the distilled objectives for SMS forwarding in your setup:

Enhance Privacy: Enable the receipt of SMS messages without using your primary mobile number, protecting your main number from being shared and stored by others who might accept less secure data processing terms.

Increase Accessibility: Ensure that you can receive SMS messages for various services (e.g., hotel check-in codes, two-factor authentication) without needing to carry your primary smartphone, which has heightened privacy settings and restrictions.

Remote Manageability: Move away from a system that relies on a rooted smartphone for SMS forwarding, which cannot be remotely troubleshooted, to a more robust and manageable system using an LTE router.

Reliability: Establish a more reliable SMS forwarding mechanism that can operate independently of your primary devices, ensuring consistent availability of SMS-based services.

Integration with Existing Infrastructure: Leverage your familiarity and preference for OpenWRT-enabled devices to ensure that the new SMS forwarding solution integrates seamlessly with your existing network infrastructure.

These objectives focus on improving the security, accessibility, and efficiency of handling SMS communications, aligning with broader goals of maintaining privacy and technical control.

LTE Router: For reliable SMS forwarding, especially for receiving SMS without carrying your primary smartphone. An LTE router can use a multi-SIM setup to clone your public mobile number, which is essential for receiving SMS from services that require it, such as hotel check-ins or 2FA.

Multi SIM Card: A secondary SIM card that clones your public mobile number, which will be inserted into the LTE router to receive SMS messages.

Rooted Smartphone: Currently used for SMS forwarding, though you plan to replace this setup with an LTE router. The rooted smartphone allows for greater control over the device, bypassing standard configurations that might compromise privacy.

Network Cables and Accessories: Including Ethernet cables for connecting devices where necessary and power adapters for the routers.

The privacy trap of receiving SMS messages, including those for MFA, stems from the necessity of keeping mobile devices constantly connected to cellular networks, thus exposing users to continuous location tracking and potential privacy intrusions.

SMS verification codes

Online Banking: (initial) Mobile TAN travel: Hotel check-in-codes Online Payment: PayPal security codes on new devices tbd: Discord security code “identity”: Goole 2FA a) auth app b) SMS (or call, trusted device)

1st steps whenever possible: on android device account -> security -> Authenticator app -> set up, then KeePassDX -> TOTP -> setup

MultiSIM

  • WhatsApp: https://faq.whatsapp.com/1068436057886812/ and https://faq.whatsapp.com/1197347060992858/ old number can be used on new sim phone
  • Telegram: true
  • Signal: when using a backup to transfer then old number can be entered on new device, afterwards

WhatsApp: direct download Telegram: direct download

Here’s the updated outline for your technical article that now includes the additional aspect of privacy concerns associated with SMS-based two-factor authentication (2FA). This will ensure the article is comprehensive and covers all relevant topics.

Introduction

  • Brief overview of multi-factor authentication: importance and common challenges.
  • Introduction to using an industrial router with SMS forwarding as a solution.

Understanding Multi-Factor Authentication

  • Definition and types of MFA (something you know, something you have, something you are).
  • Common issues with MFA:
    • Device dependency and loss.
    • Connectivity issues.
    • Inconvenience and user friction.

Privacy Concerns with SMS-Based 2FA

  • The Privacy Implications of Mobile-Based Verification:
    • Overview of privacy concerns: the role of smartphones in MFA and their connection to cellular networks.
    • Risk factors: vulnerabilities associated with SMS verification, including interception and location tracking.
    • User sentiment: public concerns about privacy and continuous tracking.
  • Mitigating Privacy Risks in 2FA:
    • Alternatives to SMS-Based 2FA: app-based tokens and hardware security tokens.
    • Use of non-mobile devices: leveraging home-based solutions like VoIP.
    • Advanced security practices: VPN usage, secure networks, and regulatory influences on privacy.
  • Industry Trends and Future Outlook:
    • Shifts in authentication technology towards more secure and privacy-conscious methods.
    • The impact of regulatory changes on 2FA practices.

