TA0005 · DEFENSE EVASION
Extended Attributes
Adversaries may abuse extended attributes (xattrs) on macOS and Linux to hide their malicious data in order to evade detection. Extended attributes are key-value pairs of file and directory metadata used by both macOS and Linux.
Detect it with
No MITRE detection guidance published. Build coverage from the parent technique and your own telemetry.
Why it matters on shift
Extended Attributes 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