Bluebugging

2nd May, 2023 Security

Disclaimer: Copyright infringement not intended.

Context

Concerned over an increase in instances of cybercrime, Prakasam district Superintendent of Police Malika Garg has asked the people to be wary of “bluebugging.”

What Is Bluebugging?

Bluebugging is a type of malicious attack that allows hackers to gain access to your Bluetooth-enabled devices.
It can target devices such as phones, tablets, laptops, and even earphones, speakers, and smartwatches.
Bluebugging is conducted by exploiting a security flaw in the Bluetooth protocol.
In order for an attacker to successfully execute a bluebugging attack, they must be within close range of the target device (usually within 10 m).
Once within range, the hacker can use specialized software and hardware tools to scan for and identify vulnerable Bluetooth devices.
Once the hacker has access to your device, they can gain access to your personal information, eavesdrop on or tape phone calls, and even control your device remotely.
Through Bluebugging, the attacker can also install a backdoor on the device for accessing it anytime in the future.

How Is Bluebugging Different from Bluejacking and Bluesnarfing?

While bluebugging may share some similarities with other Bluetooth attacks, like bluejacking and bluesnarfing, they are not the same.
Bluejacking is when someone sends you an unsolicited text message using Bluetooth. It’s more of an annoyance than a real security threat. The hacker can't gain access to your device, but they can send messages that contain links to malicious sites.
Bluesnarfing is a more serious threat than bluejacking, as it allows the attacker to gain access to your device and steal data.
Unlike bluebugging, bluesnarfing doesn't require any special tools or knowledge; all the attacker needs is access to your Bluetooth-enabled device. Also, bluebugging allows you to take control of the device in the future because of the backdoor, while bluesnarfing is not permanent.

How to prevent Bluebugging?

Turn off the Bluetooth when not in use.
Update device's software.
Update Bluetooth passwords.
Remove all the paired devices.
Turn off the "Auto join" option.
Use a Virtual Private Network (VPN)

VPN: https://www.iasgyan.in/daily-current-affairs/indias-new-vpn-rules

BLUEBUGGING: https://www.iasgyan.in/daily-current-affairs/blue-bugging

PRELIMS PRACTICE QUESTION

Q. Which of the following statements are incorrect?

a) The virtual private network, or VPN, is an encrypted connection over the Internet from a device to a network that prevents unauthorized people from eavesdropping on the traffic and allows the user to conduct work remotely.

b) Bluebugging can happen whenever a Bluetooth enabled device is within a 10-metre radius of the hacker.

1. Only a

2. Only b

3. Both a and b

4. Neither a nor b

Answer: 4