DFIR Global

The MITRE ATT&CK Resource Development (TA0042) tactic describes how adversaries create, obtain, or compromise resources necessary for their attack operations. These resources can include infrastructure (domains, servers, and cloud accounts), capabilities (malware or exploit kits), and compromised assets (stolen credentials or botnets). Attackers use these resources to support activities such as deploying malware, creating phishing campaigns, or executing distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks. This phase is critical to establishing a solid foundation for more advanced tactics in a cyberattack.

Key Techniques:

• Infrastructure Acquisition: Adversaries often buy, rent, or compromise infrastructure to launch attacks. They might purchase domains or lease servers that are later used for malicious purposes. For example, attackers can purchase domains that resemble legitimate websites for phishing attacks, or they may rent virtual private servers (VPS) to host malware or command-and-control (C2) infrastructure.
• Compromised Accounts: Attackers use stolen credentials or compromise legitimate accounts to enhance the authenticity of their malicious activities. These accounts can be used for social engineering, phishing, or to impersonate legitimate users in more targeted attacks. This may involve obtaining credentials through data breaches, phishing attempts, or purchasing them on underground forums.
• Tool Development and Acquisition: Adversaries may develop custom malware or purchase tools such as ransomware kits, exploit kits, or password-cracking software. These tools help in various attack phases, from reconnaissance to exploitation and data exfiltration.
• Botnets and Proxy Networks: Compromised systems may be used to create botnets or proxy networks, which allow attackers to hide their real identities and traffic. Botnets can also be rented or sold, providing attackers with an army of compromised devices that can be used for various tasks like launching DDoS attacks, mining cryptocurrency, or distributing malware.
• Code-Signing Certificates: Adversaries may acquire stolen or forged code-signing certificates to make their malware appear legitimate. This increases the chances that malicious software will evade detection by security systems, as signed executables are often trusted by operating systems and users alike.

Mitigation Strategies: To combat resource development activities, organizations can take several defensive measures:

1. Infrastructure Monitoring: Actively monitor domains, IP addresses, and cloud services for abnormal behavior or acquisitions that don’t align with typical business operations.
2. Credential Management: Implement multi-factor authentication (MFA), regular password changes, and credential management tools to minimize the risk of account compromise.
3. Code-Signing Practices: Enforce strict control over the use of code-signing certificates and regularly audit certificates to detect misuse or theft.

These preventive actions, combined with ongoing threat intelligence gathering, can significantly reduce an adversary’s ability to build or acquire the necessary resources for an attack.

For further insights, visit the MITRE ATT&CK Resource Development page.