CVE-2024-39271 in PROSet
Summary
by MITRE • 02/13/2025
Improper restriction of communication channel to intended endpoints in some Intel(R) PROSet/Wireless WiFi and Killerâ„¢ WiFi software before version 23.80 may allow an unauthenticated user to potentially enable information disclosure via adjacent access.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/13/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-39271 represents a significant security flaw in Intel PROSet/Wireless WiFi and Killer WiFi software versions prior to 23.80. This issue falls under the category of improper restriction of communication channels, which is classified as CWE-284 in the Common Weakness Enumeration catalog. The vulnerability specifically affects the communication protocols used by these wireless networking utilities, creating potential pathways for unauthorized access to sensitive information.
The technical implementation of this flaw involves inadequate validation of communication endpoints within the wireless driver and management software stack. When users install affected versions of the Intel PROSet/Wireless WiFi or Killer WiFi software, the system fails to properly restrict network communication to only authorized endpoints. This weakness allows an attacker with adjacent network access to potentially intercept or manipulate communications between the wireless adapter and network infrastructure. The vulnerability does not require authentication credentials to exploit, making it particularly concerning for environments where physical proximity to network devices is possible.
From an operational standpoint, this vulnerability creates substantial risk for organizations relying on Intel wireless networking solutions. An unauthenticated attacker positioned within the physical vicinity of affected systems could potentially access sensitive wireless configuration data, network credentials, or other confidential information transmitted through the wireless channel. The impact extends beyond simple information disclosure, as the compromised communication channels could potentially enable further attacks such as man-in-the-middle operations or network reconnaissance activities. This vulnerability particularly affects enterprise environments where wireless networks are extensively deployed and where physical security controls may be insufficient.
The exploitation of CVE-2024-39271 aligns with several tactics outlined in the MITRE ATT&CK framework, particularly those related to credential access and network discovery. Attackers could leverage this vulnerability to establish persistent access to wireless networks or to gather intelligence about network topology and security configurations. The adjacent access requirement means that physical proximity to the target system is necessary for exploitation, but this limitation does not significantly reduce the overall risk, as many environments provide sufficient physical access opportunities for determined attackers. Organizations should consider this vulnerability in their broader security posture assessments and evaluate the potential impact on their wireless network infrastructure.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2024-39271 primarily involve updating to Intel PROSet/Wireless WiFi or Killer WiFi software versions 23.80 and later, which contain the necessary patches to address the communication channel restriction flaw. System administrators should prioritize rolling out these updates across all affected endpoints, particularly in enterprise environments where wireless network access is prevalent. Additional protective measures include implementing robust physical security controls to limit adjacent access to wireless infrastructure, deploying network monitoring tools to detect anomalous wireless communication patterns, and conducting regular security assessments of wireless network configurations. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of maintaining current software versions and highlights the need for continuous security monitoring of network infrastructure components.