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InformationalSplunk security contentRaven Tait +1

Linux Possible System Binary Backdoor

The following analytic detects the creation or overwrite of commonly targeted Linux system binaries such as cat, ls, cp, ps, mv, netstat, ss, and lsof. Adversaries may replace these utilities with backdoored versions…

Description

The following analytic detects the creation or overwrite of commonly targeted Linux system binaries such as cat, ls, cp, ps, mv, netstat, ss, and lsof. Adversaries may replace these utilities with backdoored versions to hide malicious activity, harvest credentials, or maintain persistence while appearing to use legitimate system tools. This technique is associated with rootkit deployment and post-exploitation frameworks such as PANIX.

Detection logic

Detection requirements

Platform
ContainersESXiLinuxmacOSNetwork DevicesWindows

The rule states no platform. This is derived from the 2 ATT&CK techniques it maps to.

Log source category
sysmon_for_linux_eventid_11

Known benign triggers

  • Legitimate system updates or package managers may create or overwrite system binaries during normal operations. Filter for known update processes and package management activity to reduce noise.

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