Timestomping is a technique that modifies the timestamps of a file (the modify, access, create, and change times), often to mimic files that are in the same folder. This is done, for example, on files that have been modified or created by the adversary so that they do not appear conspicuous to forensic investigators or file analysis tools. Timestomping may be used along with file name [Masquerading](https://attack.mitre.org/techniques/T1036) to hide malware and tools. (Citation: WindowsIR Anti-Forensic Techniques)
Stomps on the access timestamp of a file
Supported Platforms: Linux, macOS
| Name | Description | Type | Default Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| target_filename | Path of file that we are going to stomp on last access time | Path | /opt/filename |
touch -a -t 197001010000.00 #{target_filename}
Stomps on the modification timestamp of a file
Supported Platforms: Linux, macOS
| Name | Description | Type | Default Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| target_filename | Path of file that we are going to stomp on last access time | Path | /opt/filename |
touch -m -t 197001010000.00 #{target_filename}
Stomps on the create timestamp of a file
Setting the creation timestamp requires changing the system clock and reverting. Sudo or root privileges are required to change date. Use with caution.
Supported Platforms: Linux, macOS
| Name | Description | Type | Default Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| target_filename | Path of file that we are going to stomp on last access time | Path | /opt/filename |
NOW=$(date)
date -s "1970-01-01 00:00:00"
touch #{target_filename}
date -s "$NOW"
stat #{target_filename}
Modifies the modify and access timestamps using the timestamps of a specified reference file.
This technique was used by the threat actor Rocke during the compromise of Linux web servers.
Supported Platforms: Linux, macOS
| Name | Description | Type | Default Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| reference_file_path | Path of reference file to read timestamps from | Path | /bin/sh |
| target_file_path | Path of file to modify timestamps of | Path | /opt/filename |
touch -acmr #{reference_file_path} {target_file_path}