Suspicious Hiding Files with Attrib.exe (via process_creation)

title: Suspicious Hiding Files with Attrib.exe (via process_creation)
id: 2521f379-e276-59d9-80bf-0dd58930e46b
status: stable
description: This rule detects use of attrib.exe to hide files from users.
references:
    - https://attack.mitre.org/techniques/T1564/001/
    - https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/unit42-sure-ill-take-new-combojack-malware-alters-clipboards-steal-cryptocurrency/
    - https://www.uptycs.com/blog/lolbins-are-no-laughing-matter
author: Huntrule Team
date: 2026-07-11
tags:
    - attack.stealth
    - attack.t1564.001
logsource:
    category: process_creation
    product: windows
detection:
    selection_img:
        - Image|endswith: '\attrib.exe'
        - OriginalFileName: 'ATTRIB.EXE'
    selection_cli:
        CommandLine|contains: ' +h '
    filter_main_msiexec:
        CommandLine|contains: '\desktop.ini '
    filter_optional_intel:
        ParentImage|endswith: '\cmd.exe'
        CommandLine: '+R +H +S +A \\\*.cui'
        ParentCommandLine: 'C:\\WINDOWS\\system32\\\*.bat'
    condition: all of selection_* and not 1 of filter_main_* and not 1 of filter_optional_*
falsepositives:
    - Unknown
level: medium