Leveraging Command Line and PowerShell: Tactics Hackers Use to Breach Organizations

Introduction

The command line interface (CLI) and PowerShell are tools that system administrators use regularly for managing systems and automating tasks. Unfortunately, these tools can also be exploited by hackers to breach organizations. This article explores how these tools can be used maliciously, and illustrates tactics such as Kerberos ticketing attacks, Mimikatz exploits, and more.

Exploiting PowerShell

a. PowerShell is deeply integrated into the Windows environment, which attackers can exploit to infiltrate systems. PowerShell scripts can be used to launch fileless attacks that leave minimal traces for investigators.

b. Hackers often use PowerShell to execute Mimikatz, a post-exploitation tool that can extract plaintext passwords, hash, PINs, and Kerberos tickets from memory. Mimikatz can also perform pass-the-hash, pass-the-ticket, or build Golden tickets.

c. PowerShell is also utilized for lateral movement. For instance, an attacker might use PowerShell remoting to execute commands or run scripts on remote computers.

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Exploiting Command Line Interface

a. CLI tools can be used by hackers to harvest credentials. For instance, the 'net use' command can be used to establish network connections, which can then be exploited to access network resources.

b. Commands such as 'ipconfig /all' and 'netstat' can be used for reconnaissance, helping attackers understand the network environment and identify targets.

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Active Directory Attacks

a. Golden Ticket: This attack involves creating a Kerberos Golden Ticket using a stolen Key Distribution Service account (KRBTGT). This ticket grants the attacker full domain admin rights, allowing them to generate new tickets for any account in any domain.

b. Silver Ticket: This attack involves creating a Kerberos Silver Ticket using a stolen service account. Silver tickets allow for gaining control over a particular service rather than the entire domain.

c. These tickets are generated using Mimikatz and the necessary cryptographic material, which can be obtained by compromising the relevant accounts or systems.

Post-Exploitation with Command Line and PowerShell

Once inside the network, attackers can use the command line and PowerShell to execute further attacks, escalate privileges, exfiltrate data, or establish persistence. Tools like Mimikatz, PowerSploit, and others often come into play in this stage.

Conclusion

The use of command line and PowerShell by hackers highlights the importance of monitoring and securing these interfaces. Tools like PowerShell and command line are dual-edged swords; they can be used to manage systems effectively but also exploited by attackers to breach networks. Therefore, organizations must adopt advanced security measures like regular patching, monitoring for suspicious activities, implementing least privilege policies, and educating employees about the signs of a potential attack.