Traffic to a web server with an open directory on an unusual port
Description
AlphaSOC detected network traffic to a web server containing an open directory,
in which files and directories are openly accessible and listed for public
viewing. This type of configuration is frequently exploited by threat actors to
distribute malicious content, including malware and phishing toolkits,
especially when the directory contains potentially dangerous file types such as
executables (.exe), JavaScript files (.js), or PHP scripts (.php). By
leveraging open directories, attackers can establish a framework for malware
distribution, enabling both direct file downloads and deceptive tactics that
lead users to interact with malicious content. The system evaluates the severity
of each detection by analyzing additional suspicious characteristics of the
accessed destination. To minimize false positives, the detection algorithm
excludes commonly known open directories that legitimately host Open Source
software and other trusted content.
Impact
Access to open directories can lead to unauthorized data exposure, malware infections, or successful phishing attempts. Attackers may exploit these directories to host and distribute malicious payloads, potentially compromising system integrity, data confidentiality, and user security across the network. This can result in further system breaches, data theft, or ransomware attacks.
Severity
| Severity | Condition |
|---|---|
Informational | A destination with an open directory |
Low | An open directory on an unusual port |
Medium | An open directory containing suspicious files |
High | An open directory on an unusual port containing suspicious files |
Investigation and Remediation
Investigate the accessed open directory to determine its content and potential threats. Analyze network logs to identify other systems that may have interacted with this directory. Block access to the suspicious URL and scan potentially affected systems for malware.