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Today marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter in my professional journey as I join Ankura as Cybersecurity Incident response, Associate. The start of a new job is always an important milestone. I am eager to contribute to the success of Ankura and to work with my new colleagues to achieve our common goals. This is just the beginning, and I look forward to sharing more about my experiences and learnings in the coming months. Thank you for being part of my journey, and stay tuned for more updates as I navigate this new and exciting chapter! Akash Patel

In today's digital landscape, cyberattacks are an ever-present threat. It's essential to have a robust remediation plan to ensure attackers are eradicated and system integrity is restored. Recently, I developed a comprehensive set of remediation steps for various operating systems, including Windows, Linux, and macOS. These steps are designed to help you recover from an attack and strengthen your defenses against future threats. By following these detailed steps, you can effectively remove attackers from your systems, restore security, and mitigate the risk of future incidents. Thoroughness and vigilance are key to a successful incident response and recovery. For more detailed steps , please refer to the comprehensive guide I created: Download the Full Remediation Guide I appreciate your feedback and any additional recommendations you may have to enhance these remediation steps. Together, we can ensure robust security and integrity for our systems. Akash Patel

In previous blogs, I've delved into the intricacies of incident response, providing comprehensive information and theories. However, theory without practical implementation often leaves one questioning where to start. That's why, something to bridge this gap - a set of checklists and cheat sheets designed to aid incident response professionals attached below. The Incident Response Checklist. Understanding the right questions to ask during an incident is crucial. For this reason, incident response checklist attached below. This checklist covers an array of critical questions tailored to incident scenario. You can find the detailed checklist in by clicking below link and also in the 'Key Notes' tab on my blog. It's even available in the 'Resume' section for your quick access. Here's the link to access it. For Checklist Click Me Windows Investigation Cheat sheet. I've also developed a Windows investigation cheat sheet that simplifies endpoint analysis. This cheat sheet is a handy resource that assists in navigating through endpoint-related scenarios. You can find the cheat sheet in by clicking below link and also in the 'Key Notes' tab on my blog. It's even available in the 'Resume' section for your quick access. Here's the link to access it. For CheatSheet Click me By combining these resources, I believe that a blend of theory and practical tools is key to effective incident response. Thank you for your continued engagement. Feel free to explore the resources, and I hope they prove valuable in your incident response endeavors. Thank you Akash Patel

Introduction: In the world of digital forensics, thorough memory acquisition and disk encryption detection are essential steps in uncovering valuable evidence. This guide will walk you through the process of memory acquisition, tools used and the importance of considering disk encryption before proceeding with forensic analysis. Step 1: Memory Acquisition For Live Systems: Utilize tools like FTK Imager or USB tools such as MagnetForensics RamCapture, Belkasoft Live RAM Capturer, or DumpIT. For Dead Systems: Capture hiberfil.sys (containing compressed RAM) and pagefil.sys, as well as MEMORY.DMP if available. Tools like Kape and Redline can assist in memory acquisition, while WinPMEM and Volatility are invaluable for memory analysis. Step 2: Checking for Disk Encryption Consider Encryption: Assess the possibility of disk encryption before shutting down or removing a hard drive. Use Encrypted Disk Detector (EDD): Scan local physical drives for encryption signatures, including TrueCrypt, PGP, Bitlocker, and more. https://www.magnetforensics.com/resources/encrypted-disk-detector/ EDD Functionality: EDD provides information about accessible encrypted volumes, aiding decision-making in incident response scenarios. Note:- that EDD does not scan for files within encrypted containers; its focus is on detecting mounted encrypted volumes. Incident Response Use: EDD helps quickly identify encrypted volumes without intrusive actions, guiding the need for live acquisition. EULA Acceptance: Users may need to accept an End User License Agreement (EULA) when using EDD; bypass this prompt by creating a shortcut with the "/accepteula" switch. Step 3: Image RAM and Create Triage Image Use FTK Imager to capture memory and create a triage image for initial analysis. Step 4: Capture Essential Forensic Data Collect critical artifacts such as $MFT, $Logfile, registry hives (SAM, SYSTEM, SOFTWARE, DEFAULT, NTUSER.DAT, USRCLASS.DAT), event logs (*.evtx), log files, .lnk files, .pf files, Pagefile.sys, Hiberfile.sys, RECENT folder contents, and the user's APPDATA folder. (I have already created a complete guide of Collection of artifacts) (Please do check out under Resume tab in my website) Conclusion: Memory acquisition and disk encryption detection are fundamental steps in Windows forensics, enabling investigators to uncover valuable evidence and insights Akash Patel

