# New Attack Against Wi-Fi: Unveiling AirSnitch

## **Executive Summary**
In an evolving cyber threat landscape, the new AirSnitch attack targets the foundational layers of Wi-Fi networking, enabling attackers to conduct devastating machine-in-the-middle (MitM) operations. Understanding and mitigating this threat is imperative for securing both corporate and home environments.

## **The Deep Dive (Technical Analysis)**
### **Dissection of AirSnitch**
AirSnitch exploits vulnerabilities inherent in the synchronization between Layer 1 (Physical Layer) and Layer 2 (Data Link Layer) of the OSI model, extending its reach to manipulate upper-layer protocols. This attack leverages the lack of stringent binding protocols between these layers, allowing attackers to intercept and manipulate data packets as they traverse through these foundational network segments.

### **Mechanism of Action**
The attack is primarily executed via a MitM strategy, where the attacker positions themselves between the communicating devices on the network. This positioning can be achieved on the same SSID, different SSIDs, or even across segmented network zones linked to the same access point (AP). By exploiting these layers, an attacker gains the ability to intercept all link-layer traffic, manipulate DNS responses through cache poisoning, and potentially gain access to unencrypted internal network traffic.

## **🛡️ SOC Analyst Actions (The "Blue Team" Playbook)**
### **Detection Opportunities**
- **Wi-Fi Traffic Logs**: Monitor for anomalies in traffic patterns, such as unexpected devices on the network or unusual data flows.
- **DNS Query Logs**: Look for sudden changes in DNS traffic or unusual repeated DNS requests, which could indicate DNS cache poisoning.
- **Network Segmentation Violations**: Alerts from network tools that detect cross-segment traffic that should not be present.

### **Triage Steps**
- Immediately isolate suspected compromised devices from the network to prevent further data leakage.
- Verify network configuration and segmentation to ensure that proper security controls are in place and functioning.
- Update and patch all network devices against known vulnerabilities and ensure that encryption protocols are enforced.

## **🎓 Student Corner (The "Why" & "How")**
### **Definition: Machine-in-the-middle (MitM) Attack**
A MitM attack is a cyberattack where the attacker secretly intercepts and possibly alters the communication between two parties who believe they are directly communicating with each other.

### **Relevance in Job Interviews**
Understanding MitM and its implications shows deep knowledge of network security and threat vectors, an essential skill for roles in cybersecurity operations and defense strategies.

## **🚀 Simulation Brief (Call to Action)**
We have replicated the AirSnitch attack vector in our VirtualSOC range. Deploy to the dashboard and investigate the alert named “AirSnitch MitM Detection” to test your skills against this advanced TTP.

## **MITRE ATT&CK Mapping**
- **T1557.002**: Man-in-the-Middle: ARP Cache Poisoning
- **T1040**: Network Sniffing
- **T1562.004**: Impair Defenses: Disable or Modify System Firewall


Engage in our InfoSecLabs Dashboard to combat this novel threat and sharpen your cyber defense skills.

