PsExec Utility Execution From Suspicious Locations - PipeName (via pipe_created)

title: PsExec Utility Execution From Suspicious Locations - PipeName (via pipe_created)
id: ccd926f0-800e-5fb9-a083-914e8c5baa3a
status: stable
description: This rule detects PsExec default pipe creation where the image executed is located in an anomalous location. Which could indicate that the tool is being used in an attack
references:
    - https://attack.mitre.org/techniques/T1569/002/
    - https://www.jpcert.or.jp/english/pub/sr/ir_research.html
    - https://jpcertcc.github.io/ToolAnalysisResultSheet
author: Huntrule Team
date: 2026-02-22
tags:
    - attack.execution
    - attack.t1569.002
    - attack.s0029
logsource:
    category: pipe_created
    product: windows
    definition: 'Note that you have to configure logging for Named Pipe Events in Sysmon config (Event ID 17 and Event ID 18). The basic configuration is in popular sysmon configuration (https://github.com/SwiftOnSecurity/sysmon-config), but it is worth verifying. You can also use other repo, e.g. https://github.com/Neo23x0/sysmon-config, https://github.com/olafhartong/sysmon-modular. How to test detection? You can check powershell script from this site https://svch0st.medium.com/guide-to-named-pipes-and-hunting-for-cobalt-strike-pipes-dc46b2c5f575'
detection:
    selection:
        PipeName: '\PSEXESVC'
        Image|contains:
            - ':\Users\Public\'
            - ':\Windows\Temp\'
            - '\AppData\Local\Temp\'
            - '\Desktop\'
            - '\Downloads\'
    condition: selection
falsepositives:
    - Unknown
level: medium