Today, I'm excited to share a fascinating blog post written by one of my dearest friends, Jaye V from ConnectWise. In this insightful piece, Jaye delves into the intricate world of cybersecurity, focusing on the elusive threat of "Active Directory Replication from Non Machine Account + Mimikatz DC Sync.” Link :- https://medium.com/syntheticvoid-security/how-to-not-overlook-important-windows-event-ids-during-threat-anlaysis-and-learning-about-mimikatz-cef23e251553 LinkedIn Profile :- https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaye-v-2a11191b9/ The Revelation: Jaye's blog sheds light on a sophisticated cyber threat that often goes undetected amidst the vast expanse of Active Directory operations. By dissecting the nuances of "Active Directory Replication from Non Machine Account + Mimikatz DC Sync,” Jaye unveils the hidden dangers lurking within our network infrastructure. Join the Conversation: I urge you all to dive into Jaye's insightful blog post and join the conversation surrounding Active Directory security. By sharing our experiences and insights, we can collectively enhance our cybersecurity posture and stay ahead of emerging threats. Don't miss out on this enlightening read! Akash Patel

As I sit down to write this blog post, my heart is filled with a mix of emotions. Today marks the end of an incredible chapter in my life as I bid farewell to ConnectWise. Reflecting on my time here, I am overwhelmed with gratitude for the opportunities, challenges, and memories that have shaped me into the professional I am today. Throughout my journey, I've had the privilege of working alongside some of the brightest minds in the industry. From brainstorming sessions to late-night incidents handlings, each moment has been a testament to the power of teamwork and camaraderie. I want to take this opportunity to express my heartfelt appreciation toAkshay Khade, Niraj kushwaha, Omkar Kadam, Shruti Jadhav, Jaye V, Benjamin Hafner, Kartik thever, Ramansh Sharma, Komal Patil, DIPTI PARVE, Devyani Itware, Sharvari Ghadi, Mihir Sukhatankar and list goes on..... for their unwavering support, guidance, and friendship. As I embark on a new chapter in my career, I carry with me the lessons learned and the memories shared during my time at ConnectWise. While I may be leaving this chapter behind, I am excited about the opportunities that lie ahead and the chance to continue learning and growing in new ways. To my ConnectWise family, thank you for everything. Your passion, dedication, and commitment to excellence have left a lasting impression on me, and I will always cherish the memories we've created together. Though my journey with ConnectWise may be coming to an end, I am confident that our paths will cross again. Until then, I wish you all continued success, happiness, and fulfillment in your endeavors. https://www.linkedin.com/in/akash-patel-097610202/ Akash Patel

