DNS Query Length With High Standard Deviation
The following analytic identifies DNS queries with unusually large lengths by computing the standard deviation of query lengths and filtering those exceeding two times the standard deviation. It leverages DNS query…
Description
The following analytic identifies DNS queries with unusually large lengths by computing the standard deviation of query lengths and filtering those exceeding two times the standard deviation. It leverages DNS query data from the Network_Resolution data model, focusing on the length of the domain names being resolved. This activity is significant as unusually long DNS queries can indicate data exfiltration or command-and-control communication attempts. If confirmed malicious, this activity could allow attackers to stealthily transfer data or maintain persistent communication channels within the network.
Detection logic
Detection requirements
- Platform
- ESXiLinuxmacOSNetwork DevicesWindows
The rule states no platform. This is derived from the ATT&CK technique it maps to.
- Log source category
- sysmon_eventid_22
Known benign triggers
- It's possible there can be long domain names that are legitimate.
MITRE ATT&CK mappings
0 exclusive techniques.This is coverage no other published rule has; it is not this rule's total technique count.
No references are available for this detection.
From the source
- At source
- Open at source
- Upstream identifier
- 1a67f15a-f4ff-4170-84e9-08cf6f75d6f5
- Tagged by the source as
- Command And ControlHidden Cobra MalwareSuspicious DNS TrafficEndpointnetworkSplunk CloudSplunk EnterpriseSplunk Enterprise Securitynetwork
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