Malicious Axios npm Compromise Run Key Persistence as MicrosoftUpdate (via registry_set)

ATT&CK techniques

Initial Access → Priv Esc

Recon
Resource Dev
Initial Access
- T1195.001Compromise Software Dependencies and Development Tools
Execution
Persistence
- T1547.001Registry Run Keys / Startup Folder
Priv Esc
- T1547.001Registry Run Keys / Startup Folder
Defense Evasion
Cred Access
Discovery
Lateral Movement
Collection
C2
Exfiltration
Impact

What it detects

This rule detects creation of a HKCU Run key value named MicrosoftUpdate which the trojanized axios npm versions 1.14.1 and 0.30.4 use to persist their second-stage Windows RAT. The masquerade as a Microsoft update in the per-user Run key combined with an untrusted payload path indicates supply-chain implant persistence.

Reporting behind it

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Malicious Axios npm Compromise Run Key Persistence as MicrosoftUpdate (via registry_set)

Pivot detection · T1547.001 · 9 related

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