Adversaries may abuse Python commands and scripts for execution. Python is a very popular scripting/programming language, with capabilities to perform many functions. Python can be executed interactively from the command-line (via the <code>python.exe</code> interpreter) or via scripts (.py) that can be written and distributed to different systems. Python code can also be compiled into binary executables.(Citation: Zscaler APT31 Covid-19 October 2020) Python comes with many built-in packages to interact with the underlying system, such as file operations and device I/O. Within industrial control system environments, Python libraries have been developed to implement multiple ICS protocols to establish communications with field devices. Adversaries can use these libraries or develop their own to execute commands on workstation, control server assets or send remote command messages to manipulate the industrial process through exisiting ICS protocols.
Perform audits or scans of systems, permissions, insecure software, insecure configurations, etc. to identify potential weaknesses. Perform periodic integrity checks of the device to validate the correctness of the firmware, software, programs, and configurations. Integrity checks, which typically include cryptographic hashes or digital signatures, should be compared to those obtained at known valid states, especially after events like device reboots, program downloads, or program restarts.
M0950Exploit ProtectionUse capabilities to detect and block conditions that may lead to or be indicative of a software exploit occurring.
Block execution of code on a system through application control, and/or script blocking.
Prevent unauthorized installation of software on ICS assets.
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