Security Checklist

Comprehensive security measures for telecommunications providers

Telco Security Checklist

Use this comprehensive checklist to assess and improve your telecommunications security posture.

Network Security

Ensure these security measures are in place

Signaling Security

Ensure these security measures are in place

Data Protection

Ensure these security measures are in place

Identity and Access Management

Ensure these security measures are in place

Cloud Security

Ensure these security measures are in place

Mobile Network Security

Ensure these security measures are in place

IoT Security

Ensure these security measures are in place

Incident Response and Business Continuity

Ensure these security measures are in place

Supply Chain Security

Ensure these security measures are in place

Employee Training and Awareness

Ensure these security measures are in place

Security Checklist

Telco Security Checklist

Implement robust firewalls and intrusion detection/prevention systems (IDS/IPS)

Regularly update and patch all network equipment and software

Implement network segmentation to isolate critical systems

Use strong encryption for all data transmissions (e.g., TLS 1.3, IPsec)

Implement secure DNS practices (e.g., DNSSEC)

Deploy DDoS mitigation solutions

Implement proper access controls and authentication mechanisms

Regularly perform vulnerability scans and penetration testing

Implement SS7 and Diameter firewalls

Use SMS home routing to protect against SMS interception

Implement origin-based routing and filtering for international traffic

Deploy real-time monitoring and anomaly detection for signaling traffic

Implement GSMA DESS (Diameter Edge Security Solution) for Diameter signaling

Use SIP TLS for secure SIP signaling

Implement STIR/SHAKEN for call authentication and verification

Implement end-to-end encryption for sensitive customer data

Use strong access controls and authentication for customer data access

Regularly backup critical data and test restoration procedures

Implement data loss prevention (DLP) solutions

Ensure compliance with data protection regulations (e.g., GDPR, CCPA)

Implement secure data disposal procedures

Use data masking or tokenization for sensitive information in non-production environments

Implement multi-factor authentication (MFA) for all critical systems

Use role-based access control (RBAC) for system access

Regularly review and update access privileges

Implement strong password policies

Use privileged access management (PAM) solutions for administrative accounts

Implement secure remote access solutions (e.g., VPN with MFA)

Maintain detailed logs of all access attempts and activities

Implement proper security controls for cloud-based services

Use encryption for data at rest and in transit in cloud environments

Implement strong identity and access management for cloud resources

Regularly audit cloud configurations and access logs

Implement cloud security posture management (CSPM) solutions

Ensure compliance with relevant cloud security standards (e.g., CSA STAR)

Implement proper data backup and disaster recovery procedures for cloud-based data

Implement proper security measures for 5G networks (e.g., network slicing security)

Use strong authentication mechanisms for subscriber access

Implement secure boot and trusted execution environment for mobile devices

Use mobile device management (MDM) solutions for corporate devices

Implement secure over-the-air (OTA) update procedures

Deploy mobile threat defense (MTD) solutions

Implement proper security measures for eSIM provisioning and management

Implement strong authentication for IoT devices

Use encryption for IoT data transmission and storage

Regularly update and patch IoT devices and gateways

Implement network segmentation for IoT devices

Use secure boot and code signing for IoT firmware

Implement proper key management for IoT devices

Deploy IoT security monitoring and anomaly detection solutions

Develop and regularly test an incident response plan

Establish a computer security incident response team (CSIRT)

Implement proper logging and monitoring for all critical systems

Develop and test business continuity and disaster recovery plans

Conduct regular tabletop exercises for various security scenarios

Establish clear communication protocols for security incidents

Maintain relationships with relevant law enforcement and regulatory bodies

Implement a vendor risk management program

Conduct security assessments of critical suppliers

Include security requirements in vendor contracts

Implement proper controls for third-party access to systems and data

Regularly review and audit third-party security practices

Implement secure software development practices for in-house and vendor-supplied software

Maintain an up-to-date inventory of all hardware and software assets

Conduct regular security awareness training for all employees

Implement a security champions program

Conduct simulated phishing exercises

Provide role-specific security training for IT and security staff

Maintain an internal knowledge base of security best practices

Implement a security incident reporting mechanism for employees

Regularly communicate security updates and alerts to employees