A recent report from Nozomi Networks Labs has revealed a stark reality regarding the security of wireless networks, particularly in critical infrastructure sectors. The analysis, which examined over 500,000 wireless networks globally, found that only 6% are adequately protected against wireless deauthentication attacks. This alarming statistic underscores the high risk of unauthorized access and disruption in mission-critical environments, including healthcare and industrial settings.

Wireless Networks: A High Security Risk

The report highlights that vulnerabilities in wireless networks pose significant threats to sensitive data and operational integrity. In healthcare, for instance, these vulnerabilities could lead to unauthorized access to patient data or interference with critical systems. Similarly, in industrial environments, such attacks could disrupt automated processes, halt production lines, or create safety hazards for workers.

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Cyber Threat Activity Across Industries

The second half of 2024 saw a surge in cyber threat activity, with nearly half of the observed alerts occurring in the Impact phase of the cyber kill chain. This was particularly pronounced in industries such as Manufacturing, Transportation, Energy, Utilities, and Water/Wastewater. Command and Control (C&C) techniques were also prevalent, indicating that adversaries are intent on maintaining deep access and control within critical infrastructure systems.

Vulnerability Insights

The report identified 619 new vulnerabilities in the second half of 2024, with 71% classified as critical. Notably, 20 vulnerabilities had high Exploit Prediction Scoring System (EPSS) scores, suggesting a high likelihood of future exploitation. Furthermore, four vulnerabilities were observed being actively exploited in the wild, emphasizing the urgent need for organizations to address and mitigate these risks promptly.

Critical manufacturing emerged as the sector with the highest number of Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures (CVEs), accounting for 75% of all CVEs reported over the past six months. This was followed by Energy, Communications, Transportation, and Commercial Facilities.

Recommendations for Enhanced Security

To strengthen defenses against these threats, security professionals are advised to integrate the best available OT/ICS-specific threat intelligence into their cybersecurity platforms. This includes regularly monitoring and auditing networks for suspicious activity, implementing strong security measures such as encryption and strong passwords, and ensuring timely updates and patches for network devices.

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Global Context and Regulatory Challenges

The threat landscape is always changing, and this is a global concern. Nation-state threats are shifting from espionage to more destructive objectives, posing significant challenges for critical infrastructure operators. Regulatory approaches to cyber resilience are crucial, yet gaps remain, particularly in mobile network security and inter-carrier connectivity.

Key Takeaways:

Wireless Network Vulnerabilities: Only 6% of wireless networks are adequately protected against deauthentication attacks.

Critical Infrastructure Risks: Manufacturing, healthcare, and industrial sectors face significant risks from wireless network vulnerabilities.

Cyber Threat Activity: High threat activity observed across various industries, with manufacturing at the highest risk.

Vulnerability Insights: 71% of new vulnerabilities are critical, with a high likelihood of future exploitation.

Recommendations: Implement strong security measures, integrate threat intelligence, and regularly update network devices.

As the threat landscape continues to evolve, proactive measures are essential to safeguard critical infrastructure and prevent potential disasters.

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FAQs

1. What is the key finding of the Nozomi Networks Labs report?

The report’s key finding is that wireless networks are woefully unprotected, with only 6% adequately protected against wireless deauthentication attacks. This leaves critical infrastructure highly vulnerable to cyberattacks.

2. Which industries are most at risk according to the report?

The report highlights that Manufacturing, Transportation, Energy, Utilities, and Water/Wastewater are particularly at risk. Critical Manufacturing accounted for 75% of all Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures (CVEs) reported in the last six months in ICS security advisories released by CISA.

3. What did the report reveal about newly discovered vulnerabilities?

Researchers discovered 619 new vulnerabilities in the second half of 2024, with 71% classified as critical. Twenty vulnerabilities have high Exploit Prediction Scoring System (EPSS) scores, and four are already being actively exploited in the wild (KEV).

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Conclusion

The Nozomi Networks Labs report reveals a concerning lack of security in wireless networks, leaving critical infrastructure vulnerable. With only 6% adequately protected against deauthentication attacks, industries like manufacturing, energy, and healthcare face significant risks. The report highlights a surge in cyber threat activity, with attackers deeply embedded in critical systems. The discovery of numerous critical vulnerabilities, some already exploited, demands immediate action. Organizations must prioritize security measures and heed the report’s recommendations to safeguard against escalating threats and ensure the resilience and safety of essential services.

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