Malicious Tampering of Linux Authentication Log var log secure (via process_creation)

ATT&CK techniques

Recon
Resource Dev
Initial Access
Execution
Persistence
Priv Esc
Defense Evasion
Cred Access
Discovery
Lateral Movement
Collection
C2
Exfiltration
Impact

What it detects

This rule detects commands that delete, truncate, or shred the Linux authentication log at /var/log/secure. In the Group-IB XMRig covert Linux PAM abuse campaign the attacker tampers with /var/log/secure to erase evidence of unauthorized su and login activity. Clearing this log to hide tracks is a high confidence indicator of active anti-forensics.

Reporting behind it

Related detections9 linkedT1685.006 — drag to rearrange

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Malicious Tampering of Linux Authentication Log var log secure (via process_creation)

Pivot detection · T1685.006 · 9 related

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