T1518.002_backup-software-discovery

T1518.002 Backup Software Discovery

Sub-technique of: T1518

High-Level Description

Adversaries may attempt to get a listing of backup software or configurations that are installed on a system. Adversaries may use this information to shape follow-on behaviors, such as Data Destruction, Inhibit System Recovery, or Data Encrypted for Impact.

Commands that can be used to obtain security software information are netsh, reg query with Reg, dir with cmd, and Tasklist, but other indicators of discovery behavior may be more specific to the type of software or security system the adversary is looking for, such as Veeam, Acronis, Dropbox, or Paragon.

Kill Chain Phase

• Discovery (TA0007)

Platforms: Windows, macOS, Linux

What to Check

• Identify if Backup Software Discovery technique is applicable to target environment
• Check Windows systems for indicators of Backup Software Discovery
• Check macOS systems for indicators of Backup Software Discovery
• Check Linux systems for indicators of Backup Software Discovery
• Assess detection coverage (1 detection strategies)

How to Test

Manual Testing

1. Identify Attack Surface: Determine if the target environment is susceptible to Backup Software Discovery by examining the target platforms (Windows, macOS, Linux).

2. Assess Existing Defenses: Review whether mitigations for T1518.002 are in place. If defenses are absent or misconfigured, this technique may be exploitable.

3. Execute Test: Use tools and methods described in the MITRE ATT&CK page and external references below.

Note: No Atomic Red Team tests available for this technique. See Atomic Red Team GitHub for updates.

Remediation Guide

No specific mitigations documented for this technique.

Detection

Backup Software Discovery via CLI, Registry, and Process Inspection (T1518.002)

Risk Assessment

CWE Categories

References

• Symantec Play Ransomware 2023
• Atomic Red Team - T1518.002
• MITRE ATT&CK - T1518.002