Linux Auditd Possible Access To Credential Files: endpointEndpointNoneversion:13
The following analytic detects attempts to access or dump the contents of /etc/passwd and /etc/shadow files on Linux systems. It leverages data from Linux Auditd, focusing on processes like 'cat', 'nano', 'vim', and 'vi' accessing these files. This activity is significant as it may indicate credential dumping, a technique used by adversaries to gain persistence or escalate privileges. If confirmed malicious, privileges. If confirmed malicious, attackers could obtain hashed passwords for offline cracking, leading to unauthorized access and potential system compromise.
Windows Credentials from Password Stores Chrome Login Data Access: endpointEndpointNoneversion:24
The following analytic identifies non-Chrome processes accessing the Chrome user data file "login data."
This file is an SQLite database containing sensitive information, including saved passwords.
The detection leverages Windows Security Event logs, specifically event code 4663, to monitor access attempts.
This activity is significant as it may indicate attempts by threat actors to extract and decrypt stored passwords, posing a risk to user credentials.
If confirmed malicious, attackers could gain unauthorized access to sensitive accounts and escalate their privileges within the environment.
Linux Possible Access To Credential Files: endpointEndpointNoneversion:14
The following analytic detects attempts to access or dump the contents of /etc/passwd and /etc/shadow files on Linux systems. It leverages data from Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) agents, focusing on processes like 'cat', 'nano', 'vim', and 'vi' accessing these files. This activity is significant as it may indicate credential dumping, a technique used by adversaries to gain persistence or escalate privileges. If confirmed malicious, attackers could obtain hashed passwords for offline cracking, leading to unauthorized access and potential system compromise.
Any Powershell DownloadFile: endpointEndpoint2025-06-23version:16
The following analytic detects the use of PowerShell's `DownloadFile` method to download files. It leverages data from Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) agents, focusing on process execution logs. This activity is significant as it is commonly used in malicious frameworks to download and execute additional payloads. If confirmed malicious, this could lead to unauthorized code execution, data exfiltration, or further compromise of the system. Analysts should investigate the source and destination of the download and review AMSI or PowerShell transaction logs for additional context.
Detect Renamed WinRAR: endpointEndpointNoneversion:17
The following analytic identifies instances where `WinRAR.exe` has been renamed and executed. It leverages data from Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) agents, focusing on process names and original file names within the Endpoint data model. This activity is significant because renaming executables is a common tactic used by attackers to evade detection. If confirmed malicious, this could indicate an attempt to bypass security controls, potentially leading to unauthorized data extraction or further system compromise.
Windows Svchost.exe Parent Process Anomaly: endpointEndpointNoneversion:8
The following analytic detects an anomaly where an svchost.exe process is spawned by a parent process other than the standard services.exe. In a typical Windows environment, svchost.exe is a system process that hosts Windows service DLLs, and is expected to be a child of services.exe. A process deviation from this hierarchy may indicate suspicious behavior, such as malicious code attempting to masquerade as a legitimate system process or evade detection. It is essential to investigate the parent process and associated behavior for further signs of compromise or unauthorized activity.
Windows Suspicious VMWare Tools Child Process: endpointEndpointNoneversion:5
The following analytic identifies child processes spawned by vmtoolsd.exe, the VMWare Tools service in Windows, which typically runs with SYSTEM privileges. This detection leverages data from Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) agents, focusing on process and parent process relationships. Monitoring this activity is crucial as it can indicate exploitation attempts, such as CVE-2023-20867. If confirmed malicious, attackers could gain SYSTEM-level access, allowing them to execute arbitrary code, escalate privileges, and potentially compromise the entire system.
Internal Horizontal Port Scan: networkEndpointNoneversion:14
This analytic identifies instances where an internal host has attempted to communicate with 250 or more destination IP addresses using the same port and protocol. Horizontal port scans from internal hosts can indicate reconnaissance or scanning activities, potentially signaling malicious intent or misconfiguration. By monitoring network traffic logs, this detection helps detect and respond to such behavior promptly, enhancing network security and preventing potential threats.
