Description
Adversaries may steal data by exfiltrating it over a symmetrically encrypted network protocol other than that of the existing command and control channel. The data may also be sent to an alternate network location from the main command and control server.
Symmetric encryption algorithms are those that use shared or the same keys/secrets on each end of the channel. This requires an exchange or pre-arranged agreement/possession of the value used to encrypt and decrypt data.
Network protocols that use asymmetric encryption often utilize symmetric encryption once keys are exchanged, but adversaries may opt to manually share keys and implement symmetric cryptographic algorithms (ex: RC4, AES) vice using mechanisms that are baked into a protocol. This may result in multiple layers of encryption (in protocols that are natively encrypted such as HTTPS) or encryption in protocols that not typically encrypted (such as HTTP or FTP).
Platforms
Mitigations (3)
Filter Network TrafficM1037
Enforce proxies and use dedicated servers for services such as DNS and only allow those systems to communicate over respective ports/protocols, instead of all systems within a network.
Network Intrusion PreventionM1031
Network intrusion detection and prevention systems that use network signatures to identify traffic for specific adversary command and control infrastructure and malware can be used to mitigate activity at the network level.
Network SegmentationM1030
Follow best practices for network firewall configurations to allow only necessary ports and traffic to enter and exit the network.(Citation: TechNet Firewall Design)
References
Frequently Asked Questions
What is T1048.001 (Exfiltration Over Symmetric Encrypted Non-C2 Protocol)?
T1048.001 is a MITRE ATT&CK technique named 'Exfiltration Over Symmetric Encrypted Non-C2 Protocol'. It belongs to the Exfiltration tactic(s). Adversaries may steal data by exfiltrating it over a symmetrically encrypted network protocol other than that of the existing command and control channel. The data may also be sent to an alternate net...
How can T1048.001 be detected?
Detection of T1048.001 (Exfiltration Over Symmetric Encrypted Non-C2 Protocol) typically involves monitoring system logs, network traffic, and endpoint telemetry. Use SIEM rules, EDR solutions, and behavioral analytics to identify suspicious activity associated with this technique.
What mitigations exist for T1048.001?
There are 3 documented mitigations for T1048.001. Key mitigations include: Filter Network Traffic, Network Intrusion Prevention, Network Segmentation.
Which threat groups use T1048.001?
While specific threat group attribution may vary, this technique has been observed in various real-world attacks. Check the MITRE ATT&CK website for the latest threat intelligence.