Hackers introduced "Kraken" to crack the encryption algorithm in GSM networks

As we all know, the vast majority of cellular networks work with GSM networks, a situation that is observed in most countries. Mobile phones operating in GSM networks now number about 3.5 billion worldwide. One can imagine what a tidbit interception and wiretapping of conversations on cellular is for attackers of all kinds. True, all the data transmitted over GSM networks is encoded using the A5 / 1 algorithm (in most networks), and it is not so easy to decode the transmitted data (at least for ordinary hackers, it is clear that special services have long used excellent equipment that allows everyone to work without problems do it). So, the A5 / 1 encryption algorithm very quickly breaks open the other day the software called "Kraken".

Hackers have so far provided only preliminary information on this software, promising to make a full presentation at the Black Hat Security Conference.

Back in December, enthusiastic specialists developed special cryptographic tables that facilitate and accelerate the process of breaking the A5 / 1 algorithm. Now the tables themselves and the software, which now breaks the above-mentioned algorithm in literally minutes, have been finalized. Frank Stevenson, one of the authors of the development, is not going to stop there and is already working on improving his Kraken so that the algorithm can be cracked in seconds, not minutes.

Experts say that with such software, the process of hacking the data encryption algorithm is so simplified, and the cost of such hacking is so reduced that even a little more - and almost children can buy the appropriate equipment and software for wiretapping conversations on a mobile phone.

True, there’s a small catch with the hardware - the mentioned team, headed by Frank Stevenson, is not going to supplement its software with hardware (that is, a device for intercepting calls), because they fear persecution by representatives of the law. But they argue that, in principle, you don’t even need to develop anything, there are already relatively cheap devices that can easily intercept almost any conversation in a certain area of ​​coverage.

Interestingly, despite the announced software, representatives of the GSM Association said only that "hacking the data encryption algorithm in GSM networks is a very expensive, complex and time-consuming process." In general, so far no one is particularly worried about this. Maybe the information bomb will “explode” next week when hackers showcase their Black Hat software? Let’s see, for now, it remains to be hoped that a hacker boy from a neighboring house is still not able to listen to conversations on his mobile phone, no matter what the guys from GSM Association say.

Here you can find the source .