Windows Archive Collected Data via Rar: endpointEndpointNoneversion:14
The following analytic identifies the execution of RAR utilities to archive files on a system. It leverages data from Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) agents, focusing on process names, GUIDs, and command-line arguments. This activity is significant as threat actors, including red-teamers and malware like DarkGate, use RAR archiving to compress and exfiltrate collected data from compromised hosts. If confirmed malicious, this behavior could lead to the unauthorized transfer of sensitive information to command and control servers, posing a severe risk to data confidentiality and integrity.
WinEvent Scheduled Task Created to Spawn Shell: endpointEndpointNoneversion:20
The following analytic detects the creation of scheduled tasks designed to execute commands using native Windows shells like PowerShell, Cmd, Wscript, or Cscript. It leverages Windows Security EventCode 4698 to identify when such tasks are registered. This activity is significant as it may indicate an attempt to establish persistence or execute malicious commands on a system. If confirmed malicious, this could allow an attacker to maintain access, execute arbitrary code, or escalate privileges, posing a severe threat to the environment.
Windows Process Execution From ProgramData: endpointEndpointNoneversion:10
The following analytic identifies processes running from file paths within
the ProgramData directory, a common location abused by adversaries for executing
malicious code while evading detection. Threat actors often drop and execute payloads
from this directory to bypass security controls, as it typically has write permissions
for standard users. While this behavior can indicate malware execution or persistence
techniques, it is important to note that some legitimate software, installers, and
update mechanisms also run from ProgramData, leading to potential false positives.
Security teams should validate detections by correlating with other indicators,
such as unusual parent processes, unsigned binaries, or anomalous network activity.
Windows Service Creation Using Registry Entry: endpointEndpointNoneversion:20
The following analytic detects the modification of registry keys that define Windows services using reg.exe. This detection leverages Splunk to search for specific keywords in the registry path, value name, and value data fields. This activity is significant because it indicates potential unauthorized changes to service configurations, a common persistence technique used by attackers. If confirmed malicious, this could allow an attacker to maintain access, escalate privileges, or move laterally within the network, leading to data theft, ransomware, or other damaging outcomes.
Linux Iptables Firewall Modification: endpointEndpointNoneversion:16
The following analytic detects suspicious command-line activity that modifies the iptables firewall settings on a Linux machine. It leverages data from Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) agents, focusing on specific command patterns that alter firewall rules to accept traffic on certain TCP ports. This activity is significant as it can indicate malware, such as CyclopsBlink, modifying firewall settings to allow communication with a Command and Control (C2) server. If confirmed malicious, this could enable attackers to maintain persistent access and exfiltrate data, posing a severe security risk.
Internal Horizontal Port Scan NMAP Top 20: networkEndpointNoneversion:13
This analytic identifies instances where an internal host has attempted to communicate with 250 or more destination IP addresses using on of the NMAP top 20 ports. Horizontal port scans from internal hosts can indicate reconnaissance or scanning activities, potentially signaling malicious intent or misconfiguration. By monitoring network traffic logs, this detection helps detect and respond to such behavior promptly, enhancing network security and preventing potential threats.
Linux Auditd Preload Hijack Library Calls: endpointEndpointNoneversion:13
The following analytic detects the use of the LD_PRELOAD environment variable to hijack or hook library functions on a Linux platform. It leverages data from Linux Auditd, focusing on process execution logs that include command-line details. This activity is significant because adversaries, malware authors, and red teamers commonly use this technique to gain elevated privileges and establish persistence on a compromised machine. If confirmed malicious, this behavior could allow attackers to execute arbitrary code, escalate privileges, and maintain long-term access to the system.
Linux Install Kernel Module Using Modprobe Utility: endpointEndpointNoneversion:13
The following analytic detects the installation of a Linux kernel module using the modprobe utility. It leverages data from Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) agents, focusing on process names and command-line executions. This activity is significant because installing a kernel module can indicate an attempt to deploy a rootkit or other malicious kernel-level code, potentially leading to elevated privileges and bypassing security detections. If confirmed malicious, this could allow an attacker to gain persistent, high-level access to the system, compromising its integrity and security.
