Sniffing GSM Data, 007 Style!

We've all watched a lot of James Bond and other geeky movies, where they are able to sniff GSM data and intercept calls using a van! Does that exist in the real world?

Well I have been doing a bit of research on GSM sniffing tools and techniques that can allow penetrating GSM Networks. During this I came across a device that is basically used to intercept/record/jam GSM cellular communications. These devices are sold commercially, however can be only obtained by Low Enforcement and Govt. Agencies :). The price of these units is upwards to $500,000 USD. So they do exist, and in van styles ;).

More information about these devices can be found on:

Homeland Security Strategies

CryptoPhone

Also check out this Open Source GSM Scanner project, looks interesting:

The Hacker Choice (THC, GSM)


UPDATE:
see our new post:
GSM Hacking on the Cheap! which includes a Black Hat Presentation.

Also see a youtuve video demonstration of how it is done and how you can protect agains it with software:


Update October 2008:

See our youtube video post with full hacking details for building a gsm sniffer for under 1000 USD:
http://www.uaehackers.com/2008/10/layerone-2008-david-hulton-intercepting.html