The arrival of 5G networks is set to shake up global connectivity, delivering unprecedented speeds, the ability to connect a vast number of devices, and ultra-low latency. However, this new technology also introduces a series of cybersecurity challenges. This blog post aims to explore the main risks and threats associated with 5G networks while presenting innovative solutions to mitigate these problems. Additionally, the cybersecurity benefits 5G can offer to users will also be discussed.

The history of mobile communication

Let’s start by briefly reviewing the history of mobile communications. In 1886, Heinrich Hertz became the first person to generate and conclusively demonstrate the existence of electromagnetic waves. Later, in the early 20th century, Guglielmo Marconi created the first wireless telegraph system based on radio waves.

It wasn’t until the 1980s, however, that analog cellular networks were widely adopted, albeit in the form of large, heavy voice terminals. The introduction of 2G enabled the digitalization of mobile networks and the transfer of data. In the 2000s, 3G increased speeds and 4G/LTE allowed for even quicker cellular connections.

Even though each phase has brought groundbreaking advancements, none has been as revolutionary as 5G with respect to its predecessor. 5G offers faster data transmission rates, reduced latency, the ability to connect more devices (particularly beneficial for IoT environments), and support for high-definition streaming.

Main threats for 5G networks

Despite its advantages, 5G networks face a growing number of threats due to the increased digitalization they offer. The following are some of the most pressing examples:

• Network Integrity and Availability:  The enhanced capabilities of connected devices can be exploited to launch distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks.
• Interception of Data and Communications: With more data being transferred at greater speeds, the risk of intercepting critical or sensitive data also increases.
• Virtualization, Softwarization, and Standardization:  5G networks rely heavily on technologies like Network Function Virtualization (NFV) and Software-Defined Networking (SDN). While these offer flexibility, they also open the door to new vulnerabilities.
• Vulnerabilities in IoT Devices:  IoT devices often serve as potential entry points for cyberattacks due to the vast number of connected devices from different manufacturers.  These devices typically have limited resources and continuous 24/7 connectivity. This makes them an attractive target for hackers aiming to compromise sensitive organizations.

Nevertheless, these threats can be effectively mitigated by implementing a good cybersecurity policy.

Strengthened cybersecurity in 5G networks

As with other technologies, cybersecurity solutions must be implemented in 5G networks. Below are key methods for enhancing security in 5G environments:  

• Network Slicing:  5G network slicing enables the creation of virtual subnetworks tailored to specific services, thus improving the security and efficiency of private 5G networks. By isolating devices and removing sensitive data from public networks, slicing ensures better access control. Combined with VPNs, it provides additional protective layers for critical information.
• Advanced Encryption: While 5G networks have adopted stronger encryption algorithms, end-to-end encryption strategies remain essential. Post-quantum cryptography is also recommended to protect data in 5G networks against future attacks from quantum computing.
• Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): MFA boosts security in 5G networks by employing multiple authentication and verification tools. It combines passwords, biometric tokens, and physical devices to prevent any unauthorized access and protect sensitive data.  Public/private key pairs are also used across access networks to protect subscriber identities.
• Extended Detection and Response (XDR): XDR combines artificial intelligence  (AI) and machine learning (ML) to detect and respond to threats in real time. By analyzing data across multiple security layers, it connects and correlates information to generate automated responses. This proactive approach anticipates attacks and minimizes the impact of security incidents, making it ideal for high-speed, low-latency 5G environments.
• Advanced Firewalls: The use of advanced 5G firewalls to protect the different elements that make up the network, their communication (APIs), and IoT devices—whether embedded or distributed via Multiaccess Edge Computing (MEC)—increases the level of security.
• Continuous Patching and Updating: Regular maintenance of software and hardware is crucial to avoid known vulnerabilities in 5G core elements and IoT devices. This includes updating firmware and operating systems, applying patches as soon as they are available, and using automated monitoring tools to detect outdated or vulnerable devices and trigger alerts.

Cybersecurity advantages of 5G networks

Generally speaking, 5G networks offer several key cybersecurity advantages that we will detail below.

5G makes it possible to accurately pinpoint the location of devices, a critical asset for cybersecurity. This capability helps detect anomalous patterns often associated with fraud, preventing attacks much more efficiently. It also improves incident response times and supports geolocation-based authentication, providing real-time protection.

5G implements advanced authentication methods like multi-factor authentication (MFA) and network-based authentication, thus strengthening system security. These technologies significantly reduce the risk of unauthorized access and provide robust defenses against  threats such as phishing and SIM swapping. As a result, users and devices are better protected against increasingly sophisticated identity theft techniques.

Network slicing is a 5G capability that can segment the network into independent sections, each one with customized security policies. Combined with private networks, this approach isolates specific traffic, reducing the attack surface and reinforcing security. In addition, this segmentation allows for more granular, efficient management strategies that better adapt to the needs of key industrial sectors.

Initiatives such as OpenGateway boost security through the use of standard APIs (responsible for combining systems, applications and the 5G network). These tools help create advanced anti-fraud solutions capable of detecting and mitigating threats in real time. By interacting directly with network infrastructure, organizations can implement tailored strategies to prevent cyberattacks and improve response times.

Conclusions on cybersecurity in 5G networks

The implementation of 5G networks presents both challenges and opportunities in cybersecurity. While new threats emerge, 5G also introduces advanced capabilities that can significantly enhance user security. Companies, organizations, and users must implement proactive measures to mitigate risks and make the most of the advanced security capabilities offered by 5G networks.

At Teldat, we have analyzed the topics detailed in this blog through the lens of both cybersecurity and 5G networks. These considerations have become central to shaping our solutions for 2025 and beyond.