HackTool - NetExec Execution
Detects execution of the hacktool NetExec. NetExec (formerly CrackMapExec) is a widely used post-exploitation tool designed for Active Directory penetration testing and network enumeration In enterprise environments,…
Description
Detects execution of the hacktool NetExec. NetExec (formerly CrackMapExec) is a widely used post-exploitation tool designed for Active Directory penetration testing and network enumeration In enterprise environments, the use of NetExec is considered suspicious or potentially malicious because it enables attackers to enumerate hosts, exploit network services, and move laterally across systems. Threat actors and red teams commonly use NetExec to identify vulnerable systems, harvest credentials, and execute commands remotely.
Detection logic
Detection requirements
- Platform
- ESXiIaaSLinuxmacOSNetwork 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
- Legitimate use of NetExec by security professionals or system administrators for network assessment and management.
MITRE ATT&CK mappings
0 exclusive techniques.This is coverage no other published rule has; it is not this rule's total technique count.
References
| Reference | Cited by |
|---|---|
| github.com/Pennyw0rth/NetExec | 2 |
| thedfirreport.com/2025/12/17/cats-got-your-files-lynx-ransomware/ | Only this detection cites it |
| www.netexec.wiki | 3from 2 sources |
From the source
- At source
- Open at source
- Upstream identifier
- 7638e5fe-600c-4289-a968-f49dd537ec7d
- Tagged by the source as
- attack.discoveryattack.lateral-movement
Licence
- Published under
- Detection Rule License 1.1Read the licence
- Attribution
- Required
Authorship
- Written by
- Published
- Aug 26, 2026
- Version
- 1