TA0007 · DISCOVERY
System Owner/User Discovery
Adversaries may attempt to identify the primary user, currently logged in user, set of users that commonly uses a system, or whether a user is actively using the system.
Detect it with
System and network discovery techniques normally occur throughout an operation as an adversary learns the environment. Data and events should not be viewed in isolation, but as part of a chain of behavior that could lead to other activities based on the information obtained.
Why it matters on shift
System Owner/User Discovery is one of the concrete ways adversaries achieve discovery. Recognising it in telemetry lets you name the technique in your ticket and pivot to what came before and after.
What to look for next
After discovery, the next tactic is usually Lateral Movement. Search your telemetry for the transition before closing the ticket.
Kill-chain context