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InformationalSplunk security contentTeoderick Contreras +2

Suspicious Copy on System32

The following analytic detects potentially suspicious file copy operations targeting the System32 or SysWow64 directories as source, often indicative of malicious activity. It leverages data from Endpoint Detection…

Description

The following analytic detects potentially suspicious file copy operations targeting the System32 or SysWow64 directories as source, often indicative of malicious activity. It leverages data from Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) agents, focusing on activity initiated by command-line tools like cmd.exe or PowerShell. This behavior is significant as it may indicate an attempt to evade defenses by copying an existing binary from the system directory and renaming it. If confirmed malicious, this activity could allow an attacker to execute code undetected and potentially leading to system compromise or further lateral movement within the network.

Detection logic

Detection requirements

Platform
LinuxmacOSWindows

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

Log source category
crowdstrike_processrollup2sysmon_eventid_1windows_event_log_security_4688

Known benign triggers

  • Copying files from System directories can happen for multiple admin reasons, allbeit rare without approval. Apply additional filters where needed.

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