Windows Multiple Account Passwords Changed
Description
The following analytic detects instances where more than five unique Windows account passwords are changed within a 10-minute interval. It leverages Event Code 4724 from the Windows Security Event Log, using the wineventlog_security dataset to monitor and count distinct TargetUserName values. This behavior is significant as rapid password changes across multiple accounts are unusual and may indicate unauthorized access or internal compromise. If confirmed malicious, this activity could lead to widespread account compromise, unauthorized access to sensitive information, and potential disruption of services.
Query · spl
`wineventlog_security` EventCode=4724 status=success
| bucket span=10m _time
| stats count dc(user) as unique_users values(user) as user values(dest) as dest
BY EventCode signature _time
src_user SubjectDomainName TargetDomainName
Logon_ID
| where unique_users > 5
| `windows_multiple_account_passwords_changed_filter`
Implementation guide
To successfully implement this search, you need to be ingesting Domain Controller events with the Windows TA. The Advanced Security Audit policy setting Audit User Account Management within Account Management needs to be enabled.
Known false positives
- Service accounts may be responsible for the creation, deletion or modification of accounts for legitimate purposes. Filter as needed.
Analyst notes
Known false positives: Service accounts may be responsible for the creation, deletion or modification of accounts for legitimate purposes. Filter as needed.