SSID Confusion Vulnerability Affects Home Networks

CVE-2023-52424

What is CVE-2023-52424?

CVE-2023-52424 is a security vulnerability associated with the IEEE 802.11 wireless networking standard. This vulnerability enables attackers to deceive users into connecting to unauthorized or untrusted networks, specifically affecting home networks protected by various Wi-Fi security protocols, including Home WEP and Home WPA3 SAE-loop. The implications of this vulnerability are severe, as an adversary could gain access to sensitive data or perform malicious actions on compromised devices, thereby threatening the overall security of affected networks.

Technical Details

The SSID Confusion vulnerability arises from the way certain Wi-Fi security mechanisms handle the Service Set Identifier (SSID) during the connection process. In particular, the flaw occurs because the SSID is not always incorporated in the derivation of the pairwise master key or session keys. Additionally, during the 4-way handshake that establishes secure communication between a client and access point, there is no protected exchange of the SSID, allowing for potential spoofing of networks. This lack of proper validation can lead an unsuspecting device to connect to a malicious network that mimics a legitimate one, exposing the user to a range of cyber threats.

Impact of the Vulnerability

1. Unauthorized Access: Attackers can exploit this vulnerability to trick users into connecting to fake networks, granting them unauthorized access to sensitive information and network resources.

2. Data Interception: Once connected to a rogue network, users' data transmissions can be intercepted and manipulated, potentially leading to data breaches and theft of personal or confidential information.

3. Malware Deployment: Compromised networks can serve as platforms for deploying malware on connected devices, escalating the risk of larger network-wide attacks and further exploitation of other systems within the home network.

News Articles

GL.iNet

CVE-2023-52424

Possible vulnerability: SSID Confusion Attack (CVE-2023-52424) - Technical Support for Routers / VPN, DNS, Leaks - GL.iNet

Article: Video: Can anyone confirm Gl.iNet is affected and, if appliable, if there is a mitigation option for affected setups?

Purple Shield Security

CVE-2023-52424

WiFi Vulnerability Enables Eavesdropping Attacks Through Downgrade Strategy - Purple Shield Security

Learn about the new SSID Confusion vulnerability in the IEEE 802.11 WiFi standard. Cybersecurity experts reveal how this flaw allows attackers to intercept network traffic.

Netizen Corporation

CVE-2023-52424

SSID Confusion Attack: Implications, Exploitation, and Solutions for CVE-2023-52424

A new Wi-Fi vulnerability, dubbed CVE-2023-52424 or the SSID Confusion Attack, allows attackers to deceive devices into connecting to fraudulent networks. Exploiting a loophole in the Wi-Fi standard, it poses risks to data security by bypassing security protocols, disabling VPN protections, and allo...

More News...

References