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Detect Software Download To Network Device

The following analytic identifies unauthorized software downloads to network devices via TFTP, FTP, or SSH/SCP. It detects this activity by analyzing network traffic events on specific ports (69, 21, 22) from devices…

Description

The following analytic identifies unauthorized software downloads to network devices via TFTP, FTP, or SSH/SCP. It detects this activity by analyzing network traffic events on specific ports (69, 21, 22) from devices categorized as network, router, or switch. This activity is significant because adversaries may exploit netbooting to load unauthorized operating systems, potentially compromising network integrity. If confirmed malicious, this could lead to unauthorized control over network devices, enabling further attacks, data exfiltration, or persistent access within the network.

Detection logic

Detection requirements

Platform
Network Devices

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

Known benign triggers

  • This search will also report any legitimate attempts of software downloads to network devices as well as outbound SSH sessions from network devices.

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