Windows WMI Process Call Create: endpointEndpointNoneversion:9
The following analytic detects the execution of WMI command lines used to create or execute processes. It leverages data from Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) agents, focusing on command-line events that include specific keywords like "process," "call," and "create." This activity is significant because adversaries often use WMI to execute malicious payloads on local or remote hosts, potentially bypassing traditional security controls. If confirmed malicious, this behavior could allow attackers to execute arbitrary code, escalate privileges, or maintain persistence within the environment, posing a severe threat to organizational security.
Windows WMIC Shadowcopy Delete: endpointEndpointNoneversion:5
This analytic detects the use of WMIC to delete volume shadow copies, which is a common technique used by ransomware actors to prevent system recovery. Ransomware like Cactus often delete shadow copies before encrypting files to ensure victims cannot recover their data without paying the ransom. This behavior is particularly concerning as it indicates potential ransomware activity or malicious actors attempting to prevent system recovery.
Windows Hidden Schedule Task Settings: endpointEndpointNoneversion:14
The following analytic detects the creation of hidden scheduled tasks on Windows systems, which are not visible in the UI. It leverages Windows Security EventCode 4698 to identify tasks where the 'Hidden' setting is enabled. This behavior is significant as it may indicate malware activity, such as Industroyer2, or the use of living-off-the-land binaries (LOLBINs) to download additional payloads. If confirmed malicious, this activity could allow attackers to execute code stealthily, maintain persistence, or further compromise the system by downloading additional malicious payloads.
HTTP PUA User Agent: networkNetworkNoneversion:6
This Splunk query analyzes web logs to identify and categorize user agents, detecting various types of unwanted applications. This activity can signify possible compromised hosts on the network.
Detect PsExec With accepteula Flag: endpointEndpointNoneversion:19
The following analytic identifies the execution of `PsExec.exe` with the `accepteula` flag in the command line. It leverages data from Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) agents, focusing on process execution logs and command-line arguments. This activity is significant because PsExec is commonly used by threat actors to execute code on remote systems, and the `accepteula` flag indicates first-time usage, which could signify initial compromise. If confirmed malicious, this activity could allow attackers to gain remote code execution capabilities, potentially leading to further system compromise and lateral movement within the network.
Detect RClone Command-Line Usage: endpointEndpointNoneversion:19
The following analytic detects the usage of `rclone.exe` with specific command-line arguments indicative of file transfer activities. It leverages data from Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) agents, focusing on command-line executions and process details. This activity is significant as `rclone.exe` is often used by adversaries for data exfiltration, especially during ransomware attacks. If confirmed malicious, this behavior could lead to unauthorized data transfer, resulting in data breaches and potential loss of sensitive information. Immediate isolation of the affected endpoint and further investigation are recommended.
Detect Remote Access Software Usage Registry: endpointEndpointNoneversion:15
The following analytic detects when a known remote access software is added to common persistence locations on a device within the environment.
Adversaries use these utilities to retain remote access capabilities to the environment.
Utilities in the lookup include AnyDesk, GoToMyPC, LogMeIn, TeamViewer and much more. Review the lookup for the entire list and add any others.
Rundll32 with no Command Line Arguments with Network: endpointEndpointNoneversion:16
The following analytic detects the execution of rundll32.exe without command line arguments, followed by a network connection. This behavior is identified using Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) telemetry and network traffic data. It is significant because rundll32.exe typically requires arguments to function, and its absence is often associated with malicious activity, such as Cobalt Strike. If confirmed malicious, this activity could indicate an attempt to establish unauthorized network connections, potentially leading to data exfiltration or further compromise of the system.
Detect Remote Access Software Usage File: endpointEndpointNoneversion:18
The following analytic detects the writing of files from known remote access software to disk within the environment.
It leverages data from Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) agents, focusing on file path, file name, and user information.
This activity is significant as adversaries often use remote access tools like AnyDesk, GoToMyPC, LogMeIn, and TeamViewer to maintain unauthorized access.
