Which term or expression is utilized when adversaries leverage existing tools in the environment?
Correct Answer: D
Living off the land(LOTL) is a tactic where adversaries leverageexisting tools and resources within the environmentfor malicious purposes. This approach minimizes the need to introduce new, detectable malware, instead using trusted system utilities and software already present on the network.
* Characteristics of Living off the Land:
* LOTL attacks make use of built-in utilities, such as PowerShell or Windows Management Instrumentation (WMI), to conduct malicious operations without triggering traditional malware defenses.
* This method is stealthy and often bypasses signature-based detection, as the tools used are legitimate components of the operating system.
* Why Other Options Are Incorrect:
* Opportunistic attack(Option A) refers to attacks that exploit easily accessible vulnerabilities rather than using internal resources.
* File-less attack(Option B) is a broader category that includes but is not limited to LOTL techniques.
* Script kiddies(Option C) describes inexperienced attackers who use pre-made scripts rather than sophisticated, environment-specific tactics.
References: Living off the land tactics leverage the environment's own tools, making them difficult to detect and prevent using conventional anti-malware strategies.