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InformationalSplunk security contentRaven Tait +1

Windows Powershell Commands from DNS TXT

The following analytic detects execution of powershell commands retrieved from a remote DNS TXT query response. The use of the DNS TXT record for C2 is an uncommon method for malware that is resilient due to the need…

Description

The following analytic detects execution of powershell commands retrieved from a remote DNS TXT query response. The use of the DNS TXT record for C2 is an uncommon method for malware that is resilient due to the need for DNS in normal networking activities. This can ensure that their C2 is not blocked by any firewalls.

Detection logic

Detection requirements

Platform
ESXiLinuxmacOSNetwork DevicesWindows

The rule states no platform. This is derived from the 2 ATT&CK techniques it maps to.

Log source category
powershell_script_block_logging_4104

Known benign triggers

  • While false positives should be unlikely given the uncommon combination of PowerShell execution and DNS TXT query responses. Due to the nature of Script Block Logging, it is possible that legitimate strings or unrelated commands might all match at once. Apply appropriate exclusions for those edge cases.

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