The Role of Industrial Routers in MFA

  • Definition of an industrial router.
  • Key features relevant to MFA: reliability, connectivity options, security features.
  • Introduction to SMS forwarding capabilities.

How SMS Forwarding Works with Industrial Routers

  • Explanation of SMS forwarding: what it is and how it functions.
  • Technical setup: integrating MFA systems with an industrial router.
  • Benefits of using an industrial router for SMS forwarding in MFA setups.

Comparative Analysis: Router vs. Smartphone vs. Raspberry Pi with GSM Modem

  • Overview of Each Device:
    • Industrial Router: Built for reliability and security, with advanced features for large-scale management.
    • Dedicated Smartphone: Consumer-grade device, familiar interface, but with limitations in durability and scalability.
    • Raspberry Pi with GSM Modem: Highly customizable and cost-effective, but requires technical skill and may lack robust industrial-grade security.
  • Connectivity and Reliability:
    • Compare the connectivity options and the reliability of each solution in various environments.
  • Security and Compliance:
    • Discuss the built-in security features of each option and their implications for regulatory compliance.
  • Cost and Maintenance:
    • Initial and ongoing costs, including potential savings and expenditures related to setup, maintenance, and upgrades.
  • Ease of Integration and Scalability:
    • Evaluate how easily each device can be integrated into existing systems and scaled for future needs.
  • User Experience and Accessibility:
    • Assess the ease of use and accessibility of managing MFA via each device option.

Case Studies

  • Real-world scenarios where industrial routers with SMS forwarding mitigated MFA challenges.
  • Comparative analysis with traditional MFA methods.

Advantages of Industrial Router SMS Forwarding for MFA

  • Reliability and uptime: continuous operation under various conditions.
  • Enhanced security: leveraging router’s built-in security features.
  • Scalability and management: handling multiple devices and users seamlessly.

Potential Challenges and Considerations

  • Initial setup complexity and cost implications.
  • Maintenance and technical support needs.
  • Compatibility with existing MFA and IT infrastructure.

Best Practices and Recommendations

  • Tips for choosing the right industrial router.
  • Best practices for integrating and configuring SMS forwarding.
  • Ongoing management and security practices.

Conclusion

  • Recap of the main points: why industrial routers with SMS forwarding are effective for mitigating MFA woes.
  • Future outlook: evolving technologies and potential advancements in MFA solutions.

References

  • List of technical resources, product manuals, and expert interviews used as references.

This revised outline now comprehensively addresses both the technical and privacy aspects of using SMS-based 2FA, providing a fuller picture for readers interested in understanding and mitigating the associated challenges.

Multi-factor authentication (MFA) is crucial for enhancing security, but it can definitely come with its set of frustrations. Some common woes include:

Inconvenience: Having to always have access to a second device or token can be a hassle, especially if you’re in a rush or the device isn’t readily available.

Device Dependency: If your authentication method relies on a specific device like a smartphone, losing that device, battery issues, or connectivity problems can lock you out of your accounts.

Setup Complexity: Setting up MFA can sometimes be confusing, particularly for those who aren’t tech-savvy. This can lead to errors that make the process even more frustrating.

False Denials: Sometimes, MFA systems can mistakenly deny access to the legitimate user, particularly if there are issues with time synchronization between devices or inaccurate input of authentication codes.

Limited Accessibility: In some regions or situations, receiving SMS or using authentication apps might not be feasible, limiting the practicality of MFA for some users.

Despite these challenges, the security benefits of MFA are significant, making it a worthwhile tradeoff for many. To mitigate some of these issues, organizations and users can explore alternative authentication methods, like biometrics or physical keys, which might offer a smoother experience.

