Tainted Kernel Module Load

Last updated 6 months ago on 2025-01-15
Created 2 years ago on 2023-10-23

About

This rule monitors the syslog log file for messages related to instances of a tainted kernel module load. Rootkits often leverage kernel modules as their main defense evasion technique. Detecting tainted kernel module loads is crucial for ensuring system security and integrity, as malicious or unauthorized modules can compromise the kernel and lead to system vulnerabilities or unauthorized access.
Tags
Domain: EndpointOS: LinuxUse Case: Threat DetectionTactic: PersistenceTactic: Defense EvasionLanguage: kuery
Severity
low
Risk Score
21
MITRE ATT&CK™

Persistence (TA0003)(opens in a new tab or window)

Defense Evasion (TA0005)(opens in a new tab or window)

License
Elastic License v2(opens in a new tab or window)

Definition

Rule Type
Query (Kibana Query Language)
Integration Pack
Prebuilt Security Detection Rules
Index Patterns
logs-system.syslog-*
Related Integrations

system(opens in a new tab or window)

Query
host.os.type:linux and event.dataset:"system.syslog" and process.name:kernel and
message:"module verification failed: signature and/or required key missing - tainting kernel"

Install detection rules in Elastic Security

Detect Tainted Kernel Module Load in the Elastic Security detection engine by installing this rule into your Elastic Stack.

To setup this rule, check out the installation guide for Prebuilt Security Detection Rules(opens in a new tab or window).