International communications enabler BICS has been picked by Fastweb, a major Italian operator, to further enhance IPX security to protect the international mobile traffic (voice, data, SMS) of its customer base.
IPX security – also known as Signalling Network Security – refers to a list of vulnerabilities present in telecom protocols used for roaming interworking, including the risk of interception of communication such as SMS or voice calls, subscriber-tracking, and other telecoms fraud abusing the signalling relay to mobile operators’ networks.
In the arrangement, Fastweb will benefit from intelligent intrusion detection through BICS’ landmark IPX security solution which was launched in 2020. Combining carrier-grade screening protection with real-time intelligence, the solution enables operators to secure network infrastructure against the growing threat of signalling attacks, safeguarding subscribers and revenues.
BICS will use its extensive visibility of international network traffic to provide mobile operators with the expertise and tools to protect their business.
BICS’ solution combines its Telecom Intrusion Detection System with network enforcement and 24/7 support, enabling Fastweb to focus on its core business, whilst leveraging BICS’ experience and expertise to:
• Detect potential attacks with advanced machine learning software to qualify the risk and severity of the threats they pose.
• Link each security event to the BICS threat intelligence database, enabling proactive protection.
• Guarantee immediate 24/7 incident response through the BICS Fraud Operations Centre.
• Personalise the solution to Fastweb’s own specific traffic, from assessment through to ongoing monitoring and prevention.
Commenting on the partnership, Andrea Lasagna, Chief Technology Officer of Fastweb said, “Fastweb has always prioritized the protection of its customer base from malicious attacks. Thanks to the perfect combination of network and security expertise, BICS’ IPX security solution provides us a further robust tool to secure vulnerabilities across our entire network and safeguard mobile subscribers from potential threats.”
Meanwhile, Katia Gonzalez, Head of Security & Fraud Prevention, BICS said, “Our bespoke approach enabled us to provide Fastweb with a solution that was tailored to its specific needs, further helping to advance its cyber security position. With the solution, Fastweb benefits from our continuous investments in security and fraud prevention that help operators effectively fight and manage evolving threats. Moreover, through our international wholesale carrier business, we are able to leverage our neutrality to foster global knowledge sharing among operators, an important element in jointly securing the telecommunications ecosystem.”
BICS’ relationship with Fastweb already incorporates the outsourcing of end-to-end connectivity provision, from capacity, to BICS’ one-stop-shop for instant roaming across 3G and 4G networks, and outbound voice roaming traffic. As part of the agreement, BICS will provide Fastweb with 24/7 business support across the full range of services provided.
With 2.7 million wireline customers and 1.9 million mobile customers, Fastweb is a major Italian telecommunications operator.
