Linux MOTD Script Added
The following analytic detects the creation of a file within the /etc/update-motd.d directory. This is used to add scripts that run with Message of the Day (MOTD) when a user logs in. This can be used by attackers…
Description
The following analytic detects the creation of a file within the /etc/update-motd.d directory. This is used to add scripts that run with Message of the Day (MOTD) when a user logs in. This can be used by attackers for persistence if it contains malicious code.
Detection logic
Detection requirements
- Platform
- ESXiLinuxmacOSNetwork DevicesWindows
The rule states no platform. This is derived from the 3 ATT&CK techniques it maps to.
- Log source category
- sysmon_for_linux_eventid_11
Known benign triggers
- Legitimate system administrators may add or modify MOTD scripts for valid operational purposes such as displaying system information or login banners. Filter based on known administrative activity and authorized users.
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 |
|---|---|
| github.com/Aegrah/PANIX | 8 |
From the source
- At source
- Open at source
- Upstream identifier
- 6dd14256-559b-4364-99d8-0968407b8074
- Tagged by the source as
- Linux Persistence TechniquesLinux Post-ExploitationEndpointendpointSplunk 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