MSSQL Server Process Spawning Command Shell via xp_cmdshell

ATT&CK techniques

Initial Access → Execution

Recon
Resource Dev
Initial Access
- T1190Exploit Public-Facing Application
Execution
- T1059.001PowerShell
- T1059.003Windows Command Shell
Persistence
Priv Esc
Defense Evasion
Cred Access
Discovery
Lateral Movement
Collection
C2
Exfiltration
Impact

What it detects

This rule detects the SQL Server process sqlservr.exe spawning cmd.exe or PowerShell, the direct signature of xp_cmdshell abuse on an exposed database server. Huntress observed operators chaining bcp data staging and local account creation from this shell during MSSQL intrusions. A database engine launching command interpreters is not normal behavior and indicates code execution through the SQL layer.

Reporting behind it

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MSSQL Server Process Spawning Command Shell via xp_cmdshell

Pivot detection · T1059.001 · 9 related

Detection content is published as a reviewed draft. Tune thresholds and exclusions against your own telemetry before enabling this rule for alerting.

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