In the realm of cybersecurity, one of the most concerning aspects of an attack campaign is the stealthy progression through a network to target critical data and assets. This maneuver, known as "lateral movement," is a sophisticated technique employed by attackers to navigate networks, evade detection, and gain access to valuable information. Identifying and preventing lateral movement is crucial to fortifying network defenses and safeguarding sensitive data from compromise. What is Lateral Movement? Lateral movement is akin to a strategic chess game for cyber attackers. Once they breach an initial entry point, they proceed methodically across the network, seeking out key assets that are the ultimate objectives of their attack. Identifying irregular peer-to-peer communication within a network can serve as a vital indicator of lateral movement attempts. Background: Lateral movement attacks involve the unauthorized connections from one Windows host to another using valid stolen credentials. Typically, a compromised system serves as the source host, infiltrated through various means such as spear-phishing attacks. Once compromised, attackers escalate privileges and extract credentials stored in the system to access other resources. Credential Theft and Misuse: Attackers employ specialized tools to capture various credentials, including NT hashes and Kerberos tickets, from compromised systems. These stolen credentials are then utilized to access additional resources within the network using techniques like pass-the-hash or pass-the-ticket. Detecting Lateral Movements: Detection of lateral movements necessitates the meticulous monitoring of Windows events to identify unauthorized account usage from or to unusual systems. This entails maintaining a comprehensive list of expected user-workstation combinations and promptly flagging any deviations from established norms. NTLM Lateral Movements Detection: NTLM lateral movements leave distinct traces in Windows event logs. Events such as 4648, 4776, and 4624 provide valuable insights into anomalous logon attempts, authentication packages, and workstation usage, serving as key indicators of potential lateral movements. Kerberos Lateral Movements Detection: Similarly, Kerberos lateral movements can be detected by closely monitoring events like 4768, 4769, and 4624. By scrutinizing service names, client addresses, and logon types, cybersecurity professionals can swiftly identify suspicious activities indicative of lateral movement attempts. Main Accounts to Monitor: In addition to Domain Administrator accounts, it is imperative to monitor other critical accounts such as service accounts, rarely used accounts, and business-critical accounts. By keeping a vigilant eye on these accounts, organizations can fortify their defenses against lateral movement attacks. Additional Events to Monitor: Reference materials such as NSA guidelines offer supplementary insights into additional events to monitor for detecting various types of cyber-attacks, including lateral movements. By leveraging these resources, organizations can further enhance their detection capabilities and bolster their overall cybersecurity posture. Techniques and Tools Leveraged in Lateral Movement Attackers employ a range of techniques and tools to execute lateral movement within networks. Here are some commonly used methods: Remote Access Services: Any amalgamation of hardware and software facilitating remote access tools or information on a network. Protocols like SSH, telnet, RDP, and VNC provide attackers with the means to traverse networks laterally. Windows Management Instrumentation Command-Line (WMIC): Offering a terminal interface, WMIC allows administrators to execute scripts for computer management. However, it can be manipulated as a vector in post-attack lateral movement. PsExec: Developed as an alternative to conventional remote access services, PsExec utilizes the Windows SYSTEM account for privilege escalation, making it a favored tool for attackers. Windows PowerShell: Microsoft's framework for task automation and configuration management. The PowerShell Empire toolkit encompasses a plethora of prebuilt attack modules, rendering PowerShell a potent tool for lateral movement in cyber attacks. Securing Against Lateral Movement: Mitigating the risks associated with lateral movement demands -Addressing vulnerabilities like insecure passwords, -Employing strong authentication methods and regularly updating passwords -Regularly auditing network activity -Monitoring irregularities in peer-to-peer communication. "Explore a meticulously compiled dossier spotlighting event log entries, registry modifications, and file creations or changes linked to lateral movement. This comprehensive file meticulously examines the nuances of lateral movement occurrences, shedding light on both the origins and destinations of these actions. Immerse yourself in meticulously categorized sections that unveil crucial details surrounding lateral movement scenarios, offering invaluable insights into their dynamics." Akash Patel

Collecting email evidence from mail servers can indeed be challenging due to various factors like server location, criticality to business operations, and the utilization of shared-hosting or cloud facilities. 1) Full or Logical Disk Image of Server Challenges: Difficult to obtain for highly utilized, critical servers. Method: Live imaging is often the only viable option. Considerations: Requires specialized tools capable of live imaging. Risk of disrupting business operations if not handled carefully. 2) Export of Individual Mailboxes in Their Entirety Method: Export each mailbox to create a backup or a PST file. Considerations: Efficiency: Suitable for collecting specific user data. Completeness: Ensures all mailbox data is captured. Tools: Exchange Management Shell or third-party utilities can be used for mailbox export. 3) Specialized Applications for Searching, Filtering, and Extracting Messages Method: Utilize forensic tools designed for email extraction and analysis. Considerations: Precision: Allows targeted searches based on criteria. Flexibility: Filters to extract relevant messages or data. Compatibility: Ensure the tool supports the server's email platform. Backup and Recovery Windows Server Backup (WSB): Exchange Aware Backups: Uses a plugin named "WSBExchange.exe" for Exchange-aware backups. Leverages Volume Shadow Service for background backups. Checks Exchange database consistency, flushes transactional logs, and marks databases as backed up. Backups stored as Virtual Hard Disk (VHD) files. Instructions for Backing up Exchange 2007 or 2010: 1. Start Windows Server Backup. 2. Click on "Backup Once" from the Actions pane to initiate the Backup Once Wizard. 3. Choose Backup Options: Select "Different options" and proceed. Opt for Full server (recommended) or Custom to specify volumes. 4. Specify Backup Destination: Choose a location and configure Access Control settings. 5. Advanced Options: Select VSS full backup. 6. Review and Confirm: Confirm backup settings and start the backup process. 7. Monitor Backup Progress: Check the backup progress page. 8. Backup Completion: Close once the backup operation is complete. Conclusion: When collecting email evidence from network-based servers, it's crucial to choose the right method based on the server's characteristics, business needs, and the investigation's requirements. Whether it's live imaging, mailbox exports, or specialized forensic tools, each approach has its advantages and challenges. Additionally, leveraging server backups like Windows Server Backup can provide a reliable and efficient way to capture Exchange data while ensuring data integrity and compliance with backup and disaster recovery plans. Akash Patel