If confirmed malicious, this could allow attackers to persist in the environment, potentially leading to data exfiltration, further compromise, or complete control over affected systems.
It is best to update both the remote_access_software_usage_exception.csv lookup and the remote_access_software lookup with any known or approved remote access software to reduce false positives and increase coverage.
In order to enhance performance, the detection filters for specific file names extensions / names that are used in the remote_access_software lookup.
If add additional entries, consider updating the search filters to include those file names / extensions as well, if not alread covered.
Suspicious Process DNS Query Known Abuse Web Services: endpointEndpointNoneversion:17
The following analytic detects a suspicious process making DNS queries to known, abused text-paste web services, VoIP, instant messaging, and digital distribution platforms. It leverages Sysmon EventID 22 logs to identify queries from processes like cmd.exe, powershell.exe, and others. This activity is significant as it may indicate an attempt to download malicious files, a common initial access technique. If confirmed malicious, this could lead to unauthorized code execution, data exfiltration, or further compromise of the target host.
Suspicious Process With Discord DNS Query: endpointEndpointNoneversion:14
The following analytic identifies a process making a DNS query to Discord, excluding legitimate Discord application paths. It leverages Sysmon logs with Event ID 22 to detect DNS queries containing "discord" in the QueryName field. This activity is significant because Discord can be abused by adversaries to host and download malicious files, as seen in the WhisperGate campaign. If confirmed malicious, this could indicate malware attempting to download additional payloads from Discord, potentially leading to further code execution and compromise of the affected system.
Delete ShadowCopy With PowerShell: endpointEndpointNoneversion:13
The following analytic detects the use of PowerShell to delete shadow copies via the WMIC PowerShell module. It leverages EventCode 4104 and searches for specific keywords like "ShadowCopy," "Delete," or "Remove" within the ScriptBlockText. This activity is significant because deleting shadow copies is a common tactic used by ransomware, such as DarkSide, to prevent data recovery. If confirmed malicious, this action could lead to irreversible data loss and hinder recovery efforts, significantly impacting business continuity and data integrity.
Detect Renamed PSExec: endpointEndpointNoneversion:18
The following analytic identifies instances where `PsExec.exe` has been renamed and executed on an endpoint. It leverages data from Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) agents, focusing on process names and original file names. This activity is significant because renaming `PsExec.exe` is a common tactic to evade detection. If confirmed malicious, this could allow an attacker to execute commands remotely, potentially leading to unauthorized access, lateral movement, or further compromise of the network.
Detect Renamed RClone: endpointEndpointNoneversion:13
The following analytic detects the execution of a renamed `rclone.exe` process, which is commonly used for data exfiltration to remote destinations. This detection leverages Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) telemetry, focusing on process names and original file names that do not match. This activity is significant because ransomware groups often use RClone to exfiltrate sensitive data. If confirmed malicious, this behavior could indicate an ongoing data exfiltration attempt, potentially leading to significant data loss and further compromise of the affected systems.
Disable Windows Behavior Monitoring: endpointEndpointNoneversion:24
The following analytic identifies modifications in the registry to disable Windows Defender's real-time behavior monitoring. It leverages data from the Endpoint.Registry data model, specifically monitoring changes to registry paths associated with Windows Defender settings. This activity is significant because disabling real-time protection is a common tactic used by malware such as RATs, bots, or Trojans to evade detection. If confirmed malicious, this action could allow an attacker to execute code, escalate privileges, or persist in the environment without being detected by antivirus software.
Windows Remote Access Software Hunt: endpointEndpoint2025-05-02version:8
This search is deprecated in favor of the new detection - Detect Remote Access Software Usage Process. The following analytic identifies the use of remote access software within the environment. It leverages data from Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) agents, focusing on process execution logs. This detection is significant as unauthorized remote access tools can be used by adversaries to maintain persistent access to compromised systems. If confirmed malicious, this activity could allow attackers to remotely control systems, exfiltrate data, or further infiltrate the network. Review the identified software to ensure it is authorized and take action against any unauthorized utilities.
