CVE-2024-26683: wifi: cfg80211: detect stuck ECSA element in probe resp
In the Linux kernel, the following vulnerability has been resolved:
wifi: cfg80211: detect stuck ECSA element in probe resp
We recently added some validation that we don't try to
connect to an AP that is currently in a channel switch
process, since that might want the channel to be quiet
or we might not be able to connect in time to hear the
switching in a beacon. This was in commit c09c4f31998b
("wifi: mac80211: don't connect to an AP while it's in
a CSA process").
However, we promptly got a report that this caused new
connection failures, and it turns out that the AP that
we now cannot connect to is permanently advertising an
extended channel switch announcement, even with quiet.
The AP in question was an Asus RT-AC53, with firmware
3.0.0.4.380_10760-g21a5898.
As a first step, attempt to detect that we're dealing
with such a situation, so mac80211 can use this later.
Security readout for executives and security teams
Plain-English summary
This Linux kernel Wi-Fi issue can cause affected clients to mishandle access points that continuously advertise an extended channel switch announcement. The reported impact is connection failure or unreliable Wi-Fi association, not confirmed system compromise. Severity is not scored in the supplied sources.
Executive priority
Treat as a patch-tracking item unless Wi-Fi availability is business critical. There is no sourced evidence of active exploitation or data compromise, but affected wireless endpoints may experience operational connectivity failures.
Technical view
The flaw is in cfg80211/mac80211 handling of probe responses containing a stuck ECSA element. A prior validation blocked connecting to APs during channel switch announcements; some APs permanently advertise ECSA, causing failures. Kernel stable commits add detection for this condition.
Likely exposure
Exposure appears limited to Linux systems using affected kernel versions around 6.7/6.8 with Wi-Fi client functionality. Systems without Wi-Fi, non-Linux systems, or kernels with the stable fixes are not indicated as exposed by the supplied sources.
Exploitation context
No supplied source reports active exploitation, and CISA KEV status is false. The source describes an observed interoperability problem with an Asus RT-AC53 firmware advertising ECSA persistently, not a public exploit or attacker workflow.
Researcher notes
The record lacks CVSS, CWE, exploitability details, and package-level fixed versions. Analysis should stay focused on kernel cfg80211/mac80211 ECSA handling and distribution backport status, not broader Wi-Fi attack claims.
Mitigation direction
Inventory Linux endpoints using affected 6.7 or 6.8 kernel builds.
Apply kernel or distribution updates containing the referenced stable fixes.
Check vendor advisories for exact fixed package versions.
Prioritize Wi-Fi-dependent laptops, workstations, and edge devices.
Validation and detection
Confirm running kernel versions against distribution security advisories.
Verify fixed kernels include the referenced stable commit backports.
Review Wi-Fi connection failures involving CSA or ECSA indications.
Test affected wireless clients after kernel updates.
Generated from the cited source records. This long-tail analysis has not been individually reviewed by a named human.
Potential ATT&CK relevance
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ATT&CK lookup starting points
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CVE-2024-26683 mapping review
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