Sub-technique of T1059 Command and Scripting Interpreter.View on attack.mitre.org
Adversaries may execute commands and perform malicious tasks using AutoIT and AutoHotKey automation scripts. AutoIT and AutoHotkey (AHK) are scripting languages that enable users to automate Windows tasks. These automation scripts can be used to perform a wide variety of actions, such as clicking on buttons, entering text, and opening and closing programs.
Adversaries may use AHK (`.ahk`) and AutoIT (`.au3`) scripts to execute malicious code on a victim's system. For example, adversaries have used for AHK to execute payloads and other modular malware such as keyloggers. Adversaries have also used custom AHK files containing embedded malware as Phishing payloads.
These scripts may also be compiled into self-contained executable payloads (`.exe`).
Rules on DetectionCode tagged with T1059.010.
None recorded.
| Used by | Procedure example |
|---|---|
| GroupAPT39 | APT39 has utilized AutoIt malware scripts embedded in Microsoft Office documents or malicious links. |
| Used by | Procedure example |
|---|---|
| MalwareDarkGate | DarkGate uses AutoIt scripts dropped to a hidden directory during initial installation phases, such as `test.au3`. |
| MalwareLumma Stealer | Lumma Stealer has utilized AutoIt malware scripts and AutoIt executables. |
| MalwareMelcoz | Melcoz has been distributed through an AutoIt loader script. |
| MalwareOutSteel | OutSteel was developed using the AutoIT scripting language. |
| MalwareXLoader | XLoader can use an AutoIT script to decrypt a payload file, load it into victim memory, then execute it on the victim machine. |
Data from MITRE ATT&CK® (Enterprise). ATT&CK® is a registered trademark of The MITRE Corporation.
