defense_evasion_python_library_load_and_delete.md

Python Library Load and Delete

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Metadata

• Author: Elastic

• Description: Detects when a Python process loads a library from a user's home directory and then deletes that library within a short time window. This may indicate an attempt to execute malicious code in memory and remove evidence from disk as a form of defense evasion.

• UUID: 76a1f901-4495-4cbd-a35a-7ff8d116602b

• Integration: endpoint

• Language: [EQL]

• Source File: Python Library Load and Delete

Query

sequence by process.entity_id with maxspan=15s
  [library where event.action == "load" and dll.path like "/Users/*" and process.name like~ "python"]
  [file where event.action == "deletion" and startswith~(file.path, dll.path)]

Notes

• This hunting rule helps identify potential in-memory execution or anti-forensic behavior by Python-based malware.
• Library load followed by quick deletion is suspicious, especially in user directories.
• Consider pivoting on process.entity_id to examine surrounding process activity and file writes.

MITRE ATT&CK Techniques

• T1059.006
• T1070.004

References

• https://www.elastic.co/security-labs/dprk-code-of-conduct
• https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/slow-pisces-new-custom-malware/
• https://slowmist.medium.com/cryptocurrency-apt-intelligence-unveiling-lazarus-groups-intrusion-techniques-a1a6efda7d34
• https://x.com/safe/status/1897663514975649938
• https://www.sygnia.co/blog/sygnia-investigation-bybit-hack/

License

• Elastic License v2