AT&T and Ericsson have introduced a joint security blueprint aimed at strengthening 5G and future 6G networks, focusing on risks linked to AI and open architectures while urging deeper industry collaboration.
In a co-authored paper, the companies outlined challenges in securing AI systems, open interfaces, and the adoption of post-quantum cryptography (PQC). They stressed that evolving network architectures require new security approaches and closer cooperation among service providers, vendors, and security firms.
“We want to get all the players in the network ecosystem – network function vendors, operators as well as the security companies – thinking about what role they need to play in securing an open and intelligent network,” said Rich Baich, AT&T’s chief information security officer.
The paper highlights the need for a collective approach, pointing to existing collaboration on standards, best practices, and intelligence sharing. It also stands out as a rare example of a major telecom operator presenting a joint security position with a single strategic supplier, while noting that broader vendor alignment is essential.
“It takes a village. It can’t just be two entities. This new approach is coming, and everybody needs to think a little bit differently. We have an opportunity to build security in upfront, so that we’re not working in different silos [and] we’re working together as an ecosystem,” Baich added.
Mikko Karikytö, chief product security officer at Ericsson, echoed this view. “You cannot expect that security of mobile networks would be covered by any single player in this kind of stack. It requires us to come together … [and] to recognize our roles.”
The paper brings together AI, open networks, and quantum computing into a unified security perspective for 5G, setting the foundation for 6G practices. “There’s limited writing from companies like Ericsson and AT&T in this space. How AI, the cloud technologies that enable the open networks, and 5G come together, it’s not actually discussed in a holistic manner,” Karikytö said.
While calling for new thinking, the report also reinforces traditional security practices. “Yes, we are living in the era of AI and AI-powered attacks. Never has it been so important to have your basic security hygiene right and in accordance with zero trust architectures [ZTA]. [The paper] amplifies the importance of those security best practices we’ve been talking about for 30 or 40 years,” he added.
The blueprint notes that AI acts as both a threat and a defense tool. As its use grows in network operations, securing AI systems to protect “confidentiality, integrity and availability” becomes critical. It also highlights the need for stronger encryption, identity-based access, and disciplined software practices in open and open-source environments.
Baich added that openness does not necessarily mean insecurity. “That is not necessarily the case. It can be more secure. But we need all these individuals that we’re opening up the environment to to be more secure.”
The paper also points to challenges in implementing PQC, particularly the high compute demands that could impact performance in 5G radio access networks.
Positioned as a roadmap, the paper signals to policymakers, customers, and partners that both companies are prioritizing the security of next-generation networks. The focus has intensified following the recent Salt Typhoon cyberattack, which impacted multiple telecom networks and exposed legacy vulnerabilities.
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