Observed Activity: Suspicious JavaScript Framework Deployment

Discover fresh insights and innovative ideas by exploring our blog,  where we share creative perspectives

Observed Activity: Suspicious JavaScript Framework Deployment

Executive Summary

  • SGI sensors detected a file identified as standalone-framework.js originating from IP address 165.22.217.96.
  • The file, while currently undetected by most AV vendors on VirusTotal, has a negative reputation score.
  • The likely objective is currently unknown, but the presence of a suspicious framework suggests potential reconnaissance or preparation for a larger attack.
  • The business risk is currently low, but escalation is possible if further malicious activity is detected.

Organizations should immediately investigate the source and purpose of this JavaScript framework and implement appropriate security controls to prevent further compromise.

Observed Activity (SGI Sensors)

ObservedAt SensorName SourceIP SourceASN SourceGeo Protocol/Port PayloadPresence Hash
2025-11-10T08:57:02.642Z 165.22.217.XXX AS14061 IN tcp/ Yes 01ba4719c80b6fe911b091a7c05124b64eeece964e09c058ef8f9805daca546b

On November 10, 2025, SGI sensors detected a suspicious file transfer from IP address 165.22.217.96, associated with DigitalOcean in India. The transferred file, standalone-framework.js, was identified as a JavaScript framework. The low VirusTotal detection rate, coupled with a negative reputation score, raises concerns about its potential malicious intent and warrants further investigation.

Malware/Technique Overview

Based on the file name and associated VirusTotal data, the observed activity involves the deployment of a potentially malicious JavaScript framework. The framework may be used for various purposes, including:

  • Reconnaissance (TA0007)
  • Credential Harvesting (T1081)
  • Code Injection (T1505)
  • Exfiltration Over Web Service (T1567)

VirusTotal Snapshot

VirusTotal analysis of the file (SHA256: 01ba4719c80b6fe911b091a7c05124b64eeece964e09c058ef8f9805daca546b) shows:

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

While currently undetected by most vendors, the file’s negative reputation score warrants caution. Aliases such as .env, aff_c, and references to Sentry internally further increase suspicion.

Indicators of Compromise (IoCs)

Type Value Confidence FirstSeen Notes
ip 165.22.217.XXX medium 2025-11-10T08:57:02.642Z AS14061 DigitalOcean, LLC
hash 01ba4719c80b6fe911b091a7c05124b64eeece964e09c058ef8f9805daca546b high 2025-11-10T08:57:02.642Z SHA256 from VirusTotal

It is recommended to monitor these IoCs for at least 30 days.

Detection & Hunting

Use the following queries to detect similar activity in your environment:

Splunk

index=* hash="01ba4719c80b6fe911b091a7c05124b64eeece964e09c058ef8f9805daca546b" OR source_ip="165.22.217.0/24"

Elastic/Kibana KQL

hash:"01ba4719c80b6fe911b091a7c05124b64eeece964e09c058ef8f9805daca546b" OR source.ip:"165.22.217.0/24"

Validate any positive hits by checking file origins and process execution chains. False positives may occur with legitimate JavaScript frameworks; investigate thoroughly.

Containment, Eradication & Recovery

  1. Isolate affected systems from the network to prevent further communication.
  2. Block the identified IP address (165.22.217.96) at the firewall.
  3. Scan affected systems with updated antivirus and anti-malware solutions.
  4. If necessary, reimage compromised systems from a known good backup.
  5. Reset any potentially compromised credentials.

Communicate the incident to IT and leadership teams. Preserve evidence for potential forensic analysis.

Hardening & Preventive Controls

  • Implement Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) for all user accounts (NIST CSF: PR.AC-1, CIS Control 6).
  • Tune Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) solutions to detect suspicious JavaScript activity (NIST CSF: DE.CM-1, CIS Control 10).
  • Enforce the principle of least privilege to limit the impact of compromised accounts (NIST CSF: PR.AC-3, CIS Control 5).
  • Implement a robust patch management process with defined SLAs (NIST CSF: ID.AM-4, CIS Control 7).

Business Impact & Risk Outlook

Potential business impacts include operational disruption, data breach, and reputational damage. The risk level is currently low but could escalate if the framework is used for malicious purposes.

Expect to see an increase in similar attacks leveraging JavaScript frameworks for reconnaissance and initial access in the next 3-6 months.

Appendix

Assumptions & Data Gaps: Missing fields include the specific sensor name and detailed payload content.

References:

This is a developing situation. SGI is actively monitoring for related activity and will provide updates as necessary. Protect your organization with proactive security measures. Request an Incident Readiness Review to ensure your defenses are prepared. Benefit from 24/7 Monitoring with Sentry365™ for real-time threat detection. Get expert guidance with vCISO Advisory services.

Leave A Comment

Create your account