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ASL AWS Multi-Factor Authentication Disabled

The following analytic detects attempts to disable multi-factor authentication (MFA) for an AWS IAM user. It leverages Amazon Security Lake logs, specifically monitoring for `DeleteVirtualMFADevice` or…

Description

The following analytic detects attempts to disable multi-factor authentication (MFA) for an AWS IAM user. It leverages Amazon Security Lake logs, specifically monitoring for `DeleteVirtualMFADevice` or `DeactivateMFADevice` API operations. This activity is significant as disabling MFA can indicate an adversary attempting to weaken account security to maintain persistence using a compromised account. If confirmed malicious, this action could allow attackers to retain access to the AWS environment without detection, potentially leading to unauthorized access to sensitive resources and prolonged compromise.

Detection logic

Detection requirements

Platform
IaaSIdentity ProviderLinuxmacOSOffice SuitePRESaaSWindows

The rule states no platform. This is derived from the 3 ATT&CK techniques it maps to.

Log source category
asl_aws_cloudtrail

Known benign triggers

  • AWS Administrators may disable MFA but it is highly unlikely for this event to occur without prior notice to the company

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