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InformationalSplunk security contentRaven Tait +1

Windows PuTTY Suite Utility Execution

This analytic detects the execution of programs associated with the PuTTY SSH client suite, including putty.exe, pscp.exe, plink.exe, psftp.exe, and puttygen.exe. This activity is significant because these tools can…

Description

This analytic detects the execution of programs associated with the PuTTY SSH client suite, including putty.exe, pscp.exe, plink.exe, psftp.exe, and puttygen.exe. This activity is significant because these tools can be used to establish unauthorized remote connections, transfer files, or execute commands on remote systems. If identified in an unusual context, such as non-administrative accounts or unexpected systems, it may indicate attempts to bypass security controls, perform lateral movement, or exfiltrate data, which could lead to further network compromise.

Detection logic

Detection requirements

Platform
ESXiLinuxmacOS

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

Log source category
crowdstrike_processrollup2sysmon_eventid_1windows_event_log_security_4688

Known benign triggers

  • Some legitimate users may run PuTTY for remote administration or secure file transfers. Filter alerts to exclude approved administrative activities.

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