percent of the market share.
Mr. Paget built a portable cell phone reception tower at the cost of $1,500. The system routes local GSM phones through itself and then gathers information and data from GSM handsets. During his demonstration, Mr. Paget logged approximately 30 phone calls made by audience members, with their consent. This was used to show how vulnerable GSM phones are when it comes to attack by hackers.
The most logical solution is for these phones to move toward supporting 3G networks. Using a phone vendor like RIM (Blackberry devices) or service carrier like AT&T will also help. These use encryption systems that increase security and limit consumer exposure to attacks. However, the AT&T voice and SMS encryption service is apparently only offered to government and business consumers at this time. Mr. Paget believes that it would take more effort to fix GSM than to upgrade it, so it should be made obsolete.
Even the simple purchase of a cell phone now involves some consideration due to the vulnerabilities it may experience. Mobile phone users should heed this information if they are interested in purchasing a GSM phone because it may become the target of a hack. A better idea is to steer clear of these and purchase a phone that is compatible with 3G or 4G.
Source: Berridge, Edward. The Inquirer.net. Defcon: GSM phone hack is revealed.
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