This detection rule monitors for changes in file associations on Windows systems using the built-in `assoc` command. File associations determine which programs are used to open specific file types, and these associations are stored in the Windows Registry. Users and applications with sufficient permissions can modify these associations potentially leading to the execution of arbitrary programs. The rule focuses on process creation events where commands involving the `assoc` utility are executed. It looks for instances where `cmd.exe` is involved, indicating command-line interactions that may alter file association behavior with a strong condition that requires the command line to contain the keyword 'assoc'. This monitoring is essential for detecting potential persistence mechanisms used by attackers to maintain access or control over file execution paths.