To address the common issues with multi-factor authentication, particularly when dealing with connectivity and device dependency, leveraging an industrial 4G LTE router combined with a multi-SIM setup and SMS forwarding can be highly effective. Here’s a breakdown of how each component can help mitigate MFA challenges:

Industrial 4G LTE Router:

Reliable Connectivity: These routers provide a stable and robust internet connection, which is crucial for receiving time-sensitive MFA prompts via the internet, such as push notifications or through authentication apps. Fallback Internet: In areas where primary internet connections are unreliable, these routers can serve as a reliable backup, ensuring that MFA mechanisms that require internet access are always available. Multi SIM with Second SIM Card from Another GSM Carrier:

Redundancy: Having SIM cards from different carriers ensures connectivity even if one carrier’s network goes down. This is particularly useful in critical applications where being locked out of an account due to carrier issues is unacceptable. Wider Coverage: Different carriers may have better coverage in different areas. Using multiple carriers can expand the geographical range in which a user can receive SMS or mobile data signals without interruption. SMS Forwarding:

Accessibility: If the primary device for receiving SMS is unavailable or out of service, SMS forwarding allows these messages to be redirected to another device. This can be crucial if the primary device is lost, stolen, or simply out of battery. Convenience: Users can receive MFA SMS messages on any device they choose, which can be particularly useful if they have multiple devices or if their primary device isn’t always on hand. Implementation Tips:

Security: Ensure that the SMS forwarding and the multi-SIM setup are secure. Use encryption where possible and restrict access to these systems to prevent unauthorized interception of MFA codes. Carrier Choice: Choose carriers based on reliability and coverage in the regions most often frequented by the users. Consider including at least one carrier known for extensive rural or remote area coverage. Router Configuration: Set up the router with security in mind, updating its firmware regularly and using strong, unique passwords. Configuring failover settings will help in switching seamlessly between SIMs/cards based on signal strength and network availability. By integrating these technologies, you can substantially reduce the risk of MFA-related lockouts while maintaining the security benefits that MFA provides.

Thanks for sharing detailed information on the remote administration capabilities of the Teltonika RUT260, particularly concerning its Mobile Utilities. This gives a clearer view of the functionalities provided for SMS and Call related device control. Here’s how these features further enhance the comparison table, especially under the pros for using an industrial 4G router like the RUT260:

Feature Industrial 4G Router Dedicated Android Smartphone Raspberry Pi with External GSM Modem Stick
Pros      
Remote Administration Advanced SMS-based remote management for device control, including configurations and updates. Capable of managing SMS messages, setting profiles, and executing custom scripts. Limited unless equipped with third-party remote management software. Possible with appropriate software setup, can be managed remotely.
Power Consumption Designed for low power consumption, suitable for energy-efficient operations in industrial settings. Higher power consumption, but manageable if connected to a permanent power supply. Low power consumption, efficient for continuous operation.
Cost Higher initial cost but optimized for long-term industrial use with less frequent need for replacement. Lower initial cost, more accessible and affordable for most users. Cost-effective, components are inexpensive compared to industrial solutions.
Reliability Built to withstand harsh environments, offers consistent performance under various conditions. Includes robust SMS and Call utility management for versatile remote operations. Less durable and may not perform as consistently in varying environmental conditions. Less robust than industrial routers, but reliable for controlled environments.
Connectivity Multiple connectivity options including dual SIM, Ethernet, and Wi-Fi capabilities. Extensive SMS rule management enhances flexibility in device operations. Primarily reliant on Wi-Fi and cellular data, limited by the presence of a SIM slot. Depends on the modem; generally supports a single SIM but can be expanded with USB hubs.
Security Advanced security protocols designed for industrial applications, more robust against cyber threats. Requires additional software for enhanced security; potentially more vulnerable. Requires additional configuration for security but can be made very secure.
User Interface and Usability May require technical knowledge for initial setup and configuration. User-friendly interface, familiar to most users, easy to set up and manage. Flexible and customizable, but requires technical skill for setup and use.
Scalability Easily integrated into larger network infrastructures with other industrial devices. Less scalable for large-scale or industrial applications. Moderately scalable, can integrate with various sensors and modules.
Flexibility Highly customizable with extensive SMS rules and remote management options. More rigid in functionality; customization limited to available apps. Highly customizable with a wide range of software and hardware options.
Maintenance and Support Typically comes with professional support and warranty aimed at business users. Consumer support, which might not cater to specialized or industrial needs. Community-based support; requires self-service for troubleshooting.

