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MediumSplunk security contentMichael Haag +1

Suspicious Rundll32 StartW

The following analytic identifies the execution of rundll32.exe with the DLL function names "Start" and "StartW," commonly associated with Cobalt Strike payloads. This detection leverages data from Endpoint Detection…

Description

The following analytic identifies the execution of rundll32.exe with the DLL function names "Start" and "StartW," commonly associated with Cobalt Strike payloads. This detection leverages data from Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) agents, focusing on command-line executions and process metadata. This activity is significant as it often indicates the presence of malicious payloads, such as Cobalt Strike, which can lead to unauthorized code execution. If confirmed malicious, this activity could allow attackers to inject shellcode, escalate privileges, and maintain persistence within the environment.

Detection logic

Detection requirements

Platform
Windows

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

  • Although unlikely, some legitimate applications may use Start as a function and call it via the command line. Filter as needed.

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