Windows Computer Account Created by Computer Account
The following analytic identifies a computer account creating a new computer account with a specific Service Principal Name (SPN) "RestrictedKrbHost". This detection leverages Windows Security Event Logs,…
Description
The following analytic identifies a computer account creating a new computer account with a specific Service Principal Name (SPN) "RestrictedKrbHost". This detection leverages Windows Security Event Logs, specifically EventCode 4741, to identify such activities. This behavior is significant as it may indicate an attempt to establish unauthorized Kerberos authentication channels, potentially leading to lateral movement or privilege escalation. If confirmed malicious, this activity could allow an attacker to impersonate services, access sensitive information, or maintain persistence 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
- windows_event_log_security_4741
Known benign triggers
- It is possible third party applications may have a computer account that adds computer accounts, filtering may be required.
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/openspecs/windows_protocols/ms-kile/445e4499-7e49-4f2a-8d82-aaf2d1ee3c47 | Only this detection cites it |
| github.com/Dec0ne/KrbRelayUp | 9from 3 sources |
From the source
- At source
- Open at source
- Upstream identifier
- 97a8dc5f-8a7c-4fed-9e3e-ec407fd0268a
- Tagged by the source as
- Active Directory Kerberos AttacksLocal Privilege Escalation With KrbRelayUpEndpointendpointSplunk 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