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Event: runc_suspicious_exec

Quick Explanation

The runc_suspicious_exec detection recipe identifies instances where the runc binary is executed by an unknown process. This is suspicious because runc is usually invoked by known container runtime managers like Docker or containerd. Such an event could lead to unauthorized access or control over containerized environments, posing significant risks to the CI/CD pipeline.

More Information

Information

  1. Description: runc binary executed by a suspicious process
  2. Category: Defense Evasion
  3. Method: Masquerading
  4. Importance: Critical

Analysis of the Event

This detection indicates that the runc binary was executed by a process that is not a recognized container runtime manager. This is flagged as suspicious because runc is typically invoked by container runtime managers such as Docker, containerd, or CRI-O. The execution of runc by an unknown process could suggest an attempt to masquerade as a legitimate container runtime operation, potentially to evade detection mechanisms or to execute unauthorized actions within the container environment.

This event falls under the MITRE ATT&CK framework category of Defense Evasion, specifically using the method of Masquerading. Masquerading involves disguising malicious activities as legitimate processes to avoid detection. The critical importance of this detection highlights the potential severity of the threat, as it could lead to unauthorized access or control over containerized environments.

Implications for the CI/CD Pipeline

The detected security event poses significant risks to the CI/CD pipeline. If the offending code is merged and deployed, it could allow malicious actors to execute unauthorized commands within the container environment, potentially leading to data breaches, service disruptions, or further exploitation of the infrastructure. The integrity of the CI environment could be compromised, affecting the reliability and security of the entire software delivery process.

  1. Review Code Changes: Thoroughly examine recent code changes in the pull request to identify any modifications that could lead to the suspicious execution of the runc binary.
  2. Examine Dependencies: Check for any new or updated dependencies that might introduce vulnerabilities or unauthorized behaviors.
  3. Audit Container Runtime Configurations: Ensure that only authorized processes can invoke the runc binary and that proper access controls are in place.
  4. Implement Monitoring and Alerts: Enhance monitoring and alerting mechanisms to detect any unusual process executions within the container environment.
  5. Conduct Security Testing: Perform additional security testing on the CI/CD pipeline to identify and mitigate potential vulnerabilities introduced by recent changes.
  6. Update Security Policies: Review and update security policies to enforce stricter controls over container runtime operations and to prevent unauthorized process executions.