Phone Hacking Fears and Facts
Editor’s Note (2/1/19): For years hackers have exploited a vulnerable telecommunications protocol, Signaling System 7 (SS7), in order to intercept text messages and phone calls. Most recently digital bank robbers have used SS7’s weaknesses to foil the protection of two-factor authentication. Our explanation of this protocol, written in 2016, demonstrates what it is and why it is so insecure. Apple’s ongoing standoff with the government over passcode-protected iPhones is still…
