Suspicious Run Key Persistence Pointing to WScript via PhantomVAI Loader (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 a Run registry key persistence entry whose value invokes WScript, the persistence mechanism used by the PhantomVAI loader to re-launch its script stage at logon. Registering a script host under Run ensures the loader survives reboots. Detecting this write surfaces persistent infostealer staging on the host.

Reporting behind it

Related detections9 linkedT1547.001 — drag to rearrange

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Suspicious Run Key Persistence Pointing to WScript via PhantomVAI Loader (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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