Wi-Fi Networks
- ID
- T1669
- Tactics
- TA0001 Initial Access
- Platforms
- Linux, Network Devices, Windows, macOS
- Data sources
- Network Connection Creation, User Account Authentication, Network Traffic Flow, Firewall Rule Modification, Network Traffic Content
- Source
- attack.mitre.org
- MITRE last modified
- 16 Apr 2025
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.[1][2] 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.[2]
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.
Detection
- DET0536 Detection Strategy for Wi-Fi Networks
Data components: Network Connection Creation, User Account Authentication, Network Traffic Flow, Firewall Rule Modification, Network Traffic Content
Mitigations (3)
- M1030 Network Segmentation
Network segmentation can be used to isolate infrastructure components that do not require broad network access. Separate networking environments for Wi-Fi and Ethernet-wired networks, particularly where Ethernet-based networks allow for access to sensitive resources.
- M1032 Multi-factor Authentication
Harden access requirements for Wi-Fi networks through using two or more pieces of evidence to authenticate, such as a username and password in addition to a token from a physical smart card or token generator.
- M1041 Encrypt Sensitive Information
Ensure that all wired and/or wireless traffic is encrypted appropriately. Use best practices for authentication protocols, such as Kerberos, and ensure that web traffic that may contain credentials is protected by SSL/TLS.