Windows RDP Cache File Deletion
This detection identifies the deletion of RDP bitmap cache files—specifically .bmc and .bin files—typically stored in the user profile under the Terminal Server Client\Cache directory. These files are created by the…
Description
This detection identifies the deletion of RDP bitmap cache files—specifically .bmc and .bin files—typically stored in the user profile under the Terminal Server Client\Cache directory. These files are created by the native Windows Remote Desktop Client (mstsc.exe) and store graphical elements from remote sessions to improve performance. Deleting these files may indicate an attempt to remove forensic evidence of RDP usage. While rare in legitimate user behavior, this action is commonly associated with defense evasion techniques used by attackers or red teamers who wish to hide traces of interactive remote access. When observed in conjunction with recent logon activity, RDP session indicators, or script execution, this behavior should be treated as potentially malicious. Monitoring for deletion of these files provides valuable visibility into anti-forensic actions that often follow lateral movement or hands-on-keyboard activity.
Detection logic
Detection requirements
- Platform
- ESXiLinuxmacOSWindows
The rule states no platform. This is derived from the ATT&CK technique it maps to.
- Log source category
- sysmon_eventid_23sysmon_eventid_26
Known benign triggers
- False positives will be present, filter as needed or restrict to critical assets on the perimeter.
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 |
|---|---|
| medium.com/@bonguides25/how-to-clear-rdp-connections-history-in-windows-cf0ffb67f344 | 10 |
| thelocalh0st.github.io/posts/rdp/ | 10 |
From the source
- At source
- Open at source
- Upstream identifier
- f3e86ff3-b1f9-4382-8924-6913385f1019
- Tagged by the source as
- Windows RDP Artifacts and Defense EvasionEndpointendpointSplunk 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