Windows Credentials from Password Stores Chrome LocalState Access: endpointEndpointNoneversion:24
The following analytic detects non-Chrome processes accessing the Chrome "Local State" file, which contains critical settings and information. It leverages Windows Security Event logs, specifically event code 4663, to identify this behavior.
This activity is significant because threat actors can exploit this file to extract the encrypted master key used for decrypting saved passwords in Chrome.
If confirmed malicious, this could lead to unauthorized access to sensitive information, posing a severe security risk.
Monitoring this anomaly helps identify potential threats and safeguard browser-stored data.
Windows Unsigned DLL Side-Loading In Same Process Path: endpointEndpointNoneversion:20
This detection identifies unsigned DLLs loaded through DLL side-loading with same file path with the process loaded the DLL, a technique observed in DarkGate malware. This detection monitors DLL loading, verifies signatures, and flags unsigned DLLs. Suspicious file paths and known executable associations are checked. Detecting such suspicious DLLs is crucial in preventing privilege escalation attacks and other potential security breaches. Regular security assessments, thorough monitoring, and implementing security best practices are essential in safeguarding systems from such threats.
Internal Vertical Port Scan: networkEndpointNoneversion:13
This analytic detects instances where an internal host attempts to communicate with over 500 ports on a single destination IP address. It includes filtering criteria to exclude applications performing scans over ephemeral port ranges, focusing on potential reconnaissance or scanning activities. Monitoring network traffic logs allows for timely detection and response to such behavior, enhancing network security by identifying and mitigating potential threats promptly.
Windows Service Created with Suspicious Service Path: endpointEndpointNoneversion:20
The following analytic detects the creation of a Windows Service with a binary path located in uncommon directories, using Windows Event ID 7045. It leverages logs from the `wineventlog_system` to identify services installed outside typical system directories. This activity is significant as adversaries, including those deploying Clop ransomware, often create malicious services for lateral movement, remote code execution, persistence, and execution. If confirmed malicious, this could allow attackers to maintain persistence, execute arbitrary code, and potentially escalate privileges, posing a severe threat to the environment.
Linux Possible Access To Sudoers File: endpointEndpointNoneversion:13
The following analytic detects potential access or modification of the /etc/sudoers file on a Linux system. It leverages data from Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) agents, focusing on processes like "cat," "nano," "vim," and "vi" accessing the /etc/sudoers file. This activity is significant because the sudoers file controls user permissions for executing commands with elevated privileges. If confirmed malicious, an attacker could gain persistence or escalate privileges, compromising the security of the targeted host.
Detect Rare Executables: endpointEndpointNoneversion:14
The following analytic detects the execution of rare processes that appear only once across the network within a specified timeframe.
It leverages data from Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) agents, focusing on process execution logs.
This activity is significant for a SOC as it helps identify potentially malicious activities or unauthorized software, which could indicate a security breach or ongoing attack.
If confirmed malicious, such rare processes could lead to data theft, privilege escalation, or complete system compromise, making early detection crucial for minimizing impact.
The search currently identifies processes executed on fewer than 10 hosts, but this threshold can be adjusted based on the organization's environment and risk tolerance.
The search groups results by process name which can lead to blind spots if a malicious process uses a common name. To mitigate this, consider enhancing the detection logic to group by additional attributes such as process hash.
Windows Query Registry Browser List Application: endpointEndpointNoneversion:10
The following analytic detects a suspicious process accessing the registry entries for default internet browsers. It leverages Windows Security Event logs, specifically event code 4663, to identify access attempts to these registry paths. This activity is significant because adversaries can exploit this registry key to gather information about installed browsers and their settings, potentially leading to the theft of sensitive data such as login credentials and browsing history. If confirmed malicious, this behavior could enable attackers to exfiltrate sensitive information and compromise user accounts.
ESXi VM Discovery: endpointInfrastructureNoneversion:5
This detection identifies the use of ESXCLI commands to discover virtual machines on an ESXi host While used by administrators, this activity may also indicate adversary reconnaissance aimed at identifying high value targets, mapping the virtual environment, or preparing for data theft or destructive operations.
