5G networks are transforming the way we live and operate, ushering in a new era of ultra-fast connectivity, low latency, and seamless integration of emerging technologies such as autonomous vehicles, smart cities, and the Internet of Things (IoT). However, as 5G unlocks unprecedented possibilities, it also introduces complex security challenges. The decentralized architecture, reliance on distributed cloud infrastructures, and the exponential growth in connected devices expand the attack surface, making 5G networks an attractive target for cyberattacks. In this interview, we delve into the rapidly evolving landscape of 5G security, examining the risks and vulnerabilities inherent to this new technology and the innovative strategies being employed to mitigate them. We are joined by Moiz Baig, a recognized leader in 5G security and telecommunications, who will share his expert insights on how organizations can secure the future of connectivity in an increasingly interconnected world.
Biography: Moiz Baig
Moiz Baig is a highly accomplished telecommunications executive with over two decades of expertise spanning telecommunications services, software sales, and business development. Renowned for his deep passion for cybersecurity and cutting-edge technologies, Moiz has played a pivotal role in driving digital transformation across service providers and enterprises, particularly during the rise of Industry 4.0. His extensive experience spans global markets, including North America, the Middle East, and Africa, where he has successfully overseen more than $500 million in product and service engagements.
As the Cybersecurity Advisory and Business Development Lead at Nokia, Moiz spearheads strategic partnerships with Tier-1 Communication Service Providers (CSPs) and mission critical enterprise vertical industries to guide 5G security transformation across radio access, transport, and core networks. His leadership has been instrumental in shaping industrial IoT, Public Safety, and automation use cases, earning him a trusted reputation among clients in critical sectors such as energy, transportation, and public safety. A recognized thought leader, Moiz has co-authored influential whitepapers on 5G security, further cementing his expertise in the field.
Prior to his current role, Moiz held key leadership positions, including Telco Analytics Engagement Lead at Nokia and Director of Business Development for IoT platforms at Consulthingz, a start-up dedicated to M2M and IoT solutions. His strategic vision and ability to unlock new market opportunities have enabled companies to optimize operations and drive significant financial growth.
A dynamic and versatile leader, Moiz excels in managing cross-functional teams and navigating the complexities of high-stakes projects. His proven success in the telecommunications and cybersecurity sectors positions him as a sought-after expert for organizations seeking to harness the latest innovations and secure their digital transformation.
Key Expertise:
- 5G Security Transformation
- Telecommunications & Industry 4.0 Advisory
- Cybersecurity in Telecom and Mission Critical Enterprise Verticals
- Strategic Business Development
- Project Leadership & Cross-functional Team Management
With a strong commitment to innovation, Moiz continues to shape the future of telecommunications and cybersecurity, delivering cutting-edge solutions for businesses worldwide.

The Interview
Section 1: Introduction and Background
- Please introduce yourself and share a bit about your background in the field of cybersecurity and telecommunications.
- I am Moiz Baig, a telecommunications and cybersecurity professional with over 20 years of experience across global markets, including North America, the Middle East, and Africa. My career began in transmission networks, working with early ATM/IP systems, before transitioning into radio networks, where I was involved in some of the initial 3G rollouts in Asia , Europe and the USA. I later played a key role in 4G deployments across the MEA region. As the industry evolved, I shifted my focus to IoT, and more recently, to cybersecurity.
- Currently, as Cybersecurity Advisory and Business Development Lead at Nokia, I help Communication Service Providers (CSPs) transform their 5G security architectures, addressing the unique security challenges posed by next-generation networks. My diverse background, spanning early telecom infrastructure, IoT, and cybersecurity, has provided me with a comprehensive understanding of the complexities faced in securing today’s 5G networks.
- What sparked your interest in 5G networks, particularly from a security perspective?