Exploring WinPmem WinPmem is a robust memory acquisition tool designed specifically for Windows environments. Its primary function is to capture the content of a system's physical memory, offering a snapshot of the system's state at a particular moment. This is invaluable for uncovering running processes, identifying malicious activities, and piecing together the puzzle of a security incident. Key Features of WinPmem Kernel-Level Operation: WinPmem operates at the kernel level, enabling it to access and acquire the contents of the system's physical memory directly. Memory Analysis: The acquired memory image provides a treasure trove of information, including details about running processes, network connections, and other volatile artifacts crucial for investigations. Forensic Insights: Analysts use memory analysis to uncover evidence of malware, unauthorized access, and other security incidents that may not be readily available through traditional disk-based forensics. Capturing a Memory Image with WinPmem Now, let's walk through the process of capturing a memory image using WinPmem. Follow the command below: WinPmem.exe -o C:\Forensics\MemoryImage.raw or WinPmem.exe MemoryImage.raw (Both commands will work) I don't know about others but (With this tools I am able to capture .raw, .img, . mem) In this example, WinPmem will capture the memory image and save it as "MemoryImage.raw" in the "C:\Forensics" directory. Understanding the Command The WinPmem.exe executable initiates the tool. The -o flag is followed by the desired output path where the memory image file will be stored. You can use different tools like Autopsy, Volatility and more to analyze the image Conclusion WinPmem stands as a powerful ally for digital forensics experts, providing a window into a system's soul through the lens of its memory. By incorporating this tool into investigative workflows, analysts can unravel the mysteries hidden within a system, contributing to a more comprehensive understanding of security incidents. Akash Patel

Determining the location of email data—whether on a server or a workstation—is a pivotal first step for forensic investigators. Email Storage Locations 1. Server-Based Storage: Business Environments: In corporate settings, the email server typically hosts the most recent email traffic, while workstations often store older messages or synchronize mailboxes. Challenges: Email archives may be found in unexpected locations on workstations due to varying IT policies or system administrator oversights. 2. Workstation-Based Storage: Local Storage: Workstations often hold offline or archived email data, particularly older messages that are no longer actively synchronized with the server. Access: Limited IT controls on workstations can result in email archives being stored outside of intended locations, complicating forensic analysis. Way for Email Analysis: Advanced Indexing & Filtering: Narrow down the scope to relevant messages. Threading & Clustering: Facilitates focused investigation. Deleted Message Recovery: Retrieve soft-deleted messages within retention periods. Multi-Account Access: Access multiple user accounts for comprehensive review. Deduplication: Eliminate duplicate messages to streamline review. Recommended Tools: Forensic Suites: X-Ways, EnCase, FTK Dedicated Email Tools: SysTools Mail Examiner, Aid4Mail, Emailchemy, Logikcull Example: Microsoft Exchange: Market Leader: Predominantly used in corporate enterprises, often deployed on standalone or virtualized servers. Storage Structure: Exchange 2007: Utilizes .EDB database files, often located in C:\Program Files\Microsoft\Exchange Server\Mailbox\First Storage Group\Mailbox Database.edb. Prior to Exchange 2007: Comprises .EDB and .STM files, both essential for forensic analysis. .log Files: Vital for data recovery, capturing transactions before committing to .EDB. eseutil Tool: Enables log replay and data import into .EDB files for recovery and analysis. Storage Groups: Newer Exchange databases can be segmented into multiple storage groups, each containing several database files. Acquisition & Collaboration: Server Administrator Collaboration: Essential for comprehensive data acquisition. Mailbox Export: Mailboxes can be exported to .PST format as an alternative data source. Conclusion Understanding email storage nuances—be it server-based or workstation-based—is indispensable for forensic investigators. Collaboration with server administrators and leveraging specialized tools can significantly enhance the efficiency and thoroughness of email forensic investigations. Akash Patel

