The "GSM" stands for Global System for Mobile Communications, the standard for 2G networks, but in this context, it refers to the mobile repair ecosystem. The "Mafia" part is intentional—implying power, secrecy, and the ability to "fix" things that manufacturers say cannot be fixed.
The debate around GSM Mafia firmware is fierce. It exists in a legal gray area, but the use cases define the morality. gsm mafia firmware