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Windows Cabinet File Extraction Via Expand

Detects usage of expand.exe to extract Microsoft Cabinet (CAB) archives, with emphasis on extractions into `C:\\ProgramData` or similar staging locations. In recent APT37 activity, a CAB payload (e.g., wonder.cab)…

Description

Detects usage of expand.exe to extract Microsoft Cabinet (CAB) archives, with emphasis on extractions into `C:\\ProgramData` or similar staging locations. In recent APT37 activity, a CAB payload (e.g., wonder.cab) was expanded into ProgramData prior to persistence and execution. This behavior is a strong signal for ingress tool transfer and staging of payloads.

Detection logic

Detection requirements

Platform
ESXiLinuxmacOSNetwork DevicesWindows

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

Known benign triggers

  • Legitimate software deployment or administrators may use expand.exe for local file extraction. Filter by approved deployment tools, signed parent processes, and sanctioned paths.

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