The detection rule focuses on identifying unauthorized enabling of the xp_cmdshell Extended Stored Procedure in Microsoft SQL Server. xp_cmdshell grants the ability to execute system commands via SQL Server, potentially allowing attackers to escalate privileges or maintain persistence after gaining access to a system, as demonstrated in incidents like the BlueSky ransomware attacks. This rule captures event code 15457, which indicates changes to the server configuration where xp_cmdshell is enabled. Although enabling xp_cmdshell by itself is not inherently malicious, its unexpected activation can signify a security threat that warrants further investigation.