Windows System File on Disk
The following analytic detects the creation of new .sys files on disk. It leverages the Endpoint.Filesystem data model to identify and log instances where .sys files are written to the filesystem. This activity is…
Description
The following analytic detects the creation of new .sys files on disk. It leverages the Endpoint.Filesystem data model to identify and log instances where .sys files are written to the filesystem. This activity is significant because .sys files are often used as kernel mode drivers, and their unauthorized creation can indicate malicious activity such as rootkit installation. If confirmed malicious, this could allow an attacker to gain kernel-level access, leading to full system compromise, persistent control, and the ability to bypass security mechanisms.
Detection logic
Detection requirements
- Platform
- ContainersLinuxmacOSWindows
The rule states no platform. This is derived from the ATT&CK technique it maps to.
- Log source category
- sysmon_eventid_11
Known benign triggers
- False positives will be present. Filter as needed.
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 |
|---|---|
| redcanary.com/blog/tracking-driver-inventory-to-expose-rootkits/ | 5 |
From the source
- At source
- Open at source
- Upstream identifier
- 993ce99d-9cdd-42c7-a2cf-733d5954e5a6
- Tagged by the source as
- CISA AA22-264ACrypto StealerWindows DriversEndpointendpointSplunk 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