Secure Communication and Encryption Is Mobile Radio Service Save against Interception?
Many users believe that mobile phone calls cannot be intercepted as the system contains an encryption.
This is only partly correct. It is true that in most countries the signals sent between the network station
and the mobile phone are encrypted. But this data flow can be decrypted with a normal PC.
Yet more easily a mobile phone can be intercepted with mobile devices that simulate a network station and switch themselves in between the mobile phone and the service provider’s network.
With such a device (also known as ”IMSI catcher”) the encryption can be switched off by a simple command and the conversation can be listened to or recorded on a sound carrier.
How can this be avoided?
One widespread way nowadays is to avoid taking critical calls on mobile phones. However, this takes away much of the flexibility needed in business.
Code names are another way, specially used by investment bankers. This is also unsatisfactory and offers only moderate protection, for whoever is intercepting the conversation is aware, in most cases, what it is about and what he wants to learn.
The only remedy is using tap-proof mobile phones.
With the Beaucom T301E Enigma, a second generation mobile phone in this category, tap-proof communication on the latest technological level is guaranteed.
Yet more easily a mobile phone can be intercepted with mobile devices that simulate a network station and switch themselves in between the mobile phone and the service provider’s network.