Summary:

  • Industrial 4G Router (Teltonika RUT260): Highly suited for industrial and remote management scenarios where robustness, security, and extensive remote configuration capabilities via SMS are critical.
  • Dedicated Android Smartphone: Best for non-critical, budget-conscious setups where ease of use is prioritized over extensive customization and environmental resilience.
  • Raspberry Pi with External GSM Modem Stick: Ideal for tech enthusiasts or smaller-scale projects that benefit from customization and cost-efficiency but do not require industrial-grade reliability or support.

This comparison underscores the Teltonika RUT260’s strengths in remote management and reliability, making it a compelling choice for more demanding industrial applications.

RUTOS, built around OpenWRT

To effectively integrate the privacy concerns associated with SMS-based two-factor authentication (2FA) into your technical article, you could expand on how reliance on mobile phones for receiving verification codes not only imposes inconvenience but also exposes users to privacy breaches. Here’s a suggested outline addition and detailed explanation for this aspect:

New Section: Privacy Concerns with SMS-Based 2FA

Subsection: The Privacy Implications of Mobile-Based Verification

  • Overview of Privacy Concerns: Discuss how smartphones, which are essential for receiving SMS-based 2FA codes, are typically connected to cellular networks. This connectivity means they can be tracked via cellular masts, leading to potential privacy breaches.
  • Risk Factors: Explain the vulnerabilities associated with SMS as a verification method, including the potential for interception and the broader issue of location tracking. Emphasize how mobile phones can serve as tracking devices that log users’ locations continuously through cell tower connections and other means.
  • User Sentiment: Cite studies or surveys that reflect user concerns regarding privacy and constant tracking through smartphones. This can highlight the wider implications of privacy breaches beyond just the security of the 2FA process.

Subsection: Mitigating Privacy Risks in 2FA

  • Alternatives to SMS-Based 2FA: Introduce more secure and less intrusive methods of authentication, such as app-based tokens (e.g., Google Authenticator, Authy) that do not rely on SMS and thus reduce exposure to network-based tracking.
  • Use of Non-Mobile Devices: Discuss how devices like hardware security tokens or even systems that can leverage home-based solutions such as VoIP can minimize the need to carry a tracked smartphone.
  • Advanced Security Practices: Recommend practices like using VPNs, avoiding public Wi-Fi for authentication tasks, and other security measures that help safeguard personal information and reduce location tracking risks.
  • Shifts in Authentication Technology: Cover the evolving landscape of 2FA technologies, focusing on the industry’s shift towards more secure and privacy-conscious methods. Mention the development of standards like WebAuthn, which aims to replace traditional 2FA methods with more secure and user-friendly alternatives.
  • Regulatory Influence: Outline potential or existing regulations that protect user privacy and how they impact 2FA practices, encouraging shifts towards more privacy-preserving verification methods.

By expanding your article to include these aspects, you provide a comprehensive view of the privacy concerns related to SMS-based 2FA, informing the audience about the risks and offering practical solutions to mitigate these issues. This approach not only broadens the discussion but also enhances the relevance and depth of your content.

MultiSIM (SMS-Funktion) Code, der auf dem Handy eingegeben werden muss, auf dem SMS und MMS empfangen und gesendet werden sollen: *222# Code für die Statusabfrage “Aktiv oder Inaktiv”: *221#

Kann ich mit der MultiSIM SMS empfangen? SMS (MMS) kannst du nur von einer SIM-Karte versenden und empfangen. Mit welcher kannst du dir frei aussuchen.

Wenn du wissen möchtest auf welcher SIM-Karte der SMS-Empfang/Dienst zur Zeit aktiviert ist, gib bitte den Code *221# über deine Telefontastatur ein und drücke anschließend die Anruftaste.

Bei dem Gerät/der SIM-Karte, welche für den SMS-Empfang und Versand aktiviert werden soll, gib den Code *222# über deine Telefontastatur ein und drücke anschließend die Anruftaste.