Project File Infection

Adversaries may attempt to infect project files with malicious code. These project files may consist of objects, program organization units, variables such as tags, documentation, and other configurations needed for PLC programs to function. [1] Using built in functions of the engineering software, adversaries may be able to download an infected program to a PLC in the operating environment enabling further Execution and Persistence techniques. [2]

Adversaries may export their own code into project files with conditions to execute at specific intervals. [3] Malicious programs allow adversaries control of all aspects of the process enabled by the PLC. Once the project file is downloaded to a PLC the workstation device may be disconnected with the infected project file still executing. [2]

ID: T0873
Sub-techniques:  No sub-techniques
Tactic: Persistence
Platforms: None
Version: 1.0
Created: 21 May 2020
Last Modified: 13 October 2023

Procedure Examples

ID Name Description
S0603 Stuxnet

Stuxnet copies itself into Step 7 projects in such a way that it automatically executes when the Step 7 project is loaded. [3]

Targeted Assets

ID Asset
A0001 Workstation

Mitigations

ID Mitigation Description
M0947 Audit

Review the integrity of project files to verify they have not been modified by adversary behavior. Verify a cryptographic hash for the file with a known trusted version, or look for other indicators of modification (e.g., timestamps).

M0945 Code Signing

Allow for code signing of any project files stored at rest to prevent unauthorized tampering. Ensure the signing keys are not easily accessible on the same system.

M0941 Encrypt Sensitive Information

When at rest, project files should be encrypted to prevent unauthorized changes. [4]

M0922 Restrict File and Directory Permissions

Ensure permissions restrict project file access to only engineer and technician user groups and accounts.

Detection

ID Data Source Data Component Detects
DS0022 File File Modification

Monitor for unexpected changes to project files, although if the malicious modification occurs in tandem with legitimate changes it will be difficult to isolate the unintended changes by analyzing only file systems modifications.

References