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InformationalSplunk security contentTeoderick Contreras +1

Linux Possible Access Or Modification Of sshd Config File

The following analytic detects suspicious access or modification of the sshd_config file on Linux systems. It leverages data from Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) agents, focusing on command-line executions…

Description

The following analytic detects suspicious access or modification of the sshd_config file on Linux systems. It leverages data from Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) agents, focusing on command-line executions involving processes like "cat," "nano," "vim," and "vi" accessing the sshd_config file. This activity is significant because unauthorized changes to sshd_config can allow threat actors to redirect port connections or use unauthorized keys, potentially compromising the system. If confirmed malicious, this could lead to unauthorized access, privilege escalation, or persistent backdoor access, posing a severe security risk.

Detection logic

Detection requirements

Platform
ESXiIaaSLinuxmacOSNetwork Devices

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 or network operator can use this commandline for automation purposes. Please update the filter macros to remove false positives.

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