Chris Paget (a hacker) and computer security researcher created a device that can spy on and even record some cell phone calls. This interceptor, costing only $1,500, cleverly portrayed the weaknesses of the Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM) last week in Las Vegas, at the world’s largest annual hacker convention.
With this device Paget could spy on dozens of calls made by other hackers present in the room. Paget’s main objective was to prove that how numerous criminals, terrorists and other anti-social elements can use this same technology to intercept confidential calls that can harm the security of various nations. He also wanted to show the world a few options that consumers can use to protect themselves from these attacks. This remarkable gadget works by creating a cell phone base station that tricks cell phones into routing their outbound calls through his device, allowing it to encrypt the whole conversation.
This device can also be very useful for security agents, private investigating firms and crime cells as well who can catch criminals faster and maybe also prevent future attacks and acts of terrorism. This cheaply priced device mimics more expensive devices (called IMSI catchers) that are already being used by intelligent and law enforcement agencies.
Paget’s device captures only 2G GSM calls, making AT&T and T mobile calls that use only GSM, susceptible to interception.
