Law Enforcement Use of Cell-Site Simulation Technologies: An unofficial reader

Description

Cell-site simulators are devices that effectively transform a cell phone into a real time tracking device. A cell-site simulator—also known as an “IMSI catcher”—is a device that mimics a cell phone tower. These devices are commonly referred to as “Stingrays,” which is both a generic name and also refers to a specific type of IMSI catcher that is manufactured by the Harris Corporation. When the device is activated, cell phones in the surrounding area connect to the device in a similar way that the cell phones would connect to a cell tower. Once a phone connects to the cell-site simulator, the device is capable of obtaining specific identifying information for the phone, including information that enables law enforcement to determine the location of the phone and, more importantly, its user. The devices were initially designed for the military, but were later adapted for domestic law enforcement. Law enforcement agencies usually operate them from moving vehicles or, to a lesser extent, from airplanes. Stingray phone tracker – Wikipedia Meet the machines that steal your phone’s data – arstechnica Brave new world of cell-site simulators – Heath Hardman StingRays, A guide for criminal defense attorneys – ACLU Stingray tracking devices: Who's got them? – ACLU Federal law enforcement agents fly small planes loaded with gear to spy on Americans' cell phone calls – WSJ LAPD spy device taps your cell phone – LAWeekly DOJ cracks down on use of cell‐duping Stingrays – CNN Department of Justice Policy Guidance – DOJ Law Enforcement Use of Cell-Site Simulation Technologies – House oversight committee How the NSA can 'turn on' your phone remotely – CNN