Russian state-backed hackers exploited WiFi vulnerabilities in a targeted attack against a U.S. company, revealing valuable insights into securing enterprise networks against advanced threats.
What happened
The breach involved APT28, also known as Fancy Bear, compromising a U.S. organization’s enterprise WiFi network. The attackers began by breaching a nearby organization within WiFi range and used it as a bridge to their primary target.
The attack was detected by Volexity, a cybersecurity firm, which identified suspicious activity on a server owned by the victim organization in Washington, D.C. The hackers executed password-spraying attacks and exploited weaknesses in the victim’s multi-factor authentication (MFA) setup, bypassing security measures on direct WiFi connections.
The attackers escalated their access by using vulnerabilities, including a Windows Print Spooler zero-day (CVE-2022-38028), to steal sensitive information and gain deeper control of the network.
A closer look at the tactics
APT28 used dual-home devices, or systems connected to both wired and wireless networks, to work through multiple organizations before reaching the target. The hackers relied on tools like remote desktop utilities and Windows commands to elevate privileges and exfiltrate sensitive data. The attack demonstrated the risks associated with proximity-based threats, as they used nearby organizations to overcome distance limitations.
Risks to keep in mind
The breach exposed how overlooked vulnerabilities in WiFi security can lead to severe risks, particularly when geopolitical tensions are involved. These risks include:
- Exploiting weak MFA configurations: While MFA was implemented, it was not extended to direct WiFi connections, leaving an exploitable gap.
- Using dual-home devices: Devices connected to both wired and wireless networks were used as gateways, indicating the need for network segmentation and better device monitoring.
- Abusing zero-day vulnerabilities: APT28’s use of an unpatched Windows Print Spooler flaw demonstrates the urgency of timely vulnerability management.
- Targeting geopolitical projects: The attackers focused on Ukraine-related data, proving how cyberattacks can intertwine with geopolitical agendas.
Lessons we can learn
Secure WiFi connections, like remote access points
Organizations must treat WiFi access points with the same level of scrutiny as external network access.
Network segmentation and device monitoring
Prevent dual-home devices from bridging wired and wireless networks by enforcing network segmentation. Regular monitoring of device connections can help detect unauthorized access.
Zero-day vulnerabilities require immediate attention
Patch management must be prioritized to address zero-day vulnerabilities, especially for infrastructure and systems connected to sensitive projects.
Proximity attacks aren’t just local
Although proximity-based attacks traditionally relied on physical closeness, this incident shows how proximity risks can extend through digital means.
Ongoing employee training
Employees should be educated on password hygiene and recognizing suspicious activity. Training programs should discuss the necessity of strong, unique passwords and proactive reporting.
FAQs
What is a nearest-neighbor attack?
A nearest-neighbor attack is a tactic where hackers target one organization’s WiFi network within range of another, using the first as a stepping stone to breach the second. This often involves compromising devices that are connected to both networks.
What is password spraying?
Password spraying is a hacking method where attackers try commonly used passwords across many accounts in an organization, aiming to exploit accounts with weak or reused passwords without triggering lockouts.
What is MFA, and how did it fail here?
Multi-factor authentication (MFA) adds a layer of security by requiring additional verification beyond a password. In this case, MFA blocked remote access but wasn’t needed for direct WiFi connections, allowing the hackers to bypass it.
What is a zero-day vulnerability?
A zero-day vulnerability is a software flaw that hackers exploit before it’s patched by the vendor. APT28 used a Windows Print Spooler zero-day (CVE-2022-38028) to escalate access and steal sensitive data during the attack.
Farah Amod
