IMSI Catcher - Mobile Tower Hacking
About This Course
IMSI Catcher Awareness & Mobile Network Security
Learn how mobile networks identify devices, the risks posed by IMSI catchers, and how to evaluate defenses. This course is strictly focused on lawful, ethical, and defensive cybersecurity awareness.
What You’ll Learn
- How cellular networks use IMSI and why it matters for privacy
- Threat models: rogue base stations, SMS interception risks, location privacy
- Safe lab design and Linux basics for research in controlled environments
- Awareness of SDR tooling (e.g., HackRF, gr-gsm) for legal testing and detection concepts
- Legal & ethical boundaries, detection strategies, and protective measures
Course Syllabus (Topics)
- Introduction
- What Is an IMSI Catcher (Awareness & Risks)
- About IMSI Numbers (Identity in Cellular Networks)
- How IMSI Catchers Work (High-Level Concepts & Defenses)
- Hardware Requirements (Overview & Safety Considerations)
- About Linux OS & Linux Distributions
- Hacking Lab Setup (Controlled, Isolated, & Lawful)
- Hide System’s IP (Privacy Concepts & Safe Practices)
- Linux Basics Command
- Setup HackRF (Awareness of SDR Mode & Compliance)
- Setup gr-gsm (IMSI Catcher Research Awareness)
- Location Privacy & IMSI (Risk Understanding & Mitigation)
- SMS Traffic Security (Threats, Detection & Protection)
Note: All tooling is discussed at a conceptual level for defense and detection. No instructions are provided for intercepting, decoding, or accessing third-party communications.
Minimum System Requirements
- Windows 8 / 10 / 11
- 4 GB RAM
- 250 GB HDD or SSD space
- Intel i3 (4th Gen) or newer processor
- Android phone
- Skill level: Beginner
Who Is This For?
- Students and beginners learning mobile network security fundamentals
- IT/security teams evaluating cellular threat models and mitigations
- Privacy-conscious professionals seeking awareness and best practices
Legal & Ethical Guidance
- Obey telecom, spectrum, and privacy laws in your jurisdiction.
- Use only shielded/isolated lab environments with your own devices and consent.
- Never attempt interception, decryption, or tracking of others’ communications.
- Obtain explicit written permission before any testing you don’t own/control.
🔴 Disclaimer
This content is for educational and informational purposes only. Please regard the term “hacking” as ethical hacking throughout. Demonstrations are performed only on our own systems and controlled lab setups. No illegal activity is shown or condoned. Our sole purpose is to raise cybersecurity awareness and help learners understand defense.
Cyber Octopus is not responsible for any misuse of the information provided.
Get Started Safely
- Prepare your system as per the requirements above
- Work only in a lawful, isolated lab with devices you own/control
- Follow local laws, organization policies, and ethical guidelines at all times
Stay ethical. Stay compliant. Strengthen defenses.
What You'll Get
Practical Learning
Work on real-world projects and build your portfolio
Expert Mentorship
Learn from industry experts with years of experience
Flexible Schedule
Learn at your own pace with flexible timings