Suspicious Persistence via Windows NT CurrentVersion Windows Load Value (via registry_set)

ATT&CK techniques

Persistence → Priv Esc

Recon
Resource Dev
Initial Access
Execution
Persistence
- T1547.001Registry Run Keys / Startup Folder
Priv Esc
- T1547.001Registry Run Keys / Startup Folder
Defense Evasion
Cred Access
Discovery
Lateral Movement
Collection
C2
Exfiltration
Impact

What it detects

This rule detects Confucius writing to the legacy Windows load value under the HKCU Windows NT CurrentVersion Windows key which auto starts the copied Swom.exe loader at logon. The load value is an uncommon and abused autostart location. Any modification pointing to an executable is suspicious.

Reporting behind it

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Suspicious Persistence via Windows NT CurrentVersion Windows Load Value (via registry_set)

Pivot detection · T1547.001 · 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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