Windows Unsigned DLL Side-Loading: endpointEndpointNoneversion:15
The following analytic detects the creation of potentially malicious unsigned DLLs in the c:\windows\system32 or c:\windows\syswow64 folders. It leverages Sysmon EventCode 7 logs to identify unsigned DLLs with unavailable signatures loaded in these critical directories. This activity is significant as it may indicate a DLL hijacking attempt, a technique used by attackers to gain unauthorized access and execute malicious code. If confirmed malicious, this could lead to privilege escalation, allowing the attacker to gain elevated privileges and further compromise the target system.
ESXi Malicious VIB Forced Install: endpointInfrastructureNoneversion:5
Detects potentially malicious installation of VMware Installation Bundles (VIBs) using the --force flag. The --force option bypasses signature and compatibility checks, allowing unsigned, community-supported, or incompatible VIBs to be installed on an ESXi host. This behavior is uncommon in normal administrative operations and is often observed in post-compromise scenarios where adversaries attempt to install backdoored or unauthorized kernel modules, drivers, or monitoring tools to establish persistence or gain deeper control of the hypervisor.
WinEvent Scheduled Task Created Within Public Path: endpointEndpointNoneversion:25
The following analytic detects the creation of scheduled tasks within user-writable paths using Windows Security EventCode 4698. It identifies tasks registered via schtasks.exe or TaskService that execute commands from directories like Public, ProgramData, Temp, and AppData. This behavior is significant as it may indicate an attempt to establish persistence or execute unauthorized commands. If confirmed malicious, an attacker could maintain long-term access, escalate privileges, or execute arbitrary code, posing a severe threat to system integrity and security.
Linux Auditd File Permission Modification Via Chmod: endpointEndpointNoneversion:15
The following analytic detects suspicious file permission modifications using the `chmod` command, which may indicate an attacker attempting to alter access controls on critical files or directories. Such modifications can be used to grant unauthorized users elevated privileges or to conceal malicious activities by restricting legitimate access. By monitoring for unusual or unauthorized `chmod` usage, this analytic helps identify potential security breaches, allowing security teams to respond promptly to prevent privilege escalation, data tampering, or other unauthorized actions on the system.
Windows Replication Through Removable Media: endpointEndpointNoneversion:15
The following analytic detects the creation or dropping of executable or script files in the root directory of a removable drive. It leverages data from the Endpoint.Filesystem datamodel, focusing on specific file types and their creation paths. This activity is significant as it may indicate an attempt to spread malware, such as ransomware, via removable media. If confirmed malicious, this behavior could lead to unauthorized code execution, lateral movement, or persistence within the network, potentially compromising sensitive data and systems.
Suspicious Regsvr32 Register Suspicious Path: endpointEndpointNoneversion:18
The following analytic detects the use of Regsvr32.exe to register DLLs from suspicious paths such as AppData, ProgramData, or Windows Temp directories. It leverages data from Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) agents, focusing on process execution logs and command-line arguments. This activity is significant because Regsvr32.exe can be abused to proxy execution of malicious code, bypassing traditional security controls. If confirmed malicious, this could allow an attacker to execute arbitrary code, potentially leading to system compromise, data exfiltration, or further lateral movement within the network.
Linux Auditd Nopasswd Entry In Sudoers File: endpointEndpointNoneversion:12
The following analytic detects the addition of NOPASSWD entries to the /etc/sudoers file on Linux systems. It leverages Linux Auditd data to identify command lines containing "NOPASSWD:". This activity is significant because it allows users to execute commands with elevated privileges without requiring a password, which can be exploited by adversaries to maintain persistent, privileged access. If confirmed malicious, this could lead to unauthorized privilege escalation, persistent access, and potential compromise of sensitive data and system integrity.
Linux Common Process For Elevation Control: endpointEndpointNoneversion:12
The following analytic identifies the execution of common Linux processes used for elevation control, such as `chmod`, `chown`, and `setuid`. It leverages data from Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) agents, focusing on process names and command-line executions. This activity is significant because these processes are often abused by adversaries to gain persistence or escalate privileges on compromised hosts. If confirmed malicious, this behavior could allow attackers to modify file attributes, change file ownership, or set user IDs, potentially leading to unauthorized access and control over critical system resources.
