Suspicious Startup Folder Redirection via User Shell Folders by MuddyWater (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 modification of the Startup value under the Explorer User Shell Folders registry key, a persistence technique MuddyWater uses to redirect the startup directory so its payload autoruns at logon. Tampering with this key silently changes where Windows looks for startup items. Detecting the change exposes stealthy persistence.

Reporting behind it

Related detections9 linkedT1547.001 — drag to rearrange

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Suspicious Startup Folder Redirection via User Shell Folders by MuddyWater (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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