Linux Iptables Firewall Modification
The following analytic detects suspicious command-line activity that modifies the iptables firewall settings on a Linux machine. It leverages data from Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) agents, focusing on…
Description
The following analytic detects suspicious command-line activity that modifies the iptables firewall settings on a Linux machine. It leverages data from Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) agents, focusing on specific command patterns that alter firewall rules to accept traffic on certain TCP ports. This activity is significant as it can indicate malware, such as CyclopsBlink, modifying firewall settings to allow communication with a Command and Control (C2) server. If confirmed malicious, this could enable attackers to maintain persistent access and exfiltrate data, posing a severe security risk.
Detection logic
Detection requirements
- Platform
- ESXiLinuxmacOSNetwork DevicesWindows
The rule states no platform. This is derived from the ATT&CK technique it maps to.
- Log source category
- sysmon_for_linux_eventid_1
Known benign triggers
- administrator may do this commandline for auditing and testing purposes. In this scenario filter is 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 |
|---|---|
| www.ncsc.gov.uk/files/Cyclops-Blink-Malware-Analysis-Report.pdf | 3 |
| www.trendmicro.com/en_us/research/22/c/cyclops-blink-sets-sights-on-asus-routers--.html | 4from 2 sources |
From the source
- At source
- Open at source
- Upstream identifier
- 309d59dc-1e1b-49b2-9800-7cf18d12f7b7
- Tagged by the source as
- Backdoor PingpongChina-Nexus Threat ActivityCyclops BlinkSandworm ToolsEndpointendpointSplunk CloudSplunk EnterpriseSplunk Enterprise Securityendpoint
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