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.
Windows Access Token Manipulation SeDebugPrivilege: endpointEndpointNoneversion:24
The following analytic detects a process enabling the "SeDebugPrivilege" privilege token. It leverages Windows Security Event Logs with EventCode 4703, filtering out common legitimate processes. This activity is significant because SeDebugPrivilege allows a process to inspect and modify the memory of other processes, potentially leading to credential dumping or code injection. If confirmed malicious, an attacker could gain extensive control over system processes, enabling them to escalate privileges, persist in the environment, or access sensitive information.
ESXi Sensitive Files Accessed: endpointInfrastructureNoneversion:5
This detection identifies access to sensitive system and configuration files on an ESXi host, including authentication data, service configurations, and VMware-specific management settings. Interaction with these files may indicate adversary reconnaissance, credential harvesting, or preparation for privilege escalation, lateral movement, or persistence.
Windows Credential Access From Browser Password Store: endpointEndpointNoneversion:24
The following analytic identifies a possible non-common browser process accessing its browser user data profile.
This tactic/technique has been observed in various Trojan Stealers, such as SnakeKeylogger, which attempt to gather sensitive browser information and credentials as part of their exfiltration strategy.
Detecting this anomaly can serve as a valuable pivot for identifying processes that access lists of browser user data profiles unexpectedly.
This detection uses a lookup file `browser_app_list` that maintains a list of well known browser applications and the browser paths that are allowed to access the browser user data profiles.
Linux Medusa Rootkit: endpointEndpointNoneversion:7
This detection identifies file creation events associated with the installation of the Medusa rootkit, a userland LD_PRELOAD-based rootkit known for deploying shared objects, loader binaries, and configuration files into specific system directories. These files typically facilitate process hiding, credential theft, and backdoor access. Monitoring for such file creation patterns enables early detection of rootkit deployment before full compromise.
Suspicious Scheduled Task from Public Directory: endpointEndpointNoneversion:21
The following analytic identifies the creation of scheduled tasks that execute binaries or scripts from public directories, such as users\public, \programdata\, or \windows\temp, using schtasks.exe with the /create command. It leverages Sysmon Event ID 1 data to detect this behavior. This activity is significant because it often indicates an attempt to maintain persistence or execute malicious scripts, which are common tactics in malware deployment. If confirmed as malicious, this could lead to data compromise, unauthorized access, and potential lateral movement within the network.
Windows SnappyBee Create Test Registry: endpointEndpointNoneversion:7
The following analytic detects modifications to the Windows registry under `SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Test`, a location rarely used by legitimate applications in a production environment. Monitoring this key is crucial, as adversaries may create or alter values here for monitoring update of itself file path, updated configuration file, or system mark compromised. The detection leverages **Sysmon Event ID 13** (Registry Value Set) to identify unauthorized changes. Analysts should investigate processes associated with these modifications, particularly unsigned executables or suspicious command-line activity, as they may indicate malware or unauthorized software behavior.
Non Chrome Process Accessing Chrome Default Dir: endpointEndpointNoneversion:21
The following analytic detects a non-Chrome process accessing files in the Chrome user default folder. It leverages Windows Security Event logs, specifically event code 4663, to identify unauthorized access attempts. This activity is significant because the Chrome default folder contains sensitive user data such as login credentials, browsing history, and cookies. If confirmed malicious, this behavior could indicate an attempt to exfiltrate sensitive information, often associated with RATs, trojans, and advanced persistent threats like FIN7. Such access could lead to data theft and further compromise of the affected system.
Linux Auditd Possible Access To Sudoers File: endpointEndpointNoneversion:14
The following analytic detects potential access or modification of the /etc/sudoers file on a Linux system.
It leverages data from Linux Auditd, focusing on events of type PATH or CWD.
This activity could be significant because the sudoers file controls user permissions for executing commands with elevated privileges.
