166 terms · 75/46/45
Technique № 014 · class: execution

In-Memory Execution

Executing malicious code in memory without writing files to disk.

Term

description · examples · notes

Executing malicious code in memory without writing files to disk.

Description

Uses PowerShell, WMI, VBScript, or .NET reflection for execution.

Bypasses antivirus scanners that check files on disk.

Memory traces disappear after system restart.

Requires EDR with process behavior monitoring for detection.

Examples

  • PowerShell download cradle — download and execute in memory
  • WMI eventing for persistent fileless execution

Notes

  • Execution technique for fileless-malware threat.

Mentioned in the news

Composite

Threats

used by 4

Defenses

countered by 6