T1218 System Binary Proxy Execution Mappings

Adversaries may bypass process and/or signature-based defenses by proxying execution of malicious content with signed, or otherwise trusted, binaries. Binaries used in this technique are often Microsoft-signed files, indicating that they have been either downloaded from Microsoft or are already native in the operating system.(Citation: LOLBAS Project) Binaries signed with trusted digital certificates can typically execute on Windows systems protected by digital signature validation. Several Microsoft signed binaries that are default on Windows installations can be used to proxy execution of other files or commands.

Similarly, on Linux systems adversaries may abuse trusted binaries such as <code>split</code> to proxy execution of malicious commands.(Citation: split man page)(Citation: GTFO split)

View in MITRE ATT&CK®

Mappings

Capability ID Capability Description Mapping Type ATT&CK ID ATT&CK Name Notes
intel-tdt Intel Threat Detection Technology CrowdStrike AMS T1218 System Binary Proxy Execution
Comments
Intel Threat Detection Technology (TDT), combined with CrowdStrike Falcon Accelerated Memory Scanning (CAMS), enhances cybersecurity defenses by enabling faster, real-time detection of System Binary Proxy Execution techniques. This integrated solution strengthens CrowdStrike Falcon, enabling the detection and mitigation of cyber threats earlier in the kill chain, while minimizing system performance impact. System Binary Proxy Execution (T1218) involves adversaries executing malicious code through legitimate system binaries or processes to evade detection. Attackers often use system tools like rundll32.exe, wmic.exe, or regsvr32.exe as proxies to launch malicious payloads, leveraging trusted binaries to bypass security controls. Intel TDT provides deep visibility into program execution, memory access, and control flow, allowing security teams to detect abnormal behaviors, such as unusual interactions with trusted system binaries, that could indicate proxy execution or malicious activity.
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