Correlate this with related EXECVE or PROCTITLE events to identify the process or user responsible for the access or modification.
If confirmed malicious, an attacker could gain persistence or escalate privileges, compromising the security of the targeted host.
Windows Unsigned MS DLL Side-Loading: endpointEndpointNoneversion:16
The following analytic identifies potential DLL side-loading instances involving unsigned DLLs mimicking Microsoft signatures. It detects this activity by analyzing Sysmon logs for Event Code 7, where both the `Image` and `ImageLoaded` paths do not match system directories like `system32`, `syswow64`, and `programfiles`. This behavior is significant as adversaries often exploit DLL side-loading to execute malicious code via legitimate processes. If confirmed malicious, this activity could allow attackers to execute arbitrary code, potentially leading to privilege escalation, persistence, and unauthorized access to sensitive information.
Linux Auditd Install Kernel Module Using Modprobe Utility: endpointEndpointNoneversion:11
The following analytic detects the installation of a Linux kernel module using the modprobe utility. It leverages data from Linux Auditd, focusing on process names and command-line executions. This activity is significant because installing a kernel module can indicate an attempt to deploy a rootkit or other malicious kernel-level code, potentially leading to elevated privileges and bypassing security detections. If confirmed malicious, this could allow an attacker to gain persistent, high-level access to the system, compromising its integrity and security.
Linux File Creation In Init Boot Directory: endpointEndpointNoneversion:14
The following analytic detects the creation of files in Linux init boot directories, which are used for automatic execution upon system startup.
It leverages file system logs to identify new files in directories such as /etc/init.d/ and /etc/rc.d/. This activity is significant as it is a common persistence technique used by adversaries, malware authors, and red teamers.
If confirmed malicious, this could allow an attacker to maintain persistence on the compromised host, potentially leading to further exploitation and unauthorized control over the system.
Malicious PowerShell Process - Execution Policy Bypass: endpointEndpointNoneversion:21
The following analytic detects PowerShell processes initiated with parameters that bypass the local execution policy for scripts. It leverages data from Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) agents, focusing on command-line executions containing specific flags like "-ex" or "bypass." This activity is significant because bypassing execution policies is a common tactic used by attackers to run malicious scripts undetected. If confirmed malicious, this could allow an attacker to execute arbitrary code, potentially leading to further system compromise, data exfiltration, or persistent access within the environment.
Detect Large ICMP Traffic: networkEndpointNoneversion:8
The following analytic identifies ICMP traffic to external IP addresses with total bytes (sum of bytes in and bytes out) greater than 1,000 bytes.
It leverages the Network_Traffic data model to detect large ICMP packet that aren't blocked and are directed toward external networks. We use All_Traffic.bytes in the detection to capture variations in inbound versus outbound traffic sizes, as significant discrepancies or unusually large ICMP exchanges can indicate information smuggling, covert communication, or command-and-control (C2) activities.
If validated as malicious, this could signal ICMP tunneling, unauthorized data transfer, or compromised endpoints requiring immediate investigation.
Windows Gdrive Binary Activity: endpointEndpointNoneversion:5
The following analytic detects the execution of the 'gdrive' tool on a Windows host. This tool allows standard users to perform tasks associated with Google Drive via the command line. This is used by actors to stage tools as well as exfiltrate data. The detection leverages data from Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) agents, focusing on process names and command-line executions. If confirmed malicious, this could lead to compromise of systems or sensitive data being stolen.
Linux Gdrive Binary Activity: endpointEndpointNoneversion:5
The following analytic detects the execution of the 'gdrive' tool on a Linux host. This tool allows standard users to perform tasks associated with Google Drive via the command line. This is used by actors to stage tools as well as exfiltrate data. The detection leverages data from Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) agents, focusing on process names and command-line executions. If confirmed malicious, this could lead to compromise of systems or sensitive data being stolen.
Executables Or Script Creation In Suspicious Path: endpointEndpointNoneversion:31
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.
