Pre-OS Boot: System Firmware

Created the Wednesday 15 February 2023. Updated 6 months, 2 weeks ago.

Adversaries may modify system firmware to persist on systems.The BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) and The Unified Extensible Firmware Interface (UEFI) or Extensible Firmware Interface (EFI) are examples of system firmware that operate as the software interface between the operating system and hardware of a computer.

System firmware like BIOS and (U)EFI underly the functionality of a computer and may be modified by an adversary to perform or assist in malicious activity. Capabilities exist to overwrite the system firmware, which may give sophisticated adversaries a means to install malicious firmware updates as a means of persistence on a system that may be difficult to detect.

Technique Identifier

T1542.001

Technique Tags

Persistence Defense Evasion BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) Unified Extensible Firmware Interface (UEFI) Extensible Firmware Interface (EFI) overwrite system firmware malicious firmware updates rootkit BIOS modification

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.

Pre-OS Boot: System Firmware, Sub-technique T1542.001 - Enterprise | MITRE ATT&CK®