AWS Multiple Failed MFA Requests For User
The following analytic identifies multiple failed multi-factor authentication (MFA) requests to an AWS Console for a single user. It leverages AWS CloudTrail logs, specifically the `additionalEventData` field, to…
Description
The following analytic identifies multiple failed multi-factor authentication (MFA) requests to an AWS Console for a single user. It leverages AWS CloudTrail logs, specifically the `additionalEventData` field, to detect more than 10 failed MFA prompts within 5 minutes. This activity is significant as it may indicate an adversary attempting to bypass MFA by bombarding the user with repeated authentication requests. If confirmed malicious, this could lead to unauthorized access to the AWS environment, potentially compromising sensitive data and resources.
Detection logic
Detection requirements
- Platform
- IaaSIdentity ProviderLinuxmacOSOffice SuitePRESaaSWindows
The rule states no platform. This is derived from the 2 ATT&CK techniques it maps to.
- Log source category
- aws_cloudtrail_consolelogin
Known benign triggers
- Multiple Failed MFA requests may also be a sign of authentication or application issues. Filter as needed.
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 |
|---|---|
| attack.mitre.org/techniques/T1621/ | 13 |
| aws.amazon.com/what-is/mfa/ | 5 |
From the source
- At source
- Open at source
- Upstream identifier
- 1fece617-e614-4329-9e61-3ba228c0f353
- Tagged by the source as
- AWS Identity and Access Management Account TakeoverAWS AccountcloudSplunk CloudSplunk EnterpriseSplunk Enterprise Securitythreat
Licence
- Published under
- Apache License 2.0Read the licence
- Attribution
- Required
- Obtained under
- Apache-2.0Read the origin licence
Authorship
- Written by
- Published
- Aug 26, 2026
- Version
- 1