Linux NOPASSWD Entry In Sudoers File: endpointEndpointNoneversion:13
The following analytic detects the addition of NOPASSWD entries to the /etc/sudoers file on Linux systems. It leverages Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) telemetry to identify command lines containing "NOPASSWD:". This activity is significant because it allows users to execute commands with elevated privileges without requiring a password, which can be exploited by adversaries to maintain persistent, privileged access. If confirmed malicious, this could lead to unauthorized privilege escalation, persistent access, and potential compromise of sensitive data and system integrity.
Linux Sudoers Tmp File Creation: endpointEndpointNoneversion:13
The following analytic detects the creation of the "sudoers.tmp" file, which occurs when editing the /etc/sudoers file using visudo or another editor on a Linux platform. This detection leverages filesystem data to identify the presence of "sudoers.tmp" files. Monitoring this activity is crucial as adversaries may exploit it to gain elevated privileges on a compromised host. If confirmed malicious, this activity could allow attackers to modify sudoers configurations, potentially granting them unauthorized access to execute commands as other users, including root, thereby compromising the system's security.
Windows Curl Download to Suspicious Path: endpointEndpointNoneversion:22
The following analytic detects the use of Windows Curl.exe to download
a file to a suspicious location, such as AppData, ProgramData, or Public directories.
It leverages data from Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) agents, focusing on
command-line executions that include the -O or --output options. This activity is
significant because downloading files to these locations can indicate an attempt
to bypass security controls or establish persistence. If confirmed malicious, this
behavior could lead to unauthorized code execution, data exfiltration, or further
compromise of the system.
Linux Service File Created In Systemd Directory: endpointEndpointNoneversion:13
The following analytic detects the creation of suspicious service files within the systemd directories on Linux platforms. It leverages logs containing file name, file path, and process GUID data from endpoints. This activity is significant for a SOC as it may indicate an adversary attempting to establish persistence on a compromised host. If confirmed malicious, this could lead to system compromise or data exfiltration, allowing attackers to maintain control over the system and execute further malicious activities.
Linux Preload Hijack Library Calls: endpointEndpointNoneversion:14
The following analytic detects the use of the LD_PRELOAD environment variable to hijack or hook library functions on a Linux platform. It leverages data from Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) agents, focusing on process execution logs that include command-line details. This activity is significant because adversaries, malware authors, and red teamers commonly use this technique to gain elevated privileges and establish persistence on a compromised machine. If confirmed malicious, this behavior could allow attackers to execute arbitrary code, escalate privileges, and maintain long-term access to the system.
ESXi VIB Acceptance Level Tampering: endpointInfrastructureNoneversion:6
This detection identifies changes to the VIB (vSphere Installation Bundle) acceptance level on an ESXi host. Modifying the acceptance level, such as setting it to CommunitySupported, lowers the system's integrity enforcement and may allow the installation of unsigned or unverified software.
Remote Process Instantiation via WMI: endpointEndpointNoneversion:19
The following analytic detects the execution of wmic.exe with parameters to spawn a process on a remote system. It leverages data from Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) agents, focusing on command-line executions and process telemetry mapped to the `Processes` node of the `Endpoint` data model. This activity is significant as WMI can be abused for lateral movement and remote code execution, often used by adversaries and Red Teams. If confirmed malicious, this could allow attackers to execute arbitrary code on remote systems, facilitating further compromise and lateral spread within the network.
Scheduled Task Deleted Or Created via CMD: endpointEndpointNoneversion:28
The following analytic detects the creation or deletion of scheduled tasks via schtasks.exe when invoked with create or delete flags, specifically focusing on those executions where the process includes additional parameters such as /tr, /sc, or /ru. The detection uses Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) telemetry mapped to the Endpoint data model, and filters out events originating from trusted system paths like C:\Windows\System32 or C:\Program Files. It further narrows results to cases where schtasks.exe is launched by potentially suspicious parent processes such as cmd.exe, wscript.exe, or cscript.exe, and excludes service accounts. This behavior may indicate adversary efforts to gain persistence or evade detection by manipulating scheduled tasks using scripts or command shells. If confirmed malicious, such activity could lead to unauthorized code execution or the removal of monitoring mechanisms on endpoints.
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.
