Re: Questions on GSM Penetration test

From: M Lister (mlist@m-net.arbornet.org)
Date: Sat Jan 26 2002 - 06:16:02 PST

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    > 2. You can copy a sim card.
    
    Please forgive me if this sounds naive, but I was under a *STRONG*
    impression that it is practically impossible to copy a smart card. [Isnt
    that what is used as a SIM card]. From the little that I know of smart
    cards, security is their forte. I know absolute security is an unknown
    concept but still copying a smart card, wouldnt that be too
    difficult?? Wouldnt the cost involved in doing so probably be more than
    the benefits? 
    
    A smart card can deny access to certain memory regions based on how it is
    programmed. A card that has crappy programming can be exploited, but would
    this statement of yours always be true. If yes, I would love a small
    explanation. 
    
    > 3. You can eavesdrop comunications between basestations.
    
    Out of plain curiosity, is the data encrypted while in transit. I asked
    the dealer here in my country who promptly replied YES, but I doubt he had
    even a vague idea of what I was talking about. Given the amount of data
    and the required level of low latency in cell phones and the fact SIM
    cards are no Crays, I would *LOGICALLY* doubt it. But then I would love to
    be sure.
    
    Also if some one were to sniff/eavesdrop  such a conversation, how would
    he go about doing it? I am not asking for the exact info but a generic
    example would be wonderful.
    
    With regards,
    M
    
    
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