- 5G is not just a technological evolution; it represents a fundamental shift in how we will interact with the world. The security of 5G is critical because it supports everything from industrial IoT to autonomous vehicles, and any vulnerabilities could have catastrophic consequences. As a cybersecurity professional, my interest in 5G security was sparked by the complexity and scale of threats posed by this interconnected network. The increased attack surface, reliance on edge computing, and integration of various third-party technologies make securing 5G an intricate but critical challenge.
- Can you give us an overview of how 5G differs from previous generations in terms of both functionality and security challenges?
- 5G significantly differs from 4G and previous generations due to its decentralized architecture, increased use of software-defined networking (SDN), and network slicing. These features provide enhanced performance and flexibility but also introduce new vulnerabilities. Unlike previous generations, 5G has a broader scope in terms of connected devices, which expands the attack surface exponentially. Moreover, the reliance on third-party vendors and the global supply chain creates additional security risks, compounded by geopolitical tensions and potential state-sponsored threats.
Section 2: Understanding the Security Challenges in 5G Networks
- What are the primary security challenges that organizations and telecom operators face with the rollout of 5G?
- The primary challenge is the expanded attack surface created by the massive increase in connected devices and IoT integrations. This is complicated further by the decentralized nature of 5G, which relies heavily on distributed cloud infrastructure and edge computing. Operators must also contend with vulnerabilities introduced through third-party software and hardware, as well as the growing sophistication of cyberattacks from both criminal groups and nation-state actors. Additionally, the complexity of securing network slices—each with distinct security needs—presents another significant challenge.
- How does the expanded attack surface in 5G networks—due to the proliferation of connected devices and IoT—change the threat landscape?
- The sheer number of connected devices in a 5G ecosystem exponentially increases the risk of attacks. Every device connected to a network represents a potential point of entry for bad actors. Moreover, many IoT devices lack adequate security controls, which can be exploited to launch distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks or serve as entry points for more sophisticated intrusions into the network. This increases the need for proactive measures like network segmentation, zero-trust architecture, and real-time threat monitoring.
- Given the decentralized and distributed nature of 5G architecture, what are some unique vulnerabilities that arise from these design changes?
- The shift to decentralized architectures, edge computing, and virtualized environments opens up new attack vectors. For instance, edge nodes are often less secure than core networks, creating opportunities for attackers to exploit weak links in the network. Additionally, the reliance on open APIs and third-party integrations introduces risks from supply chain compromises, which could allow malicious actors to embed backdoors or malicious code into network components. This makes security-by-design a crucial requirement for 5G infrastructure.
- What role do supply chain risks, and the use of third-party technologies play in the security of 5G networks?
- Supply chain security is one of the most pressing concerns in 5G. Many critical components of 5G networks are sourced from multiple vendors around the world, often from regions with varying levels of cybersecurity regulation. This fragmentation can lead to vulnerabilities in the supply chain, where malicious actors might introduce compromised hardware or software. Additionally, the geopolitical landscape, particularly tensions between major powers, adds a layer of complexity as certain equipment may be subject to bans or restrictions, forcing operators to rethink their supply chain strategies.
- How do nation-state actors and advanced persistent threats (APTs) factor into the security concerns for 5G networks?
- Nation-state actors pose one of the gravest threats to 5G networks due to their resources, motivation, and technical sophistication. APTs often target critical infrastructure to steal sensitive data or disrupt operations, and 5G networks, which are set to underpin everything from smart grids to military communications, are a prime target. Additionally, state-sponsored actors may engage in supply chain attacks, compromising network components to carry out espionage or long-term cyber campaigns.
Section 3: Solutions and Best Practices for Securing 5G Networks
- What are some of the most promising security solutions being developed to address the challenges posed by 5G?
- One of the most promising solutions is the adoption of AI and machine learning to monitor and secure networks in real time. These technologies can detect anomalies faster and more efficiently than traditional methods. Additionally, network slicing is proving to be a game-changer in 5G security, allowing operators to isolate different types of traffic and apply customized security policies to each slice. Virtualization and cloud-native security practices are also gaining traction as they allow for more flexible, scalable, and responsive security mechanisms.
