Detecting IMSI Catchers: Tools, Apps and Methods You Should Know

Cybersecurity testing

IMSI catchers, sometimes referred to as cell-site simulators or fake cell towers, can be difficult to detect since they imitate real cell towers to capture mobile phone data. With proper cybersecurity testing measures, you can effectively be alert to these unwanted interceptions. Take a look at these common tools and methods that can efficiently assist in identifying IMSI catchers:

Top Techniques and Resources to Detect IMSI Catchers

1. Use Mobile Apps and Tools

Some apps and technologies are designed to monitor and detect irregularities in cell networks.

SnoopSnitch (Android): This app analyses your phone’s network traffic and alerts you of strange cell tower behaviour. It requires access to low-level network data, which is mostly limited to particular Android phones equipped with Qualcomm chipsets.

Cell Spy Catcher (Android): After starting the learning process of this app, it collects data on local networks to identify which one among them is a trap. Then it alerts you with a red interface screen.
AIMSICD (Android): Detects IMSI catchers and reports on odd network activity, such as quick cell tower changes or downgrades to earlier network technologies (such as 2G). Phones switching to older network technologies usually happen due to IMSI catchers.

Croatian Telecom’s AntiSpy (Android/iOS): An app that uses radio signal analysis to determine when your phone connects to a rogue cell tower.

Apple’s limitations on low-level network data access have led to a decrease in the number of apps accessible for iOS; however, network abnormalities can occasionally be found by keeping an eye on variations in signals.

2. Look for Unusual Network Activity

IMSI catchers can force phones to connect to low-security older networks (2G or 3G) to facilitate communication interceptions. Look out for:

Downgraded connection: Your phone may unexpectedly switch from 4G/5G to 2G/3G or lose high-speed internet connection. Specifically, if it happens in an area that has outstanding coverage, it could be due to an IMSI catcher.

Frequent disconnections: When an IMSI catcher is nearby, your phone might keep on disconnecting and reconnecting with the network.

Suspicious network names: IMSI catchers can also broadcast non-standard or dubious network IDs. For example, a tower with an unusual name or ID might be a fake one.

3. Observe Battery and Signal Behaviour

IMSI catchers compel gadgets to transmit at faster speeds and consume more power.

Rapid battery drain: If the battery on your phone runs out more quickly than usual, it can be because it’s transferring an unusual amount of data to a fake tower.

Unusual signal intensity: An IMSI catcher may be indicated by abrupt, inexplicable changes in signal strength or highly fluctuating signal bars. Strong signals can be sent by these devices to overpower authorised cell towers.

4. Monitoring Tools for Experts

Advanced phone users with proper cybersecurity knowledge can utilise monitoring software or equipment to analyse cellular networks themselves.

Software-defined radios (SDRs): SDR devices enable users to identify and analyse mobile phone signals. By identifying aberrant radio frequencies and patterns, an SDR can aid in the detection of IMSI catchers if used with the appropriate software.

Cellular anomaly detectors: These are sophisticated technologies used by security experts and researchers that monitor local signals. These help detect abnormal cell tower behaviour that is essential in the current rise of data breaches, unexpected cyber attacks, or traffic demand in Australia.

5. Network Data Monitoring

Certified cyber security consultants in Australia suggest users to monitor network data. This includes the phone’s network logs like signal strength, base station ID, and encryption status that certain apps or customised firmware can access. Keeping an eye on this data can help determine when the phone connects to a dubious tower that may have less secure encryption or an unidentified ID.

6. Physical Indicators

IMSI catchers are usually non-stationary and can be implanted on vehicles or drones. So if you observe any strange and unknown vehicles or equipment within your local area and your phone network falters near it, it could be a clue.

7. Use Encrypted Communication

If you are wary of an IMSI catcher but are tech savvy or cannot locate it, resolve to the simple methods of using end-to-end encrypted apps. Switch to apps like WhatsApp, Signal, or Telegram for calls and texts for that while. These platforms prevent intercepted communications from being decoded, even if you do not know how to use tools for detecting IMSI catcher.

Limitations

False positives: Certain apps, software, or devices may identify normal network issues as suspicious.

Limited detection on iPhones: iOS restricts access to low-level radio data, making it more difficult to operate apps that monitor cellular networks.

Conclusion

Using these tools, apps and methods will help you detect IMSI catchers easily without any complications. If you find one fake network then you can immediately switch off your phone for a while or take necessary primary actions. Cybernetic Global Intelligence can help you with consultations on cybersecurity testing if you are unable to use monitoring tools. As spotting IMSI catchers is not always simple, we are here to help you if the issue is critical and out of your expertise. Call us at 1300 292 376 or send a mail at contact@cybernetic-gi.com. You can also visit our website www.cyberneticgi.com. Use phones safely and securely with us!

Post a Comment