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Windows Unusual Count Of Invalid Users Failed To Auth Using NTLM

The following analytic identifies a source endpoint failing to authenticate with multiple invalid users using the NTLM protocol. It leverages EventCode 4776 and calculates the standard deviation for each host, using…

Description

The following analytic identifies a source endpoint failing to authenticate with multiple invalid users using the NTLM protocol. It leverages EventCode 4776 and calculates the standard deviation for each host, using the 3-sigma rule to detect anomalies. This behavior is significant as it may indicate a Password Spraying attack, where an adversary attempts to gain initial access or elevate privileges. If confirmed malicious, this activity could lead to unauthorized access or privilege escalation, posing a significant threat to the Active Directory environment. This detection is focused on domain controllers.

Detection logic

Detection requirements

Platform
ContainersESXiIaaSIdentity ProviderLinuxmacOSNetwork DevicesOffice SuiteSaaSWindows

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

Known benign triggers

  • A host failing to authenticate with multiple invalid domain users is not a common behavior for legitimate systems. Possible false positive scenarios include but are not limited to vulnerability scanners and missconfigured systems. If this detection triggers on a host other than a Domain Controller, the behavior could represent a password spraying attack against the host's local accounts.

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