Active Directory Threat Detection Best Practices

1. Implement Comprehensive Logging

Enable detailed auditing for critical Active Directory events
Configure logging for:
- Account logon events
- Account management
- Directory service access
- Object access
- Policy changes
Use Advanced Audit Policy Configuration for granular control

Tip: Ensure sufficient storage capacity for extensive logging, and implement log rotation policies.

2. Utilize Security Information and Event Management (SIEM)

Implement a SIEM solution to centralize log collection and analysis
Configure real-time alerting for suspicious activities
Develop custom correlation rules to detect complex attack patterns
Regularly update and tune SIEM rules to address emerging threats

3. Monitor for Suspicious Account Activities

Track and alert on:
- Multiple failed login attempts
- Off-hours access attempts
- Unusual geographic access locations
- Sudden changes in user behavior patterns
Implement User and Entity Behavior Analytics (UEBA) for advanced threat detection

4. Detect Privilege Escalation Attempts

Monitor for unexpected additions to privileged groups
Track changes to Group Policy Objects (GPOs)
Alert on modifications to sensitive AD objects (e.g., AdminSDHolder)
Monitor for the creation of new admin accounts or service accounts

Alert: Any unauthorized changes to privileged groups or critical AD objects should trigger immediate investigation.

5. Implement Network Traffic Analysis

Monitor for unusual LDAP queries or excessive LDAP traffic
Detect potential lateral movement using tools like Zeek or Wireshark
Identify potential command and control (C2) traffic
Monitor for unusual SMB traffic patterns

6. Utilize Built-in Windows Security Features

Enable and configure Windows Defender Advanced Threat Protection (ATP)
Implement and monitor Windows Event Forwarding
Use PowerShell transcription and script block logging
Leverage AppLocker or Windows Defender Application Control for application whitelisting

7. Perform Regular Security Assessments

Conduct periodic Active Directory security audits
Use tools like PingCastle or BloodHound to identify potential attack paths
Perform regular vulnerability scans of domain controllers and member servers
Conduct penetration testing to simulate real-world attacks

8. Monitor for Indicators of Compromise (IoCs)

Maintain and regularly update a list of known IoCs
Implement automated scanning for IoCs in your environment
Subscribe to threat intelligence feeds for up-to-date IoC information
Correlate IoCs with your SIEM data for faster threat detection

9. Implement Honeypots and Canary Tokens

Deploy honeypot accounts to detect unauthorized access attempts
Use canary tokens in sensitive file shares or AD objects
Monitor and alert on any interactions with honeypots or canary tokens

Tip: Honeypots and canary tokens can provide early warning of potential security breaches.

10. Establish a Security Operations Center (SOC)

Create a dedicated team for continuous monitoring and threat response
Develop and maintain incident response playbooks
Implement a 24/7 monitoring schedule for critical alerts
Regularly conduct tabletop exercises to test and improve response procedures