This lab walkthrough delves into the investigation of a compromised web server that was exploited through a series of vulnerabilities, ultimately enabling remote code execution and malicious activities. The scenario presents a detailed forensic analysis of network traffic captured in a packet capture (PCAP) file, highlighting techniques used by attackers to infiltrate the server, execute arbitrary commands, and leverage the compromised infrastructure for further exploitation.
The investigation begins by identifying the initial entry point of the attack, exploring HTTP traffic for evidence of payload delivery and command execution. The analysis traces the use of malicious scripts and configuration changes that facilitated remote access and privilege escalation. By inspecting DNS queries, HTTP requests, and command-and-control communications, the walkthrough uncovers how attackers maintained persistence and executed follow-up attacks.
This lab also focuses on identifying the tools and techniques employed by the attackers, including the abuse of legitimate network protocols to obfuscate malicious traffic. Additionally, it examines the deployment of specialized software to exploit system resources for unauthorized purposes, shedding light on how modern threats blend into legitimate activities to evade detection.
By the end of this walkthrough, participants will gain insights into detecting and analyzing network-based attacks, understanding the significance of proper server configuration, and recognizing the role of monitoring tools in uncovering malicious behavior. The lab emphasizes the importance of proactive defense strategies and highlights forensic techniques that security anal