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Cisco ASA - Device File Copy Activity

This analytic detects file copy activity on Cisco ASA devices via CLI or ASDM. Adversaries may copy device files including configurations, logs, packet captures, or system files for reconnaissance, credential…

Description

This analytic detects file copy activity on Cisco ASA devices via CLI or ASDM. Adversaries may copy device files including configurations, logs, packet captures, or system files for reconnaissance, credential extraction, or data exfiltration. While legitimate file operations occur during backups and maintenance, unauthorized copies may indicate malicious activity. The detection monitors for command execution events (message ID 111008 or 111010) containing copy commands targeting running-config, startup-config, packet capture files, or other system files from disk0:, flash:, system:, or capture: locations. Investigate unexpected file copies, especially from non-administrative accounts, during unusual hours, or when combined with other suspicious activities.

Detection logic

Detection requirements

Platform
ESXiIaaSLinuxmacOSNetwork DevicesOffice SuiteSaaSWindows

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

Log source category
cisco_asa_logs

Known benign triggers

  • Legitimate configuration exports may occur during normal administrative activities. These events should be verified and investigated.

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