Cryptographic security techniques for digital mobile telephones

The authors deal with the application of cryptographic techniques to digital mobile telephones, particularly with regard to the authentication of mobile subscribers. The analysis presented is based on the ETSI GSM900/DCS1800 system. The principles discussed are essentially applicable to all digital cordless and cellular telephone systems. The aspects discussed regard the choice of cryptographic algorithm, and protocols for authentication and mobile station location registration. Emphasis is placed on the use of public key cryptography in performing location registration. A particular scenario of cryptographic attack of the GSM system is considered. Various conclusions are drawn with regard to the choice of the above cryptographic algorithms and protocols