Security and privacy in mobile networks

Challenges, proposals and considerations for governments

Mobile network operators face an ongoing challenge to provide users with a safe and secure mobile experience, while meeting their obligations to protect public safety. As ever more advanced and complex services are developed, the list of potential threats grows – and the scope for harm. Scams and attacks are becoming more sophisticated, targeting communications in general and not just communications from mobile devices, so solutions need to take a comprehensive approach.

Governments and policymakers naturally want to prevent such incidents and protect citizens to the greatest extent they can. However, in such a complicated environment, it is important that any intervention is properly targeted. Any action, however well intentioned, can result in a disproportionate cost or restrict the services they intended to protect.