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O365 Multiple Failed MFA Requests For User

The following analytic identifies potential "MFA fatigue" attacks targeting Office 365 users by detecting more than nine Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) prompts within a 10-minute timeframe. It leverages O365…

Description

The following analytic identifies potential "MFA fatigue" attacks targeting Office 365 users by detecting more than nine Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) prompts within a 10-minute timeframe. It leverages O365 management activity logs, focusing on Azure Active Directory events with the UserLoginFailed operation, a Success ResultStatus, and an ErrorNumber of 500121. This activity is significant as attackers may exploit MFA fatigue to gain unauthorized access by overwhelming users with repeated MFA requests. If confirmed malicious, this could lead to data breaches, unauthorized data access, or further compromise within the O365 environment. Immediate investigation is crucial.

Detection logic

Detection requirements

Platform
IaaSIdentity ProviderLinuxmacOSOffice SuiteSaaSWindows

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

Log source category
o365_userloginfailed

Known benign triggers

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

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