TA0005 · DEFENSE EVASION
Timestomp
Adversaries may modify file time attributes to hide new files or changes to existing files.
Detect it with
Forensic techniques exist to detect aspects of files that have had their timestamps modified. It may be possible to detect timestomping using file modification monitoring that collects information on file handle opens and can compare timestamp values.
Why it matters on shift
Timestomp is one of the concrete ways adversaries achieve defense evasion. 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 defense evasion, the next tactic is usually Credential Access. Search your telemetry for the transition before closing the ticket.
Kill-chain context