Abuse of Domain Accounts

Technique Detected:  Domain Accounts | T1078.002

ID: DET0210
Domains: Enterprise
Analytics: AN0590, AN0591, AN0592, AN0593
Version: 1.0
Created: 21 October 2025
Last Modified: 21 October 2025

Analytics

AN0590

Detection of suspicious logon behavior using valid domain accounts across multiple hosts, off-hours, or simultaneous sessions from geographically distant locations.

Log Sources
Data Component Name Channel
Logon Session Metadata (DC0088) WinEventLog:Security EventCode=4624, 4625, 4768, 4769
Process Creation (DC0032) WinEventLog:Sysmon EventCode=1
Network Connection Creation (DC0082) WinEventLog:Sysmon EventCode=3
Mutable Elements
Field Description
TimeWindow Tune for detection of off-hours or abnormal logon spikes.
UserContext Scope to sensitive domain accounts (e.g., Domain Admins).
LogonType Distinguish between interactive, service, and network logons.

AN0591

Use of domain accounts via sssd or winbind for logon activity outside of typical patterns, especially on sensitive systems or with lateral movement tools.

Log Sources
Data Component Name Channel
User Account Authentication (DC0002) auditd:SYSCALL pam_authenticate, sshd
Logon Session Metadata (DC0088) linux:syslog sssd / sudo logs
Mutable Elements
Field Description
HostnameScope Filter to high-value systems (e.g., domain-joined servers).
AccountDomain Identify trusted domains versus external or misconfigured domains.

AN0592

Domain logins using network accounts or mobile accounts via Open Directory or Active Directory plugins, especially outside business hours or on atypical endpoints.

Log Sources
Data Component Name Channel
User Account Authentication (DC0002) macos:unifiedlog log show --predicate 'eventMessage contains "Authentication"'
Mutable Elements
Field Description
UserLocation Geo-IP or VPN source context for abnormal remote access.
LogonMethod Control for expected services (e.g., GUI login vs. SSH).

AN0593

Login to vSphere or ESXi hosts using domain accounts, especially those associated with vpxuser or unexpected group memberships.

Log Sources
Data Component Name Channel
User Account Authentication (DC0002) esxi:vpxd /var/log/vmware/vpxd.log
Logon Session Metadata (DC0088) esxi:hostd /var/log/hostd.log
Mutable Elements
Field Description
AccountType Prioritize detection on accounts with elevated access.
LoginInterface Distinguish interactive UI login from API or SSH access.