> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://cortex-docs.paloaltonetworks.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://cortex-docs.paloaltonetworks.com/analytics-alerts/alerts-by-name/uncommon-applescript-designed-to-access-credential-files-was-executed-via-the-command-line.md).

# Uncommon AppleScript designed to access credential files was executed via the command line

### Synopsis

| Field                | Value                                                                                                |
| -------------------- | ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| Activation Period    | 14 Days                                                                                              |
| Training Period      | 30 Days                                                                                              |
| Test Period          | N/A (single event)                                                                                   |
| Deduplication Period | 1 Day                                                                                                |
| Required Data        | XDR Agent                                                                                            |
| Detector Tags        | AppleScript Analytics, Sensitive Information Stealing Analytics                                      |
| ATT\&CK Tactic       | Execution (TA0002), Credential Access (TA0006)                                                       |
| ATT\&CK Technique    | Command and Scripting Interpreter: AppleScript (T1059.002), Credentials from Password Stores (T1555) |
| Severity             | Medium                                                                                               |

### Description

The AppleScript interpreter was executed with a script designed to access credential files such as keychains or SSH keys.

### Attacker's Goals

Access stored credentials such as keychains and SSH keys for lateral movement or unauthorized access.

### Investigative actions

* Identify which credential files were targeted (keychain, SSH authorized\_keys, etc.).
* Check if credentials or authentication tokens were extracted.
* Verify the legitimacy of the file access attempt and whether it aligns with the user's normal activity.
* Examine child processes for signs of data exfiltration.


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