CVE-2022-26047

What it actually does

Improper input validation in Intel PROSet/Wireless WiFi, vPro CSME WiFi, and Killer WiFi products allows an unauthenticated local attacker to trigger a denial of service condition affecting the wireless stack.

Why it matters to the business

Wireless connectivity on affected Intel-based systems can be disrupted, leading to loss of network access, reduced productivity, and potential operational downtime for devices relying on these WiFi components.

How an attack unfolds

An attacker with local system access crafts specially malformed input and supplies it to the vulnerable WiFi driver or firmware interface, bypassing validation checks and causing the wireless component to crash or become unresponsive.

How to fix it

Apply the latest vendor-supplied updates for Intel PROSet/Wireless WiFi, Killer WiFi software, CSME firmware, and related WiFi drivers; monitor Intel security advisories for patches addressing improper input validation in these components.

How to confirm the fix worked

Inventory installed Intel WiFi drivers, PROSet, Killer software, and CSME firmware versions against current vendor releases; verify that affected packages have been replaced with patched builds and test wireless functionality post-update.

Typical attack path

1. Obtain local access on a target system running affected Intel WiFi software or firmware
2. Identify the presence of vulnerable PROSet, Killer, or CSME WiFi components
3. Craft and deliver malformed input via local interfaces to the wireless driver
4. Trigger the validation failure to induce denial of service on the WiFi stack

How to detect it

Review system logs for WiFi driver crashes, unexpected restarts of wireless services, or error entries related to input handling in PROSet, Killer, or CSME components; correlate with local process activity around the time of connectivity loss.

What your security team should do

• Prioritize patching or replacing affected Intel WiFi software and firmware across the environment due to the age of the disclosure
• Disable unnecessary local wireless interfaces where feasible to reduce attack surface
• Implement application allow-listing and local access controls to limit unauthenticated or low-privileged interactions with WiFi drivers
• Monitor vendor release notes for any future fixes given the current absence of listed fixed versions