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Windows MSIExec Unregister DLLRegisterServer

The following analytic detects the use of msiexec.exe with the /z switch parameter, which is used to unload DLLRegisterServer. This detection leverages data from Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) agents, focusing…

Description

The following analytic detects the use of msiexec.exe with the /z switch parameter, which is used to unload DLLRegisterServer. This detection leverages data from Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) agents, focusing on process execution logs, including command-line arguments. This activity is significant because unloading DLLRegisterServer can be indicative of an attempt to deregister a DLL, potentially disrupting legitimate services or hiding malicious activity. If confirmed malicious, this could allow an attacker to disable security controls, evade detection, or disrupt system functionality, leading to further compromise of the environment.

Detection logic

Detection requirements

Platform
Windows

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

Known benign triggers

  • This analytic will need to be tuned for your environment based on legitimate usage of msiexec.exe. Filter as needed.

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