Executive Summary

• Sentry Global Intelligence (SGI) detected a low-severity JavaScript file originating from IP address 120.1.16.92, associated with AS4837 in China.
• The detected file, identified as ‘standalone-framework.js’, poses a low risk based on VirusTotal results.
• The likely objective is reconnaissance or the deployment of lightweight tracking mechanisms.
• Business risk level is currently LOW, but requires monitoring for potential escalation.

Organizations should proactively monitor network traffic and endpoint activity for related indicators to prevent potential future compromise.

Observed Activity (SGI Sensors)

On August 19, 2025, at 10:43 UTC, an SGI sensor detected network activity from IP address 120.1.16.92. The communication involved a TCP connection and included a JavaScript payload. VirusTotal analysis of the SHA256 hash (01ba4719c80b6fe911b091a7c05124b64eeece964e09c058ef8f9805daca546b) identified the file as ‘standalone-framework.js’. While the file was largely undetected by AV vendors, further analysis is warranted to understand its full potential.

Malware/Technique Overview

The identified malware family is ‘standalone-framework.js’. While its exact capabilities are not fully determined, JavaScript-based threats are commonly used for:

• Reconnaissance activities.
• Web-based attacks, including cross-site scripting (XSS).
• Redirection to malicious websites.
• Credential harvesting.

Given the low detection rate, this could be a custom-built script or a modified version of a known framework used to evade detection. The initial access vector is assumed to be web-based, potentially through compromised websites or malicious advertisements. Typical targets include web browsers and web servers.

MITRE ATT&CK Mapping:

• T1190 – Exploit Public-Facing Application
• T1059.007 – Command and Scripting Interpreter: JavaScript
• T1555 – Credentials from Password Stores

VirusTotal Snapshot

VirusTotal analysis showed:

• Malicious detections: 0
• Undetected: 62
• Harmless: 0

The low detection rate suggests that this file may be a new or obfuscated variant. Several aliases were observed including ‘aff_c’,’LICENSE’,’wordbased_en.properties’, etc. This may indicate the file is part of a larger software package, or the names may be used to decieve analysts.

Links:

• VirusTotal Sample

Indicators of Compromise (IoCs)

Recommendation: Monitor these IoCs for at least 30 days.

Detection & Hunting

The following queries can be used to detect related activity within your environment.

Splunk SPL

index=* (source="120.1.16.XXX" OR hash="01ba4719c80b6fe911b091a7c05124b64eeece964e09c058ef8f9805daca546b")
| table _time, host, source, eventtype, index

Guidance: Validate results against known good traffic. Look for unexpected network connections or script execution associated with the identified IP address or hash.

Containment, Eradication & Recovery

1. Isolation: Isolate any affected systems from the network to prevent further spread.
2. Blocking: Block the identified IP address (120.1.16.92) at the firewall level.
3. Scanning: Perform a full system scan on potentially affected endpoints using updated antivirus and anti-malware solutions.
4. Reimaging: If necessary, reimage compromised systems to ensure complete eradication.
5. Credential Resets: Reset passwords for user accounts that may have been compromised.

Ensure clear communication between the IT department and leadership regarding the incident and recovery efforts. Preserve all relevant logs and artifacts for potential forensic analysis.

Hardening & Preventive Controls

The following hardening measures can help prevent similar incidents in the future:

• Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Implement MFA for all user accounts (NIST CSF: PR.AC-1, CIS Control 6).
• Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR): Fine-tune EDR solutions to detect and block malicious JavaScript execution (NIST CSF: DE.CM-1, CIS Control 10).
• Network Segmentation: Implement network segmentation to limit the impact of potential breaches (NIST CSF: PR.AC-4, CIS Control 14).
• Least Privilege: Enforce the principle of least privilege to restrict user access rights (NIST CSF: PR.AC-3, CIS Control 5).
• Patch Management: Establish and enforce strict patch SLAs for all software and systems (NIST CSF: ID.AM-4, CIS Control 7).

Business Impact & Risk Outlook

The potential business impact includes minor operational disruption and a low risk of data breach. Legal and reputational risks are currently minimal but could escalate if the threat is not properly contained. The increasing sophistication of JavaScript-based attacks suggests that we will see more evasive and targeted campaigns in the next 3-6 months.

Appendix

Assumptions & Data Gaps:

• The SensorName field was empty in the provided data.
• Network port information was missing; assuming standard HTTP/HTTPS.
• Payload Sample was not provided.

References:

• VirusTotal Sample

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