Windows PUA Named Pipe: endpointEndpointNoneversion:6
The following analytic detects the creation or connection to named pipes used by potentially unwanted applications (PUAs) like VPNs or utilities like PsExec.
It leverages Sysmon EventCodes 17 and 18.
If confirmed malicious, this could allow an attacker to abuse these to potentially gain persistence, command and control, or further system compromise.
Executables Or Script Creation In Suspicious Path: endpointEndpointNoneversion:32
The following analytic identifies the creation of executables or scripts in suspicious file paths on Windows systems. It leverages the Endpoint.Filesystem dataset to detect files with specific extensions (e.g., .exe, .dll, .ps1) created in uncommon directories (e.g., \windows\fonts\, \users\public\). This activity can be significant as adversaries often use these paths to evade detection and maintain persistence. If confirmed malicious, this behavior could allow attackers to execute unauthorized code, escalate privileges, or persist within the environment, posing a significant security threat.
Disable Defender AntiVirus Registry: endpointEndpointNoneversion:19
The following analytic detects the modification of Windows Defender registry settings to disable antivirus and antispyware protections. It leverages data from the Endpoint.Registry data model, specifically monitoring changes to registry paths associated with Windows Defender policies. This activity is significant because disabling antivirus protections is a common tactic used by adversaries to evade detection and maintain persistence on compromised systems. If confirmed malicious, this action could allow attackers to execute further malicious activities undetected, leading to potential data breaches, system compromise, and further propagation of malware within the network.
Creation of lsass Dump with Taskmgr: endpointWindowsNoneversion:15
The following analytic detects the creation of an lsass.exe process dump using Windows Task Manager.
It leverages Sysmon EventID 11 to identify file creation events where the target filename matches *lsass*.dmp.
This activity is significant because creating an lsass dump can be a precursor to credential theft, as the dump file contains sensitive information such as user passwords.
SearchProtocolHost with no Command Line with Network: endpointEndpointNoneversion:15
The following analytic detects instances of searchprotocolhost.exe running without command line arguments but with an active network connection. This behavior is identified using Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) telemetry, focusing on process execution and network traffic data. It is significant because searchprotocolhost.exe typically runs with specific command line arguments, and deviations from this norm can indicate malicious activity, such as Cobalt Strike usage. If confirmed malicious, this activity could allow attackers to establish network connections for command and control, potentially leading to data exfiltration or further system compromise.
Deleting Shadow Copies: endpointEndpointNoneversion:19
The following analytic detects the deletion of shadow copies using the vssadmin.exe or wmic.exe utilities. It leverages data from Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) agents, focusing on process names and command-line arguments. This activity is significant because deleting shadow copies is a common tactic used by attackers to prevent recovery and hide their tracks. If confirmed malicious, this action could hinder incident response efforts and allow attackers to maintain persistence and cover their activities, making it crucial for security teams to investigate promptly.
Windows RMM Named Pipe: endpointEndpointNoneversion:6
The following analytic detects the creation or connection to known suspicious named pipes, which is a technique often used by offensive tools.
It leverages Sysmon EventCodes 17 and 18 to identify known default pipe names used by RMM tools.
If confirmed malicious, this could allow an attacker to abuse these to potentially gain persistence, command and control, or further system compromise.
Detect Remote Access Software Usage FileInfo: endpointEndpointNoneversion:17
The following analytic detects the execution of processes with file or code signing attributes from known remote access software within
the environment. It leverages Sysmon EventCode 1 data and cross-references a lookup table of remote access utilities such as AnyDesk,
GoToMyPC, LogMeIn, and TeamViewer. This activity is significant as adversaries often use these tools to maintain unauthorized remote access.
If confirmed malicious, this could allow attackers to persist in the environment, potentially leading to data exfiltration or further
compromise of the network.
