GSMA SCAS (Security Assurance Specification)

GSMA SCAS in context

The radio access network is the layer where mobile devices attach to the operator's infrastructure. Attacks in this layer include IMSI catching, rogue base stations, downgrade attacks and jamming, and defenses hinge on mutual authentication, integrity-protected signaling and Open RAN supply-chain hygiene.

The mobile core is where subscriber sessions, mobility and policy live. In 4G it is the EPC (MME, HSS, S/PGW); in 5G it is the Service-Based Architecture with AMF, SMF, UPF, AUSF, UDM and the NRF. Core exposure is the difference between a single-subscriber leak and a fleet-wide breach.

To place GSMA SCAS in the wider telecom-security picture, review NESAS, SBOM, SECAM, UPF, Patch Management and NRF Poisoning.

Related terms

• NESAS
• SBOM
• SECAM
• UPF
• Patch Management
• NRF Poisoning
• TNGF
• NDR

Related topic hubs

• 5G Security 5G SBA, SEPP, SUCI, 5G-AKA, N32 and service-based interface security.
• Telecom Security Audit Structured MNO/MVNO security audit methodology.
• SS7 Penetration Testing Interconnect pentest methodology for SS7 signaling.
• Telecom Penetration Testing End-to-end telecom pentest across signaling, radio and core.

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