Andhra Pradesh police cautioned smartphone users against bluebugging. In this context, we must understand what is bluebugging, what are the threats it poses and how it can be curbed, for the IAS exam science and technology segment of GS paper III.
What is Bluebugging?
- Bluebugging is a hacking technique that allows individuals to access a device with a discoverable Bluetooth connection.
- Once the target device accesses a rigged link, the attacker can take full control of it. The hacker can read and send messages, access the victim’s phonebook, and initiate or eavesdrop on phone calls.
- Once a device is blue-bugged, the entire control of the phone is accessible to the hacker. The hackers can retrieve all the data including messages, calls, and sensitive information from the device.
- Some phones or computers that don’t come with Bluetooth protection are more susceptible to attacks.
How Does Bluebugging Differ from Bluejacking and Bluesnarfing?
- Bluejacking – the idea is to “prank” device owners by sending harmless messages to annoy or promote products.
- Bluesnarfing – on the other hand, is a more sinister version of bluejacking since hackers access Bluetooth-connected devices without the device owners’ permission to download sensitive data, such as phone books, messages, or images.
- Bluebugging – goes beyond bluejacking and bluesnarfing, as it enables attackers to gain full control of a target device. Hackers can wirelessly interfere with a mobile phone to make and receive calls and messages on behalf of unsuspecting victims.
How to Avoid Bluebugging?
- A user can prevent such blue bugging by:
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- Removing the Bluetooth-paired devices or disabling them.
- Regularly updating the system software on the smartphone.
- Restricting the use of open WiFi.
- Installing VPN as an additional layer of security.
- Always deactivating Bluetooth settings when not in use.
Bluebugging [UPSC Notes]:- Download PDF Here
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