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AWS EC2 Multiple SSH Public Keys Uploaded by a Single Identity

Detects an AWS identity making 10 or more successful EC2 Instance ConnectSendSSHPublicKey API calls within the configured search interval. EC2 Instance Connect temporarily makes an SSH public key available to an…

Description

Detects an AWS identity making 10 or more successful EC2 Instance ConnectSendSSHPublicKey API calls within the configured search interval. EC2 Instance Connect temporarily makes an SSH public key available to an operating-system user on an EC2 instance. A burst of these calls may indicate automated attempts to establish access or move laterally using compromised AWS credentials.

Detection logic

Detection requirements

Platform
ESXiIaaSLinuxmacOS

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

Log source category
aws_cloudtrail

Known benign triggers

  • Administrators and automated orchestration may legitimately use EC2 Instance Connect repeatedly during fleet administration, troubleshooting, or ephemeral-access workflows. Review the AWS identity, source addresses, user agent, target instances, target operating-system users, and whether the activity corresponds to an approved administrative process.

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