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How IMSI Catchers, Like Stingrays, Track Your Location

Modern mobile devices are marvels of technology, boasting capabilities that rival, and often surpass, traditional desktops and laptops. They come equipped with a host of sensors, like gyroscopes, compasses, and multiple radio interfaces, making them versatile and powerful tools in our daily lives.

However, this added functionality also opens the door to a range of vulnerabilities. One particularly concerning threat is the IMSI catcher, also known as a Stingray. These devices are invasive tools that can intercept mobile phone traffic, track your location, and harvest personal data—all without your knowledge.

In this post, we’ll explore how IMSI catchers work, who uses them, and most importantly, how you can protect yourself from these threats.

What is an IMSI Catcher and How Does it Work?
Who Uses IMSI Catchers?
How Can You Stop IMSI Catchers?
- Does Airplane Mode Protect Against IMSI Catchers?
- Can I Be Tracked With My Phone Off?
Why GoDark Faraday Bags?
Common Questions About GoDark Bags
- Will My Phone’s Battery Drain Inside a GoDark Bag?
- Will My Phone Alarm Work Inside a GoDark Bag?
Protect Your Privacy with GoDark Bags

What is an IMSI Catcher and How Does it Work?

IMSI stands for International Mobile Subscriber Identity, a unique number assigned to every mobile user through their SIM card. IMSI catchers exploit this identity by posing as legitimate cell towers in what is known as a Man-in-the-Middle (MITM) attack.

When your mobile device searches for a signal, it naturally connects to the strongest one available. IMSI catchers trick your phone by broadcasting a stronger signal than real cell towers, causing your phone to connect to them instead. Once connected, the IMSI catcher captures your phone's IMSI and can then pass your connection back to the real network—all while silently eavesdropping on your calls, tracking your location, and accessing your personal data.

For older 2G networks, this process is relatively straightforward. But modern smartphones, which use more advanced 3G and 4G networks, require more sophisticated attacks. IMSI catchers can force these phones to downgrade to less secure 2G networks or disrupt their connection to legitimate towers, making them vulnerable to MITM attacks.

Who Uses IMSI Catchers?

Initially developed for military use, IMSI catchers have since been adopted by federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies in the U.S., with approval from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). These tools are powerful, and their use is tightly regulated to prevent abuse and protect citizens’ privacy.

However, the reality is that these devices have fallen into the hands of malicious actors. In a letter to Senator Ron Wyden, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) acknowledged the presence of rogue IMSI catchers in Washington, D.C., and other major U.S. cities. The implications are significant—business leaders, politicians, government officials, and private citizens are all at risk of being targeted by criminals or foreign entities.

How Can You Stop IMSI Catchers?

When considering how to protect yourself from IMSI catchers, common solutions like downloading an app, enabling airplane mode or turning off your phone might come to mind. However, these methods have significant limitations.

A recent study by Oxford University’s computer science department tested five popular Stingray detection apps on Google Play. The results were alarming—none of the apps could reliably detect all types of IMSI catcher attacks, leaving your phone vulnerable.

The most effective defense against these threats is to block the signals that IMSI catchers rely on. This is where Faraday bags come into play. These specially designed bags create a barrier that prevents radio waves from reaching your device, effectively neutralizing IMSI catchers and other surveillance tools.

Can I Be Tracked With My Phone Off?

Yes, even when your phone is turned off, it’s not entirely inactive. The radio system, controlled by a separate subsystem called Baseband, can still transmit signals. This design allows for features like remote device tracking but also means that simply turning off your phone doesn't protect you from IMSI catchers. Using a Faraday bag completely isolates your device from any external signals, providing robust protection.

Why GoDark Faraday Bags?

GoDark Faraday Bags offer superior protection against IMSI catchers, thanks to their advanced construction and comprehensive signal-blocking capabilities.

Key Features:

Wide Frequency Blocking: GoDark Bags block frequencies from 200 MHz to 40 GHz, covering a vast spectrum of signals, including:
- Cellular signals (2G, 3G, 4G LTE, 5G)
- Wi-Fi signals
- Bluetooth signals
- GPS signals
- RFID signals
Durable Construction:
- Exterior: Made with a rugged 600D poly outer shell, featuring a polyurethane face coat and a thermoplastic polyurethane backing for exceptional water and puncture resistance.
- Interior: Lined with high-shielding nickel and copper-woven fabric that ensures complete signal blocking.

When you place your device in a GoDark Faraday Bag, it becomes invisible to IMSI catchers, preventing any unauthorized access to your data or location. Whether you're concerned about privacy, security, or simply want peace of mind, GoDark Bags provide a reliable and effective solution.

Common Questions About GoDark Bags

Will My Phone’s Battery Drain Inside a GoDark Bag?

Not significantly. Modern smartphones are designed to manage power efficiently, even when searching for a signal. Additionally, you can switch your phone to airplane mode before placing it in the bag to further reduce any potential battery drain. This combination ensures maximum privacy protection while preserving your device's battery life.

Will My Phone Alarm Work Inside a GoDark Bag?

Yes, most phone alarms function independently of network connections and will still work inside a GoDark Bag. If your alarm is set through your phone's native clock app, it will operate normally. However, if your alarm relies on an internet connection or Bluetooth pairing (such as with some smart home devices), it will be blocked by the Faraday bag's signal shielding.

Protect Your Privacy with GoDark Bags

These days, privacy is increasingly at risk, and GoDark Bags provide a reliable and durable solution. Our bags are built to last, offering peace of mind for years to come. With a lifetime guarantee, you can trust GoDark Bags to protect your personal information and keep you safe from prying eyes.