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Windows Hijack Execution Flow Version Dll Side Load

The following analytic detects a process loading a version.dll file from a directory other than %windir%\system32 or %windir%\syswow64. This detection leverages Sysmon EventCode 7 to identify instances where an…

Description

The following analytic detects a process loading a version.dll file from a directory other than %windir%\system32 or %windir%\syswow64. This detection leverages Sysmon EventCode 7 to identify instances where an unsigned or improperly located version.dll is loaded. This activity is significant as it is a common technique used in ransomware and APT malware campaigns, including Brute Ratel C4, to execute malicious code via DLL side loading. If confirmed malicious, this could allow attackers to execute arbitrary code, maintain persistence, and potentially compromise the target host.

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
sysmon_eventid_7

Known benign triggers

  • No false positives have been identified at this time.

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