Executive Summary

• SGI sensors detected network traffic associated with a file identified as ‘standalone-framework.js’ originating from Beijing, China.
• The observed file has a low reputation score and was largely undetected by VirusTotal scanners.
• The likely objective is reconnaissance or a potential dependency confusion attack targeting internal applications.
• The business risk level is considered low, but requires monitoring and further investigation to prevent potential escalation.
• Increased vigilance regarding Javascript-based attacks is warranted in the near term.

Observed Activity (SGI Sensors)

SGI sensors detected outbound TCP traffic containing a file identified as ‘standalone-framework.js’ from an IP address originating from Beijing. The ASN is associated with Beijing Volcano Engine Technology Co., Ltd. The low VirusTotal detection rate and filename suggest a potentially custom or obfuscated Javascript file, possibly used for reconnaissance. Further investigation is needed to determine the file’s exact purpose and potential impact.

Malware/Technique Overview

The observed ‘standalone-framework.js’ file is classified as a low-severity threat. Given the origin and file name, a reconnaissance attempt or a software supply chain attack (dependency confusion) cannot be ruled out. Javascript files can be used to gather information about the target system or application, potentially leading to further exploitation.

• TA0042 – Resource Development
• T1595 – Active Scanning
• T1589 – Gather Victim Identity Information

VirusTotal Snapshot

VirusTotal analysis shows a low detection rate for the file:

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

No prominent vendor names flagged the sample as malicious.

• VirusTotal Sample

Indicators of Compromise (IoCs)

It is recommended to monitor these IoCs for the next 30 days.

Detection & Hunting

Splunk SPL

index=* sourcetype=network_traffic SHA256="01ba4719c80b6fe911b091a7c05124b64eeece964e09c058ef8f9805daca546b"
| table _time, src_ip, dest_ip, file_name

This query searches for network traffic containing the specified SHA256 hash. Validate any positive results to ensure they are not benign internal applications or updates.

Containment, Eradication & Recovery

1. Isolate the affected system from the network to prevent further communication.
2. Block the identified malicious IP address (115.190.11.XXX) at the firewall.
3. Scan the affected system with updated antivirus and anti-malware software.
4. If necessary, reimage the affected system from a known good backup.
5. Reset any compromised credentials, especially those used on the affected system.

Ensure that IT and leadership are informed about the incident and the steps being taken. Preserve all relevant logs and network traffic data for potential forensic analysis.

Hardening & Preventive Controls

1. Implement Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) for all user accounts (NIST CSF: PR.AC-1, CIS Control 6).
2. Tune Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) systems to detect suspicious Javascript execution (NIST CSF: DE.CM-1, CIS Control 8).
3. Implement Network Segmentation to limit the impact of potential breaches (NIST CSF: PR.AC-5, CIS Control 14).
4. Enforce Least Privilege access controls to restrict user permissions (NIST CSF: PR.AC-3, CIS Control 5).
5. Establish and enforce Patch SLAs to ensure timely patching of vulnerabilities (NIST CSF: ID.AM-2, CIS Control 7).

Business Impact & Risk Outlook

The potential business impact includes minor operational disruption and a low risk of data breach. The reputational risk is minimal at this stage. Legal risks are unlikely unless sensitive data was compromised.

We anticipate an increase in Javascript-based reconnaissance and supply chain attacks over the next 3-6 months, targeting web applications and internal systems. Organizations should prioritize hardening their web application security and implementing robust monitoring for suspicious Javascript activity.

Appendix

Assumptions & Data Gaps

• The ‘SensorName’ field was empty; assuming generic network sensor.
• The exact purpose of the ‘standalone-framework.js’ file is unknown without further analysis.
• The target of the traffic is unknown without reviewing internal logs.

References

• VirusTotal Sample

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