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Github Self-Hosted Runner Execution

Detects GitHub self-hosted runners executing workflows on local infrastructure that could be abused for persistence and code execution. Shai-Hulud is an npm supply chain worm targeting CI/CD environments. It installs…

Description

Detects GitHub self-hosted runners executing workflows on local infrastructure that could be abused for persistence and code execution. Shai-Hulud is an npm supply chain worm targeting CI/CD environments. It installs runners on compromised systems to maintain access after credential theft, leveraging their access to secrets and internal networks.

Detection logic

Detection requirements

Platform
ESXiLinuxmacOSNetwork DevicesWindows

The rule states no platform. This is derived from the 2 ATT&CK techniques it maps to.

Log source product
windows
Log source category
process_creation

Known benign triggers

  • Authorized runner deployments by DevOps/Platform teams following change management
  • Installation via expected/known configuration management tools (reflected mostly as parent process name)
  • Legitimate GitHub self-hosted runner installations on designated CI/CD infrastructure
  • Scheduled runner updates or reconfigurations on existing build agents
  • Self-hosted runners that follow expected/known naming patterns

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