- How are network slicing and virtualization affecting the security strategy for telecom operators?
- Network slicing allows operators to create isolated, virtualized segments within a 5G network, each with its own security requirements. This isolation provides a higher level of security because it prevents attacks on one slice from spreading to others. However, it also requires that each slice be individually secured, which can be complex. Virtualization, while offering flexibility, also increases the attack surface, especially in shared environments, which means operators must adopt stringent access control and monitoring protocols.
- What role does encryption play in securing 5G communications, and are there new encryption technologies being developed specifically for 5G?
- Encryption is fundamental to securing 5G communications, especially with the volume and sensitivity of data transmitted across the network. While existing encryption standards like AES are robust, there is ongoing development of new encryption methods optimized for the low-latency, high-throughput demands of 5G. Quantum-resistant encryption is also being explored as a future-proofing measure against the potential rise of quantum computing, which could compromise current encryption techniques.
- How can telecom operators integrate AI and machine learning into their security operations to detect and mitigate threats in real-time?
- AI and machine learning are essential for handling the scale and complexity of threats in 5G networks. By analyzing vast amounts of data in real time, these technologies can detect patterns that suggest malicious activity, enabling quicker responses to potential attacks. Machine learning models can be trained to identify anomalies and adapt to new threats, providing a dynamic defense mechanism that evolves as the threat landscape changes.
- What security protocols and frameworks (e.g., 3GPP, NIST) should be adopted by organizations to ensure comprehensive protection across 5G networks?
- To ensure comprehensive protection across 5G networks, organizations must adopt a holistic approach by integrating established security protocols and frameworks like 3GPP, NIST, and Zero Trust Architecture, along with standards such as ETSI NFV and ISO/IEC 27001. The convergence of IT and OT environments in 5G often leads to security silos, where each domain is managed separately, increasing vulnerabilities. A unified strategy that incorporates encryption, network segmentation, real-time threat detection, and supply chain security can bridge these silos, ensuring that both IT and OT infrastructures are equally protected, resilient, and able to adapt to the evolving threat landscape. Addressing these domains holistically is essential for creating secure, end-to-end 5G ecosystems.

Section 4: The Future of 5G Security
- What do you foresee as the next big security challenges for 5G networks as adoption grows and more industries rely on them?
- As 5G adoption grows, industries like healthcare, manufacturing, and critical infrastructure will rely on it for mission-critical operations. This increases the stakes for potential security breaches, as an attack on a 5G network could have far-reaching consequences, including loss of life in extreme cases. The convergence of IT and OT environments will create additional challenges, as securing these hybrid environments will require new strategies. Furthermore, the rise of quantum computing poses a future threat that could render current encryption obsolete.
- With the advent of 6G already being discussed, how do you think the lessons from 5G security will influence future network generations?
- The lessons from 5G, particularly in the areas of supply chain security, AI integration, and zero-trust architectures, will be critical in shaping the development of 6G. The geopolitical landscape and the need for cross-border collaboration on cybersecurity standards will also play a major role. As we move towards 6G, which will likely involve even more advanced use cases like holographic communications and deep space connectivity, the foundational security principles established in 5G will need to be further strengthened and adapted.
- How can governments, telecom operators, and businesses collaborate to create a secure 5G ecosystem globally?
- Collaboration is key to securing 5G globally. Governments need to set clear regulatory standards and frameworks, while telecom operators must ensure they are compliant and continuously innovate their security practices. Businesses, particularly those in critical infrastructure, need to be proactive in implementing strong security measures. A unified approach that involves information sharing, cross-border cooperation, and a commitment to security-by-design is essential for creating a resilient 5G ecosystem.
Closing Note:
Thank you for sharing your valuable insights into the critical topic of 5G network security. As 5G continues to drive innovation across industries, understanding and addressing its security challenges will be key to ensuring a safe and resilient digital future.
We look forward to seeing how the industry continues to evolve and what role security professionals like yourself will play in shaping the next generation of secure connectivity.