Sub-technique of T1021 Remote Services.View on attack.mitre.org
Adversaries may use Valid Accounts to remotely control machines using Virtual Network Computing (VNC). VNC is a platform-independent desktop sharing system that uses the RFB (“remote framebuffer”) protocol to enable users to remotely control another computer’s display by relaying the screen, mouse, and keyboard inputs over the network.
VNC differs from Remote Desktop Protocol as VNC is screen-sharing software rather than resource-sharing software. By default, VNC uses the system's authentication, but it can be configured to use credentials specific to VNC.
Adversaries may abuse VNC to perform malicious actions as the logged-on user such as opening documents, downloading files, and running arbitrary commands. An adversary could use VNC to remotely control and monitor a system to collect data and information to pivot to other systems within the network. Specific VNC libraries/implementations have also been susceptible to brute force attacks and memory usage exploitation.
Rules on DetectionCode tagged with T1021.005.
| Rule | Level | Log source |
|---|---|---|
| Suspicious UltraVNC Execution | high | windows / process_creation |
None recorded.
| Used by | Procedure example |
|---|---|
| GroupFIN7 | FIN7 has used TightVNC to control compromised hosts. |
| GroupFox Kitten | Fox Kitten has installed TightVNC server and client on compromised servers and endpoints for lateral movement. |
| GroupGamaredon Group | Gamaredon Group has used VNC tools, including UltraVNC, to remotely interact with compromised hosts. |
| GroupGCMAN | GCMAN uses VNC for lateral movement. |
| Used by | Procedure example |
|---|---|
| MalwareCarberp | Carberp can start a remote VNC session by downloading a new plugin. |
| MalwareDanBot | DanBot can use VNC for remote access to targeted systems. |
| MalwareLatrodectus | Latrodectus has routed C2 traffic using Keyhole VNC. |
| MalwareProton | Proton uses VNC to connect into systems. |
| MalwareTrickBot | TrickBot has used a VNC module to monitor the victim and collect information to pivot to valuable systems on the network |
| MalwareWarzoneRAT | WarzoneRAT has the ability of performing remote desktop access via a VNC console. |
| MalwareZxShell | ZxShell supports functionality for VNC sessions. |
Data from MITRE ATT&CK® (Enterprise). ATT&CK® is a registered trademark of The MITRE Corporation.
