[chk]

From how I interpret the Stingray, it is executing a MITM attack. These types of devices are sometimes refereed to as IMSI-catchers, and sit in between the users phone, and the real network towers. [1]

My concern is what exactly is being contained, and collected. The cell phone companies are already collecting the same data, but I would assume that with the Stingray it makes getting access to that data much faster versus having to request it from the cell phone network companies. The article mentions what they are collecting with the Stringray, "When mobile phones—and other wireless communication devices—connect to the stingray, the device can see and record their unique ID numbers and traffic data, as well as information that points to the device’s location. By moving the stingray around, authorities can triangulate the device’s location with greater precision than they can using data obtained from a fixed tower location." This technology could very well advance, and allow them in the future to collect much more maybe. Gathering location seems to be the biggest reasoning behind using the Stingray.

[1] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/IMSI-catcher

[chiph]

I'm hoping that these devices don't interfere with 911 calls. The Enhanced 911 service uses GPS data from the cellphone (if available) and cell-tower triangulation to locate the caller. If the Stingray device is acting like a tower, and someone calls 911, wouldn't an incorrect (or no) location be reported?

[thisjepisje]

On the other hand, if an accident does occur, the police are already nearby. :P