LSMS - Linux Security and Monitoring Scripts
Repository Structure
The scripts are located in the directory scripts/. Each script contains a short summary in the header of the file with a description of what it is supposed to do, (if needed) dependencies that have to be installed and (if available) references to where the idea for this script stems from.
Each script has a configuration file in the scripts/config/ directory to configure it. If the configuration file was not found during the execution of the script, the script will fall back to default settings and print out the results. Hence, it is not necessary to provide a configuration file.
The scripts/lib/ directory contains code that is shared between different scripts.
Scripts using a monitor_ prefix hold a state and are only useful for monitoring purposes. A single usage of them for an investigation will only result in showing the current state the Linux system and not changes that might be relevant for the system's security. If you want to establish the current state of your system as benign for these scripts, you can provide the --init argument.
Usage
Take a look at the header of the script you want to execute. It contains a short description what this script is supposed to do and what requirements are needed (if any needed at all). If requirements are needed, install them before running the script.
The shared configuration file scripts/config/config.py contains settings that are used by all scripts. Furthermore, each script can be configured by using the corresponding configuration file in the scripts/config/ directory. If no configuration file was found, a default setting is used and the results are printed out.
Finally, you can run all configured scripts by executing start_search.py (which is located in the main directory) or by executing each script manually. A Python3 interpreter is needed to run the scripts.
Monitoring
If you want to use the scripts to monitor your Linux system constantly, you have to perform the following steps:
Set up a notification channel that is supported by the scripts (currently printing out, mail, or AlertR).
Configure the scripts that you want to run using the configuration files in the
scripts/config/directory.Execute
start_search.pywith the--initargument to initialize the scripts with themonitor_prefix and let them establish a state of your system. However, this assumes that your system is currently uncompromised. If you are unsure of this, you should verify its current state.Set up a cron job as
rootuser that executesstart_search.py(e.g.,0 * * * * root /opt/LSMS/start_search.pyto start the search hourly).
List of Scripts
| Name | Script |
|---|---|
| Monitoring cron files | monitor_cron.py |
| Monitoring /etc/hosts file | monitor_hosts_file.py |
| Monitoring /etc/ld.so.preload file | monitor_ld_preload.py |
| Monitoring /etc/passwd file | monitor_passwd.py |
| Monitoring modules | monitor_modules.py |
| Monitoring SSH authorized_keys files | monitor_ssh_authorized_keys.py |
| Monitoring systemd unit files | monitor_systemd_units.py |
| Search executables in /dev/shm | search_dev_shm.py |
| Search fileless programs (memfd_create) | search_memfd_create.py |
| Search hidden ELF files | search_hidden_exe.py |
| Search immutable files | search_immutable_files.py |
| Search kernel thread impersonations | search_non_kthreads.py |
| Search processes that were started by a now disconnected SSH session | search_ssh_leftover_processes.py |
| Search running deleted programs | search_deleted_exe.py |
| Test script to check if alerting works | test_alert.py |
| Verify integrity of installed .deb packages | verify_deb_packages.py |
Danial Zahoor
Professional Ethical Hacker and Cybersecurity Researcher with a proven track record in dismantling online threats. Successfully neutralized 4 scammer networks, thwarted 13 phishing schemes, and disrupted 4 kidnapper networks. Committed to ensuring online safety and security, I leverage my expertise to protect individuals and organizations from digital threats. Passionate about cybersecurity education and empowering others to stay safe online.
