Intel PROSet/Wireless WiFi EUVD-2026-56495

Exploitation requires the attacker to be physically or logically adjacent to the target - on the same broadcast domain, Wi-Fi segment, or within wireless range - which is the primary limiting factor. No authentication, user interaction, or special configuration is required beyond the target running a vulnerable version of Intel PROSet/Wireless WiFi Software with an active wireless interface. The attack cannot be launched remotely over the internet. Devices that are not using the Intel PROSet/Wireless driver (e.g., using native OS drivers or a non-Intel wireless adapter) are not affected.

The CVSS 4.0 score of 8.3 with AV:A/AC:L/AT:N/PR:N/UI:N reflects a meaningful but physically constrained threat: an unauthenticated attacker must be within adjacent network range (same Wi-Fi segment or physical proximity), lowering mass-internet exploitation risk. Availability impact is high on both vulnerable and subsequent systems (VA:H/SA:H), which is notable - loss of wireless on a laptop or endpoint can cascade to remote-management tools, VPN tunnels, and networked services that depend on that interface. No KEV listing and no public exploit code further moderate urgency, placing this in the 'monitor and patch on next cycle' tier for most enterprise environments rather than emergency response. The CVSS 4.0 vector's SA:H metric warrants scrutiny: for a standalone endpoint this subsequent-system impact may be overstated, but for a device functioning as a wireless access point or network bridge, it could be accurate. Organizations with dense open Wi-Fi environments - shared workspaces, conference centers, manufacturing floors - face higher realistic risk than those with tightly controlled RF environments.

An attacker positions themselves on the same Wi-Fi segment as a target host running Intel PROSet/Wireless WiFi Software - for example, at a shared corporate wireless network or public hotspot - and sends specially crafted frames or triggers an anomalous wireless condition that the driver fails to handle. The driver fault causes a denial of service, dropping the wireless interface and severing network connectivity on the affected endpoint. No public exploit code exists at time of analysis, meaning exploitation likely requires custom tooling and local RF proximity.