Editorial of the Day: The Privacy Concerns We Must Prepare for With the Arrival of 5G (Indian Express)

With the arrival of 5G technology, a large number of electronic devices will potentially be connected to the internet, increasing the threat of ransomware attacks.

• The 5G technology has been rolled out across 13 Indian cities in 2022. It aims to provide higher data speeds with ultra-low latency, enhanced capacity and better user experience.
• The increase in the bandwidth will bring our devices online, making them smart. Internet of Things (IoT) devices enabled by 5G will enhance our lives.
• 5G technology will provide faster data analytics, robotics and artificial intelligence. It will be useful in traffic management, drone operations and smart mobility solutions.
• 5G has high security standards, with its encryption features making it impossible for attackers to decode the obtained information. This will protect the confidentiality of interconnected devices.

Security-Related Concerns Regarding 5G Technology

• Inherits existing vulnerabilities: Initially, the 5G technology will be built on existing 4G infrastructure, therefore, it will inherit vulnerabilities of the past.
• Increases scope of cyber attacks: Since more devices are connected to the internet, it increases the scope of cyber attacks. Such attacks can grow exponentially if not contained in time.
• Privacy concerns: Privacy concerns are expected to grow as the number of devices connected to the network increases.
• China-manufactured components: Majority of components used for 5G technology are manufactured in China and were imported before the ban on Chinese components came into effect.
  • Manufacturers of such equipment (Huawei and ZTE) have already been blacklisted by countries such as the USA and Canada.

Addressing Concerns Related to 5G Technology

• Even though the development of 5G technology is driven by market forces, governments must remain proactive on the security front.
• There is a need to have a collaborative arrangement between the government, academia and businesses.
  • Multi-sectoral collaboration: The existing 5G alliance by C-DOT needs to be scaled up as a Center of Excellence that will include the IITs and Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In) or any other national security organisation.
  • Testing of features: Telecom companies can be invited to test their 5G infrastructure and ethical hackers can be invited to break into the system, thereby identifying vulnerabilities.
  • Security standards: 5G service providers can be rewarded to promote adherence to security standards. Firms can be ranked on their security standards and the government can reward them through tax rebates.

Conclusion

• Concerned authorities must continue to publish advisories for end users in easily understood methods, in order to create well aware consumers.
• However, completely shifting the safety burden to citizens is not desirable. Other stakeholders must take greater responsibility.
• AI technology can help attackers to learn about the defence mechanisms and change their modus operandi. Service providers must take these into consideration.

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