cyberstrikeus T1639 Exfiltration Over Alternative Protocol
High-Level Description
Adversaries may steal data by exfiltrating it over a different protocol than that of the existing command and control channel. The data may also be sent to an alternate network location from the main command and control server.
Alternate protocols include FTP, SMTP, HTTP/S, DNS, SMB, or any other network protocol not being used as the main command and control channel. Different protocol channels could also include Web services such as cloud storage. Adversaries may opt to also encrypt and/or obfuscate these alternate channels.
Kill Chain Phase
- Exfiltration (TA0036)
Platforms: Android, iOS
What to Check
- Identify if Exfiltration Over Alternative Protocol technique is applicable to target mobile environment
- Check Android devices for indicators of Exfiltration Over Alternative Protocol
- Check iOS devices for indicators of Exfiltration Over Alternative Protocol
- Assess detection coverage (1 detection strategies)
How to Test
Identify Attack Surface
Determine if the target mobile environment is susceptible to Exfiltration Over Alternative Protocol by examining the target platforms (Android, iOS).
Assess Existing Defenses
Review whether mitigations for T1639 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 Exfiltration Over Alternative Protocol
Risk Assessment
| Finding | Severity | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Exfiltration Over Alternative Protocol technique applicable | Medium | Exfiltration |
CWE Categories
| CWE ID | Title |
|---|---|
| CWE-200 | Exposure of Sensitive Information |