TA0042 · RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT
Tool
Adversaries may buy, steal, or download software tools that can be used during targeting. Tools can be open or closed source, free or commercial.
Detect it with
In some cases, malware repositories can also be used to identify features of tool use associated with an adversary, such as watermarks in Cobalt Strike payloads.
Why it matters on shift
Tool is one of the concrete ways adversaries achieve resource development. 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 resource development, the next tactic is usually Initial Access. Search your telemetry for the transition before closing the ticket.
Kill-chain context