Obfuscated Files or Information: Stripped Payloads

Created the Wednesday 15 February 2023. Updated 1 year, 6 months ago.

Adversaries may attempt to make a payload difficult to analyze by removing symbols, strings, and other human readable information. Scripts and executables may contain variables names and other strings that help developers document code functionality. Symbols are often created by an operating system’s linker when executable payloads are compiled. Reverse engineers use these symbols and strings to analyze code and to identify functionality in payloads.

Adversaries may use stripped payloads in order to make malware analysis more difficult. For example, compilers and other tools may provide features to remove or obfuscate strings and symbols. Adversaries have also used stripped payload formats to evade detection and analysis. The lack of human-readable information may directly hinder detection and analysis of payloads

Technique Identifier

T1027.008

Technique Tags

Defense Evasion Remove human readable information operating system linker obfuscate malicious code

Additional Resources

External Links

The resources provided below are associated links that will give you even more detailed information and research on current evasion technique. It is important to note that, while these resources may be helpful, it is important to exercise caution when following external links. As always, be careful when clicking on links from unknown sources, as they may lead to malicious content.

Obfuscated Files or Information: Stripped Payloads, Sub-technique T1027.008 - Enterprise | MITRE ATT&CK®