DFIR Global

The MITRE ATT&CK Execution (TA0002) tactic focuses on how adversaries run malicious code on target systems to achieve their objectives. Techniques range from using legitimate tools like PowerShell, Unix commands, and scripts, to launching malicious payloads through malware or exploiting applications. Attackers may execute these commands locally or remotely, often in combination with other tactics like persistence or privilege escalation. The ultimate goal is to take control of systems or perform unauthorized actions, such as data exfiltration or disruption.

Key Techniques:

1. Command-Line Interface (CLI): Attackers use built-in system interfaces, like PowerShell, Command Prompt (Windows), or Bash (Linux/Unix), to execute commands or scripts. These interfaces allow adversaries to perform a wide range of actions, such as downloading and executing malware, accessing system data, or interacting with applications.
2. Scripting: Scripts such as batch files, PowerShell scripts, or shell scripts can automate tasks and execute multiple commands, enabling attackers to streamline their operations. Scripts are often delivered via phishing emails or downloaded during the execution phase.
3. Exploitation of Application Vulnerabilities: Attackers may exploit known or unknown vulnerabilities in applications to execute arbitrary code. This can be done through remote code execution (RCE) attacks or by targeting vulnerable software components.
4. Scheduled Task/Job: Using scheduled tasks or jobs, such as Windows Task Scheduler or Cron jobs in Linux, adversaries can set up scripts or programs to run at specific times or after system reboots, allowing for persistence or delayed execution.
5. Malicious Software Execution: Attackers can deliver malware such as trojans, worms, or ransomware to a system, which is executed to achieve specific goals. This can be delivered through malicious downloads, emails, or directly from a compromised system.
6. Cloud API Exploitation: In cloud environments, adversaries may abuse cloud APIs to execute malicious commands or modify resources, leveraging weak security configurations in cloud services.

Mitigation Strategies:

• Application Whitelisting: Restrict systems to run only approved and signed applications to prevent unauthorized execution of code.
• Monitor Execution Activities: Continuous monitoring and logging of command-line usage, script execution, and API calls can help detect suspicious behavior early in the attack.
• Least Privilege Principle: Limit user and application permissions to only what is necessary, reducing the potential for exploitation through unauthorized command execution.
• Patching Vulnerabilities: Regularly update systems and applications to close security gaps that attackers could exploit to execute malicious code.
• Behavioral Monitoring: Implement security solutions that detect unusual command execution or script usage patterns indicative of malicious behavior.

These methods aim to increase control and visibility over execution activities, helping organizations mitigate the risk of adversaries executing harmful code on their systems.

For more information, visit the MITRE ATT&CK Execution page.