2.10 Ensure 'Wi-Fi scanning' Is 'Disabled'

Information

Wi-Fi scanning is a feature that allows your device to continuously scan for nearby Wi-Fi networks even when Wi-Fi is turned off. While it's used to improve location accuracy for services like Google Maps and Find My Phone, it also presents some security and privacy risks.

Rationale:

Wi-Fi scanning can make you vulnerable to attacks, especially when your device is configured to automatically connect to known networks. Threat actors can set up an 'evil twin' network-a fake Wi-Fi access point with a common name like 'Free Public Wi-Fi.' Your phone might automatically connect to this malicious network, allowing the attacker to intercept your data and/or distribute malware.

Impact:

Turning off Wi-Fi scanning could affect location accuracy and convenience.

NOTE: Nessus has not performed this check. Please review the benchmark to ensure target compliance.

Solution

Follow the below steps to disable Wi-Fi assistant:

Open phone's Settings app.

Tap Location.

Tap Location services.

Tap Wi-Fi scanning.

Toggle Wi-Fi scanning to OFF position.

Default Value:

Unset, same as disabled

See Also

https://workbench.cisecurity.org/benchmarks/23192

Item Details

Category: CONFIGURATION MANAGEMENT

References: 800-53|CM-7

Plugin: MDM

Control ID: a5c45d13ea8c7e6dc3107aeedb8f6fddd27930bab358efee86f1ff97969986d7