5G Adoption to Reach One-Third of Mobile Subscriptions by 2025: Security Risks Loom

The global rollout of 5G networks is progressing faster than initial projections, with Ericsson's latest Mobility Report forecasting that 5G will account for approximately 33% of all mobile subscriptions worldwide by 2025. This accelerated adoption brings both unprecedented connectivity opportunities and significant cybersecurity challenges that demand immediate attention from security professionals.

Network Security Implications
5G's architecture fundamentally differs from previous generations, introducing new security considerations. The technology's reliance on network slicing—creating multiple virtual networks on shared physical infrastructure—presents novel attack vectors. Each slice requires individual security policies and isolation mechanisms, dramatically increasing configuration complexity and potential misconfiguration risks.

The expanded Internet of Things (IoT) ecosystem enabled by 5G's low latency and high device density capabilities creates additional security headaches. Many IoT manufacturers continue to prioritize functionality over security, leaving countless devices vulnerable to compromise. Security teams must account for this expanded attack surface in their threat models.

Supply chain security emerges as another critical concern. The global nature of 5G infrastructure components introduces vulnerabilities at multiple levels, from hardware manufacturing to software development. Nation-state actors have already demonstrated interest in exploiting these supply chain weaknesses for espionage purposes.

Critical Infrastructure Risks
Industrial applications adopting 5G for operational technology (OT) networks face particular risks. The convergence of IT and OT systems through 5G creates potential pathways for attacks to jump between traditionally separated networks. Recent simulations show that a compromised 5G-connected sensor could potentially provide access to entire industrial control systems.

Security professionals should focus on:

• Implementing zero-trust architectures for 5G networks
• Developing specialized monitoring for network slicing environments
• Establishing rigorous IoT device certification programs
• Enhancing supply chain verification processes
• Creating incident response plans specific to 5G-enabled systems

The rapid 5G deployment timeline leaves little room for error. Organizations must integrate security considerations from the initial design phase rather than treating them as afterthoughts. As 5G becomes the backbone of critical communications, its security will directly impact national and economic security worldwide.