WiFi Security Vulnerability Disclosed at BlackHat
Hackers and security experts at the Black Hat event in Las Vegas have demonstrated a security flaw in WiFi device drivers that can be exploited to gain control over a computer. Laptops are particularly vulnerable to this, as these–particularly newer models–are usually shipped with built-in WiFi radios.
An attacker could gain complete control over a laptop by sending malformed network traffic to a vulnerable computer, David Maynor, a senior researcher at security service provider SecureWorks, said in a presentation at the Black Hat security event here.
Intel has released patches for its Intel Pro wireless chipsets, which are built-into Centrino laptops.
Three flaws are addressed with the updates. One could allow an attacker to break into a PC via Wi-Fi or even create a worm that jumps from one wireless-enabled laptop to another, provided the computers are within each other’s range. Another security hole makes the system vulnerable to attacks that let a malicious user gain additional privileges, according to security experts at Sans Internet Storm Center and F-Secure.
Intel’s patches address vulnerabilities in its Intel PRO/Wireless 2200BG, 2915ABG, 2100 and 3945ABG Network Connection products, according to a security advisory from the chipmaker.
The Black Hat Briefings is a regular event where corporate and independent security experts, as well as respected hackers, convene to discuss security trends and issues.
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