CAPEC-556: Replace File Extension Handlers (Version 3.9)
Archived: 2026-04-02 10:38:00 UTC
 Description
When a file is opened, its file handler is checked to determine which program opens the file. File handlers are configuration
properties of many operating systems. Applications can modify the file handler for a given file extension to call an arbitrary
program when a file with the given extension is opened.
 Relationships
This table shows the other attack patterns and high level categories that are related to this attack pattern. These
relationships are defined as ChildOf and ParentOf, and give insight to similar items that may exist at higher and lower levels
of abstraction. In addition, relationships such as CanFollow, PeerOf, and CanAlsoBe are defined to show similar attack
patterns that the user may want to explore.
Nature Type
ChildOf Standard Attack Pattern - A standard level attack pattern in CAPEC is focused on a specific methodology or technique used in an attack. It
This table shows the views that this attack pattern belongs to and top level categories within that view.
 Mitigations
Inspect registry for changes. Limit privileges of user accounts so changes to default file handlers can only be performed by
authorized administrators.
 Taxonomy Mappings
CAPEC mappings to ATT&CK techniques leverage an inheritance model to streamline and minimize direct
CAPEC/ATT&CK mappings. Inheritance of a mapping is indicated by text stating that the parent CAPEC has relevant
ATT&CK mappings. Note that the ATT&CK Enterprise Framework does not use an inheritance model as part of the
mapping to CAPEC.
Relevant to the ATT&CK taxonomy mapping (also see parent)
Entry ID Entry Name
1546.001 Event Triggered Execution:Change Default File Association
 Content History
Submissions
Submission Date Submitter Organization
2015-11-09
(Version 2.7)
CAPEC Content Team The MITRE Corporation
Modifications
Modification Date Modifier Organization
2018-07-31
(Version 2.12)
CAPEC Content Team The MITRE Corporation
Updated References
2019-04-04
(Version 3.1)
CAPEC Content Team The MITRE Corporation
Updated Related_Weaknesses
2020-07-30
(Version 3.3)
CAPEC Content Team The MITRE Corporation
Updated Taxonomy_Mappings
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