Windows Computer Account Changed to Domain Controller
Detects a modification to the User Account Control flags for a computer account where the `SERVER_TRUST_ACCOUNT` flag is set. This flag is normally associated with domain controller computer accounts. This activity…
Description
Detects a modification to the User Account Control flags for a computer account where the `SERVER_TRUST_ACCOUNT` flag is set. This flag is normally associated with domain controller computer accounts. This activity may indicate a legitimate domain controller promotion or, if unexpected, an attempt to grant a computer account domain controller-like trust within Active Directory.
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
- windows_event_log_security_4742
Known benign triggers
- Some legitimate administrative activities during domain controller promotions or system updates may trigger this rule. Filter alerts originating from authorized IT personnel or approved change management processes.
MITRE ATT&CK mappings
0 exclusive techniques.This is coverage no other published rule has; it is not this rule's total technique count.
References
| Reference | Cited by |
|---|---|
| docs.microsoft.com/en-us/troubleshoot/windows-server/identity/useraccountcontrol-manipulate-account-properties | 3 |
| docs.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/security/threat-protection/auditing/event-4742 | Only this detection cites it |
From the source
- At source
- Open at source
- Upstream identifier
- f9df6250-fa45-4f62-bc9a-768c60bf99b2
- Tagged by the source as
- Active Directory Privilege EscalationSneaky Active Directory Persistence TricksEndpointendpointSplunk CloudSplunk EnterpriseSplunk Enterprise Securityendpoint
Licence
- Published under
- Apache License 2.0Read the licence
- Attribution
- Required
- Obtained under
- Apache-2.0Read the origin licence
Authorship
- Written by
- Published
- Aug 26, 2026
- Version
- 1