T1406.002 Software Packing
Sub-technique of: T1406
High-Level Description
Adversaries may perform software packing to conceal their code. Software packing is a method of compressing or encrypting an executable. Packing an executable changes the file signature in an attempt to avoid signature-based detection. Most decompression techniques decompress the executable code in memory.
Utilities used to perform software packing are called packers. An example packer is FTT. A more comprehensive list of known packers is available, but adversaries may create their own packing techniques that do not leave the same artifacts as well-known packers to evade defenses.
Kill Chain Phase
- Defense Evasion (TA0030)
Platforms: iOS, Android
What to Check
- Identify if Software Packing technique is applicable to target mobile environment
- Check iOS devices for indicators of Software Packing
- Check Android devices for indicators of Software Packing
- Assess detection coverage (1 detection strategies)
How to Test
Identify Attack Surface
Determine if the target mobile environment is susceptible to Software Packing by examining the target platforms (iOS, Android).
Assess Existing Defenses
Review whether mitigations for T1406.002 are in place. If defenses are absent or misconfigured, this technique may be exploitable.
Remediation Guide
No specific mitigations documented for this technique.
Detection
Detection of Software Packing
Risk Assessment
| Finding | Severity | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Software Packing technique applicable | Low | Defense Evasion |
CWE Categories
| CWE ID | Title |
|---|---|
| CWE-693 | Protection Mechanism Failure |