216.73.216.6

T1059.008: Network Device CLI

View on MITRE ATT&CK The MITRE Corporation · Published 20/10/2020 02:09 · Modified 27/03/2026 01:10

Essential information

MITRE technique ID
T1059.008
Confidence
100/100
Revoked
No
Published
20/10/2020 02:09
Modified
27/03/2026 01:10
Author / Source
The MITRE Corporation

Aliases

T1059.008

Platforms

Network Devices

Description

Adversaries may abuse scripting or built-in command line interpreters (CLI) on network devices to execute malicious command and payloads. The CLI is the primary means through which users and administrators interact with the device in order to view system information, modify device operations, or perform diagnostic and administrative functions. CLIs typically contain various permission levels required for different commands. Scripting interpreters automate tasks and extend functionality beyond the command set included in the network OS. The CLI and scripting interpreter are accessible through a direct console connection, or through remote means, such as telnet or [SSH](https://attack.mitre.org/techniques/T1021/004). Adversaries can use the network CLI to change how network devices behave and operate. The CLI may be used to manipulate traffic flows to intercept or manipulate data, modify startup configuration parameters to load malicious system software, or to disable security features or logging to avoid detection.(Citation: Cisco Synful Knock Evolution)

Kill chain phases

Kill chainPhase
mitre-attack execution

Marking (TLP)

TLP:CLEAR Copyright 2015-2025, The MITRE Corporation. MITRE ATT&CK and ATT&CK are registered trademarks of The MITRE Corporation.

External references