Azure Managed Identity Anomaly

Triggers

• Successful login attempts using Azure Managed Identity credentials from unusual IP addresses or locations.
• Usage of Azure Managed Identity to access an unusual subscription, resource type, or service.
• Usage of Azure Managed Identity to perform operations that are not typically associated with the identity.

Possible Root Causes

• Compromised Principal: An attacker has gained access to an Azure Managed Identity and is attempting unauthorized access to sensitive resources.
• Unauthorized Subscription Access: An attacker has obtained valid but unauthorized access to an Azure subscription through a managed identity.
• Misconfigured Permissions: Incorrectly configured Azure Managed Identity permissions are allowing unintended access.
• Phishing Attack: Azure users with managed identities have been targeted by phishing attempts, leading to credential compromise.
• Outdated Security Measures: Legacy configurations or inadequate security controls are allowing unauthorized access.
• Service Compromise: A possible Azure service using a managed identity has been compromised.
• Legitimate Configuration Change: A new setting has been applied to services that use an Azure Managed Identity.

Business Impact

• Unauthorized access to sensitive data and resources, potentially leading to data breaches.
• Security vulnerabilities exploited due to misconfigured managed identities or services using managed identities.
• Unplanned changes to business logic or workflows.
• Potential disruption of critical business services and reputational damage.

Steps to Verify

• Review Azure Activity Logs: Investigate logs for the suspicious event, focusing on the user/service principal and the Managed Identity activity.
• Check Permissions: Investigate the user�s or service principal�s permissions and access levels within Azure.
• Inspect Configuration: Review the Managed Identity configuration and settings for unusual changes.
• Consult Stakeholders: Work with Azure administrators, security teams, and relevant stakeholders to determine the cause and scope of the incident.
• Analyze Authentication Events: Review login attempts and successful authentication events linked to the Managed Identity.
• Perform an Audit: Conduct a thorough audit of Azure subscriptions and resources accessed by the Managed Identity to detect further anomalies.