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Linux Auditd Sudo Or Su Execution

The following analytic detects the execution of the "sudo" or "su" command on a Linux operating system. It leverages data from Linux Auditd, focusing on process names and parent process names. This activity is…

Description

The following analytic detects the execution of the "sudo" or "su" command on a Linux operating system. It leverages data from Linux Auditd, focusing on process names and parent process names. This activity is significant because "sudo" and "su" commands are commonly used by adversaries to elevate privileges, potentially leading to unauthorized access or control over the system. If confirmed malicious, this activity could allow attackers to execute commands with root privileges, leading to severe security breaches, data exfiltration, or further system compromise.

Detection logic

Detection requirements

Platform
LinuxmacOS

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

Log source category
linux_auditd_proctitle

Known benign triggers

  • Administrator or network operator can execute this command. Please update the filter macros to remove false positives.

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