Masquerading SSLoad PhantomLoader DLL Execution via Regsvr32 Silent Load from AppData (via process_creation)

ATT&CK techniques

Defense Evasion

Recon
Resource Dev
Initial Access
Execution
Persistence
Priv Esc
Defense Evasion
- T1218.010Regsvr32
Cred Access
Discovery
Lateral Movement
Collection
C2
Exfiltration
Impact

What it detects

This rule detects regsvr32.exe silently registering the MenuEx.dll PhantomLoader component that masquerades as a 360 Total Security module in the SSLoad infection chain launched from an MSI installer. Adversaries use regsvr32 as a trusted LOLBin to load the first-stage loader without a visible window, making this command pattern a strong indicator of the delivery stage.

Reporting behind it

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Malicious Regsvr32 ShellExec_RunDLL Proxy Execution (via process_creation)

Suspicious DLL Execution via Regsvr32 DllInstall of dat File

Malicious Xctdoor XcLoader Execution via Regsvr32 AppX Path Abuse (via process_creation)

Masquerading SSLoad PhantomLoader DLL Execution via Regsvr32 Silent Load from AppData (via process_creation)

Pivot detection · T1218.010 · 9 related

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