Email remains a primary communication tool, handling a vast amount of sensitive information daily. As such, understanding email encryption and the intricacies of email clients is vital for both privacy-conscious users and forensic investigators. 1. Individual Message Encryption Public-Key Protocols: Secure MIME (S/MIME) and Pretty Good Privacy/MIME (PGP/MIME) are commonly used public-key protocols for individual message encryption. End-to-End Encryption: These protocols ensures only the sender and recipient can decrypt the message, enhancing security. File Extensions: Look out for .PGP (PGP) or .P7M (S/MIME) extensions as indicators of encrypted content. 2. Client-Side Encryption Local Archives: Email clients like Outlook and Lotus Notes support encryption for locally stored archives. Enterprise Environments: Centralized key servers can facilitate S/MIME encryption, aiding recovery efforts. 3. Network-Based Mail Encryption TLS/SSL (Transport Layer Security/Secure Sockets Layer): Encrypts emails during transit without hindering forensic investigations. 4. Office 365 Encryption Transparent Encryption: Aims to make email encryption seamless for end-users within the Office 365 ecosystem. Common Traits of Email Clients and Investigative Considerations 1. File Structure: Index, Message, and Folder Files: Crucial for organizing and accessing email data. Archiving: Copy all mail directories during export for comprehensive data recovery. 2. Message Storage: Text-Based Storage: Messages are often stored in text form, facilitating the use of search tools to locate archives and enabling review using text editors if archives are corrupted. 3. Access Control: Limited Access: Requires authentication for email access, restricting to client identities. Password Recovery: Tools like Mail Pass View can aid in recovering passwords for popular email clients. 4. Data Recovery: Deleted Emails: Email archives often hide messages marked as deleted, requiring alternate viewers for review. File Recovery: Traditional forensic techniques can recover entire deleted email archives. Outlook Specifics: File Format: Stored in a single .pst file containing all email data. Binary Obfuscation: Includes default encryption options for added security. Deleted Messages: Accessible until compaction or cleanup, offering extended recovery opportunities. Conclusion Understanding email encryption and the traits of various email clients is crucial for effective digital communication and forensic investigations. Whether you're a user aiming to enhance data privacy or an investigator analyzing email data, this knowledge empowers you to navigate the complexities with confidence. Stay tuned for more insightful articles on cybersecurity and digital privacy topics! Akash Patel

What is Email client? An email client, often simply referred to as an "email program" or "email software," is a computer program or application that enables users to send, receive, organize, and manage email messages. Essentially, it provides an interface for users to interact with their email accounts hosted on email servers. Identifying Email Clients 1. Review Installed Programs: Start by examining the system's installed programs. The Windows registry can be a treasure trove, even revealing references to previously uninstalled email clients. 2. Internet Search:For unfamiliar email clients, a simple internet search can shed light on their file types and archive structures. Storing Email Data 1. Flat-Text Archives:Many email clients use flat-text archives, making keyword searches at the bit-level a fruitful endeavor, whether the data is in allocated or unallocated disk space. 2. Exported Email Files:Don't overlook exported emails, like Thunderbird's .EML files, which might contain crucial information. Common Email Clients to Consider The Bat! Poco Pegasus FoxMail IncrediMail AOL Features of Modern Email Clients 1. Comprehensive Data Storage: Modern email clients often store emails, calendar entries, contacts, and tasks within a unified archive. 2. Integration with Productivity Tools: Enhanced with features like appointment scheduling and task lists, modern email clients function as comprehensive productivity suites. Calendar Entries Importance: Calendar entries offer insights into a person's activities. File Formats: Look out for .ICS files commonly used for calendar data. Forensic Analysis: Orphan .ICS files in temporary directories can offer evidence. Address Books File Formats: Formats like .WAB, .PAB, .VCF, .MAB, and .NNT are common. Searchability: Text-based formats are easier to search and analyze. Task Lists Storage: Task lists may reside within calendar files in SQLite format with an .SDB extension. Forensic Analysis: Importing these files into a forensic station can enable detailed analysis. Corrupted Email Archives Common Causes: Corruptions can result from client issues, large archives, or out-of-sync files. Recovery Options: Tools like scanpst.exe can repair corruption, but third-party tools are available, though their trustworthiness varies. Best Practices: Always document tools used and run them on evidence copies. Conclusion Understanding the intricacies of email client data storage is paramount for forensic investigators. By employing the strategies, considerations, and best practices outlined in this guide, investigators can navigate the challenges posed by diverse email clients effectively. Akash Patel