EFF to FCC: SS7 is Vulnerable, and Telecoms Must Acknowledge That

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It’s unlikely you’ve heard of Signaling System 7 (SS7), but every phone network in the world is connected to it, and if you have ever roamed networks internationally or sent an SMS message overseas you have used it. SS7 is a set of telecommunication protocols that cellular network operators use to exchange information and route phone calls, text messages, and other communications between each other on 2G and 3G networks (4G and 5G networks instead use the Diameter signaling system). When a person travels outside their home network’s coverage area (roaming), and uses their phone on a 2G or 3G network, SS7 plays a crucial role in registering the phone to the network and routing their communications to the right destination. On May 28, 2024, EFF submitted comments to the Federal Communications Commision demanding investigation of SS7 and Diameter security and transparency into how the telecoms handle the security of these networks.

What Is SS7, and Why Does It Matter?

When you roam onto different 2G or 3G networks, or send an SMS message internationally the SS7 system works behind the scenes to seamlessly route your calls and SMS messages. SS7 identifies the country code, locates the specific cell tower that your phone is using, and facilitates the connection. This intricate process involves multiple networks and enables you to communicate across borders, making international roaming and text messages possible. But even if you don’t roam internationally, send SMS messages, or use legacy 2G/3G networks, you may still be vulnerable to SS7 attacks because most telecommunications providers are still connected to it to support international roaming, even if they have turned off their own 2G and 3G networks. SS7 was not built with any security protocols, such as authentication or encryption, and has been exploited by governments, cyber mercenaries, and criminals to intercept and read SMS messages. As a result, many network operators have placed firewalls in order to protect users. However, there are no mandates or security requirements p

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