TA0002 · EXECUTION
User Execution
The user opens the attachment, mounts the ISO, runs the installer, or pastes the ClickFix command.
Detect it with
Process trees rooted in a mail client or browser download directory; execution from temp, Downloads, or a mounted image.
Why it matters on shift
User Execution is one of the concrete ways adversaries achieve execution. 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 execution, the next tactic is usually Persistence. Search your telemetry for the transition before closing the ticket.
4 sub-techniques
How it shows up in practice
- T1204.001
Malicious Link
An adversary may rely upon a user clicking a malicious link in order to gain execution. Users may be subjected to social engineering to get them to click on a link that will lead to code execution.
- T1204.002
Malicious File
An adversary may rely upon a user opening a malicious file in order to gain execution. Users may be subjected to social engineering to get them to open a file that will lead to code execution.
- T1204.003
Malicious Image
Adversaries may rely on a user running a malicious image to facilitate execution.
- T1204.004
Malicious Copy and Paste
An adversary may rely upon a user copying and pasting code in order to gain execution. Users may be subjected to social engineering to get them to copy and paste code directly into a Command and Scripting Interpreter.
Kill-chain context