Wi-Fi Networks

What the technique is

Adversaries may gain initial access to target systems by connecting to wireless networks. They may accomplish this by exploiting open Wi-Fi networks used by target devices or by accessing secured Wi-Fi networks — requiring Valid Accounts — belonging to a target organization. Establishing a connection to a Wi-Fi access point requires a certain level of proximity to both discover and maintain a stable network connection. Adversaries may establish a wireless connection through various methods, such as by physically positioning themselves near a Wi-Fi network to conduct close access operations. To bypass the need for physical proximity, adversaries may attempt to remotely compromise nearby third-party systems that have both wired and wireless network connections available (i.e., dual-homed systems). These third-party compromised devices can then serve as a bridge to connect to a target’s Wi-Fi network. Once an initial wireless connection is achieved, adversaries may leverage this access for follow-on activities in the victim network or further targeting of specific devices on the network. Adversaries may perform Network Sniffing or Adversary-in-the-Middle activities for Credential Access or Discovery.

What MITRE says you would watch

• AN1476

  Detects anomalous wireless connections such as unexpected SSID associations, failed or repeated authentication attempts, and connections outside of known geofenced networks. Defenders should monitor wireless connection logs and event codes for network discovery, authentication, and association events.

• AN1477

  Detects unauthorized wireless associations by monitoring wpa_supplicant logs, NetworkManager events, and system calls related to interface state changes. Anomalies include repeated association failures, new SSIDs outside baselined values, and rogue AP connections.

• AN1478

  Detects unauthorized Wi-Fi associations and SSID scanning activity using unified logs and airport command telemetry. Anomalies include rapid SSID switching, connections to unapproved SSIDs, or repeated authentication failures.