Does 5G Require New Approach To Cybersecurity -Trendinginsocial

The fifth generation (5G) network is currently the most advanced wireless network technology, which will create a hyper-connected world. It brings in new opportunities for tech advancement in different industries. Furthermore, with the complete rollout of 5G, a massive upgrade in the Internet of Things is guaranteed, along with smart cities and industries. The benefits of 5G are many, including improved speed, responsiveness and reduced power consumption. However, along with the numerous benefits, a few security reasons are associated with it. Primarily, it is the reason why 5G requires a new approach to cybersecurity. Let us understand this in further detail.

Why Does 5G Require A New Approach To Cybersecurity?

Security check was easy for the predecessors of the 5G network because of the fewer hardware traffic points of contact. However, 5G networks have significantly higher traffic routing points. Therefore, constant security monitoring on 5G becomes a complex task. Also, previously, the networks had limited capacity and speed. However, it is not the case with 5G, which, if not considered, might hurt cybersecurity.

Thirdly, IoT devices are not very secure by design. The market is filled with many low-end smart devices. As discussed above, 5G will massively upgrade the IoT. Subsequently, the cyber threat associated with it will also increase. Moreover, 5G will create a hyper-connected world by establishing connections between billions of devices. Consequently, the breach points will be massive too.

The possible cyber threats in a particular context with 5G are botnet attacks, DDoS attacks, MiTM attacks, call inception and location tracking. Currently, one can use What Is My IP to know the geolocation of a device but not the precise location. However, 5G, with its location tracking, can put the personal security of internet users at risk.

How 5G Thickens Cyber Risks?

Because of its distributed software-based digital routing, it is challenging to do choke point inspection when using 5G. Monitoring cyber threats become difficult without the ability to engage in choke point inspection. Furthermore, it brings vulnerability by transforming physical appliances into virtual forms. Even though it is a benefit and helps expand IoT resources, the low security in such devices will pose a problem. To sum it up, the three crucial security considerations revolving around the 5G network are its architecture, virtualization and IoT proliferation.

5G will not only expand interconnectivity but will also grow the cyberattack with increased vulnerability. There must be more than the current cybersecurity measures to tackle future cyber threats. Therefore, 5G requires a new approach to cybersecurity.

Ways To Mitigate Cyber Risks In 5G Network

Firstly, all the stakeholders of the 5G ecosystem should create secure devices and implement the stand cybersecurity rules. For example, manufacturers of smart devices should pay special attention to ensure that the devices come with pre-built security to ensure IoT does not become a threat. Also, software protection is a must because most of the cyberattacks related to 5G will result from software-based attacks.

It is not possible to fight the network security of 5G alone. Government and 5G businesses need to come together to invest in the network security of 5G. Also, as discussed above, keeping an eye on the network architecture of 5G takes time and effort. AI-powered cyber solutions can help fix this problem. The ability of AI to self-learn and update itself will play a crucial role in ensuring cybersecurity in the 5G network.

Other ways of mitigating 5 G-related cyber threats include installing proper antivirus and malware solutions in the devices and strong password security practices. Also, it is crucial to building cyber-resilient systems and networks when connected to 5G to enhance cybersecurity. Even though it does not provide complete protection, it builds resilience. The process of building a cyber-resilient system should begin with the identification of critical assets and potential targets. Then, businesses should carry out a proper analysis for the same. After identifying the critical assets, the companies should work towards creating a stand cybersecurity framework for the organization to deploy all the required security controls.

A Holistic Approach Towards 5G Cybersecurity

For holistic 5G cybersecurity, it is essential to consider all the network elements, including hardware, software and firmware. Furthermore, one must proactively include robust cybersecurity solutions for the different stages of the network development lifecycle. Regulatory bodies should consider setting minimum security requirements for various hardware and software to ensure the same. One can enjoy a 5G network’s full potential when one manages the cybersecurity threats associated with it.