Back to results

GCP Multiple Failed MFA Requests For User

The following analytic detects multiple failed multi-factor authentication (MFA) requests for a single user within a Google Cloud Platform (GCP) tenant. It triggers when 10 or more MFA prompts fail within a 5-minute…

Description

The following analytic detects multiple failed multi-factor authentication (MFA) requests for a single user within a Google Cloud Platform (GCP) tenant. It triggers when 10 or more MFA prompts fail within a 5-minute window, using Google Workspace login failure events. This behavior is significant as it may indicate an adversary attempting to bypass MFA by bombarding the user with repeated authentication requests. If confirmed malicious, this activity could lead to unauthorized access, allowing attackers to compromise accounts and potentially escalate privileges within the GCP environment.

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
google_workspace

Known benign triggers

  • Multiple Failed MFA requests may also be a sign of authentication or application issues. Filter as needed.

Detections can measure how the public catalogue is used — which detections people look for, and which pages bring them here. It sets a cookie that recognises this browser for 180 days. It is never linked to an account and never follows you to other sites. Privacy notice