Security News > 2020 > August > NSA warns that mobile device location services constantly compromise snoops and soldiers

The United States National Security Agency has issued new advice on securing mobile devices that says location services create a security risk for staff who work in defence or national security.

The new guide [PDF], titled "Limiting Location Data Exposure", notes that smartphones, tablets and fitness trackers "Store and share device geolocation data by design."

The guide also suggests that it is impossible to stop mobile devices recording and revealing location data, partly because network operators can't help but collect such data in their normal course of business.

The document also warns: "Location data from a mobile device can be obtained even without provider cooperation. These devices transmit identifying information when connecting to cellular networks. Commercially available rogue base stations allow anyone in the local area to inexpensively and easily obtain real-time location data and track targets."

"While it may not always be possible to completely prevent the exposure of location information, it is possible-through careful configuration and use-to reduce the amount of location data shared," the document concludes.

News URL

https://go.theregister.com/feed/www.theregister.com/2020/08/05/nsa_location_data_guide/