TA0006 · CREDENTIAL ACCESS
Credentials In Files
T1552.001Sub-technique of Unsecured CredentialsWindows · IaaS · Linux · macOS · Containersattack.mitre.org
Adversaries may search local file systems and remote file shares for files containing insecurely stored credentials.
Detect it with
While detecting adversaries accessing these files may be difficult without knowing they exist in the first place, it may be possible to detect adversary use of credentials they have obtained.
Why it matters on shift
Credentials In Files is one of the concrete ways adversaries achieve credential access. 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 credential access, the next tactic is usually Discovery. Search your telemetry for the transition before closing the ticket.
Kill-chain context