PowerShell 4104 Hunting: endpointEndpointNoneversion:29
The following analytic identifies suspicious PowerShell execution using Script Block Logging (EventCode 4104). It leverages specific patterns and keywords within the ScriptBlockText field to detect potentially malicious activities. This detection is significant for SOC analysts as PowerShell is commonly used by attackers for various malicious purposes, including code execution, privilege escalation, and persistence.
If confirmed malicious, this activity could allow attackers to execute arbitrary commands, exfiltrate data, or maintain long-term access to the compromised system, posing a severe threat to the organization's security.
Ransomware Notes bulk creation: endpointEndpointNoneversion:16
The following analytic identifies the bulk creation of ransomware notes (e.g., .txt, .html, .hta files) on an infected machine. It leverages Sysmon EventCode 11 to detect multiple instances of these file types being created within a short time frame. This activity is significant as it often indicates an active ransomware attack, where the attacker is notifying the victim of the encryption. If confirmed malicious, this behavior could lead to widespread data encryption, rendering critical files inaccessible and potentially causing significant operational disruption.
DLLHost with no Command Line Arguments with Network: endpointEndpointNoneversion:17
The following analytic detects instances of DLLHost.exe running without
command line arguments while establishing a network connection.
This behavior is identified using Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) telemetry,
focusing on process execution and network activity data.
It is significant because DLLHost.exe typically runs with specific arguments,
and its absence can indicate malicious activity, such as Cobalt Strike usage.
If confirmed malicious, this activity could allow attackers to execute code,
move laterally, or exfiltrate data, posing a severe threat to the network's security.
Suspicious SearchProtocolHost no Command Line Arguments: endpointEndpointNoneversion:15
The following analytic detects instances of searchprotocolhost.exe running without command line arguments.
This behavior is unusual and often associated with malicious activities, such as those performed by Cobalt Strike.
The detection leverages Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) telemetry, focusing on process execution data.
This activity is significant because searchprotocolhost.exe typically runs with specific arguments, and its absence may indicate an attempt to evade detection.
If confirmed malicious, this could lead to unauthorized code execution, potential credential dumping, or other malicious actions within the environment.
Registry Keys Used For Persistence: endpointEndpointNoneversion:35
The following analytic identifies modifications to registry keys commonly used for persistence mechanisms. It leverages data from endpoint detection sources like Sysmon or Carbon Black, focusing on specific registry paths known to initiate applications or services during system startup. This activity is significant as unauthorized changes to these keys can indicate attempts to maintain persistence or execute malicious actions upon system boot. If confirmed malicious, this could allow attackers to achieve persistent access, execute arbitrary code, or maintain control over compromised systems, posing a severe threat to system integrity and security.
Access LSASS Memory for Dump Creation: endpointWindowsNoneversion:16
The following analytic detects attempts to dump the LSASS process memory, a common technique in credential dumping attacks. It leverages Sysmon logs, specifically EventCode 10, to identify suspicious call traces to dbgcore.dll and dbghelp.dll associated with lsass.exe. This activity is significant as it often precedes the theft of sensitive login credentials, posing a high risk of unauthorized access to systems and data. If confirmed malicious, attackers could gain access to critical credentials, enabling further compromise and lateral movement within the network.
Suspicious DLLHost no Command Line Arguments: endpointEndpointNoneversion:14
The following analytic detects instances of DLLHost.exe executing without command line arguments. This behavior is unusual and often associated with malicious activities, such as those performed by Cobalt Strike. The detection leverages data from Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) agents, focusing on process execution logs. This activity is significant because DLLHost.exe typically requires arguments to function correctly, and its absence may indicate an attempt to evade detection. If confirmed malicious, this could lead to unauthorized actions like credential dumping or file manipulation, posing a severe threat to the environment.
Detect Remote Access Software Usage Process: endpointEndpointNoneversion:19
The following analytic detects the execution of known remote access software within the environment.
It leverages data from Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) agents, focusing on process names and parent processes mapped to the Endpoint data model. We then compare with with a list of known remote access software shipped as a lookup file - remote_access_software.
