Next time whenever you come across an open WiFi hotspot, avoid connecting your device at all costs. A modern spying device called IMSI catchers is used for tracking cell phone users without their knowledge while violating our rights of privacy.
In the meantime, law enforcers mainly used this tactic for locating suspects. They did it primarily by imitating a cell phone tower for establishing a connection. Even worse, this enabled them to intercept phone calls, transmit false messages and install spyware on their victims’ cellphones without approval.
Courtesy Citizen Lab
In addition to it, recently discovered reports also prove that a WiFi also has the capacity to perform this task. Therefore, read this article with immense concentration for preserving your privacy.
Had you known that a WiFi network has the ability to capture IMSI numbers? However, it can only do so with the help of smartphones available nearby. The devices present beyond the network signal are completely safe, but nobody knows for how long.
The “IMSI” stands for “International Mobile Subscriber Identity”, a special 15 digit used for authenticity as a cell phone user moves. The BlackHat Europe exhibited this latest IMSI catcher invasion that takes place instantly as a smartphone connects to a WiFi network (for both Android and iOS).
Fear not as users can always disable the WiFi calling feature; however, the auto connecting feature can be switched off only when in proximity to a WiFi network.
The latest iOS 10 update is comprised of all the advanced security features yet the devices are not secured 100%. For more information, stay with TTN.