Executables Or Script Creation In Temp Path: endpointEndpointNoneversion:27
The following analytic identifies the creation of executables or scripts in temporary file paths on Windows systems. It leverages the Endpoint.Filesystem data set to detect files with specific extensions (e.g., .exe, .dll, .ps1) created in temporary directories (e.g., \windows\Temp\, \AppData\Local\Temp\).
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.
Windows Service Creation on Remote Endpoint: endpointEndpointNoneversion:12
The following analytic identifies the creation of a Windows Service on a remote endpoint using `sc.exe`. It detects this activity by analyzing process execution logs from Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) agents, focusing on command-line arguments that include remote paths and service creation commands. This behavior is significant because adversaries often exploit the Service Control Manager for lateral movement and remote code execution. If confirmed malicious, this activity could allow attackers to execute arbitrary code on remote systems, potentially leading to further compromise and persistence within the network.
ESXi Firewall Disabled: endpointInfrastructureNoneversion:6
This detection identifies when the ESXi firewall is disabled or set to permissive mode, which can expose the host to unauthorized access and network-based attacks. Such changes are often a precursor to lateral movement, data exfiltration, or the installation of malicious software by a threat actor.
Windows Unusual SysWOW64 Process Run System32 Executable: endpointEndpointNoneversion:7
The following analytic detects an unusual process execution pattern where a process running from C:\Windows\SysWOW64\ attempts to execute a binary from C:\Windows\System32\. In a typical Windows environment, 32-bit processes under SysWOW64 should primarily interact with 32-bit binaries within the same directory. However, an execution flow where a 32-bit process spawns a 64-bit binary from System32 can indicate potential process injection, privilege escalation, evasion techniques, or unauthorized execution hijacking.
Non Firefox Process Access Firefox Profile Dir: endpointEndpointNoneversion:21
The following analytic detects non-Firefox processes accessing the Firefox profile directory, which contains sensitive user data such as login credentials, browsing history, and cookies. It leverages Windows Security Event logs, specifically event code 4663, to monitor access attempts. This activity is significant because it may indicate attempts by malware, such as RATs or trojans, to harvest user information. If confirmed malicious, this behavior could lead to data exfiltration, unauthorized access to user accounts, and further compromise of the affected system.
Detect Large Outbound ICMP Packets: networkEndpoint2025-05-02version:12
This analytic has been deprecated in favour of a better named detection - Detect Large ICMP Traffic. The following analytic identifies outbound ICMP packets with a size larger than 1,000 bytes. It leverages the Network_Traffic data model to detect unusually large ICMP packets that are not blocked and are destined for external IP addresses. This activity is significant because threat actors often use ICMP for command and control communication, and large ICMP packets can indicate data exfiltration or other malicious activities. If confirmed malicious, this could allow attackers to maintain covert communication channels, exfiltrate sensitive data, or further compromise the network.
Windows Suspicious Process File Path: endpointEndpointNoneversion:29
The following analytic identifies processes running from file paths not typically associated with legitimate software. It leverages data from Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) agents, focusing on specific process paths within the Endpoint data model. This activity is significant because adversaries often use unconventional file paths to execute malicious code without requiring administrative privileges. If confirmed malicious, this behavior could indicate an attempt to bypass security controls, leading to unauthorized software execution, potential system compromise, and further malicious activities within the environment.
Windows Anonymous Pipe Activity: endpointEndpointNoneversion:7
The following analytic detects the creation or connection of anonymous pipes for inter-process communication (IPC) within a Windows environment. Anonymous pipes are commonly used by legitimate system processes, services, and applications to transfer data between related processes. However, adversaries frequently abuse anonymous pipes to facilitate stealthy process injection, command-and-control (C2) communication, credential theft, or privilege escalation. This detection monitors for unusual anonymous pipe activity, particularly involving non-system processes, unsigned executables, or unexpected parent-child process relationships. While legitimate use cases exist—such as Windows services, software installers, or security tools—unusual or high-frequency anonymous pipe activity should be investigated for potential malware, persistence mechanisms, or lateral movement techniques.
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.
