November 23, 2023 at 10:48AM
Private 5G networks are at risk due to a vulnerability in the GPRS Tunneling Protocol User Plane (GTP-U). The lack of encryption and authentication mechanisms in this critical link allows attackers to breach private 5G networks through packet reflection. To mitigate this risk, organizations should implement robust security protocols, firewalls, demilitarized zones (DMZs), and consider IPsec encryption. Additionally, external security devices and Trend Micro’s cybersecurity platform, Trend Vision One™, can enhance network security. Download the full study from Trend Micro Research for a comprehensive analysis and recommended strategies.
Meeting Notes Summary:
In the meeting, the discussion focused on cyber threats and weaknesses in private 5G networks. The main vulnerability identified was in the GPRS Tunneling Protocol User Plane (GTP-U) which lacks encryption and authentication mechanisms, making 5G networks susceptible to attacks. The vulnerability allows attackers to create GTP packets and infiltrate the network, compromising IoT devices. It was reported to the Zero Day Initiative (ZDI) and has a high Common Vulnerability Scoring System (CVSS) score of 8.3.
Private enterprise 5G networks can be deployed in different configurations, but the vulnerability lies in the 5G core User Plane interface (N3) which acts as a gateway for potential attackers. The meeting discussed how attacks can be initiated both in the downlink and uplink directions, with attackers requiring a valid Tunnel Endpoint Identifier (TEID) associated with the target IP.
The root cause of the vulnerability is the lack of peer verification for user plane packets, leaving a significant security gap. The meeting mentioned the proposal of implementing IPsec to enhance security, although its adoption may face limitations due to cost and scalability challenges.
To mitigate the risks, the meeting suggested implementing additional security measures such as firewalls and demilitarized zones (DMZs). It emphasized the need for a comprehensive approach to address the vulnerability, as it poses severe risks including ransomware attacks, data breaches, disruptions to critical operations, and degradation in service quality.
The meeting concluded by recommending proactive measures like comprehensive security protocols, regular patch updates, and robust intrusion detection systems to address the vulnerability. It also suggested specific security practices like implementing IPsec and secure tunneling mechanisms, using external security devices with IP cross-checking capabilities, and leveraging CTOne and Trend Micro’s Trend Vision One™ cybersecurity platform to enhance security.