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VMware vSphere 6.7 Photon OS Security Technical Implementation Guide

  • Version/Release: V1R6
  • Published: 2023-06-16
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This Security Technical Implementation Guide is published as a tool to improve the security of Department of Defense (DOD) information systems. The requirements are derived from the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) 800-53 and related documents. Comments or proposed revisions to this document should be sent via email to the following address: disa.stig_spt@mail.mil.
b
The Photon operating system must be configured to offload audit logs to a syslog server.
AU-4 - Medium - CCI-001851 - V-239072 - SV-239072r877390_rule
RMF Control
AU-4
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-001851
Version
PHTN-67-000129
Vuln IDs
  • V-239072
Rule IDs
  • SV-239072r877390_rule
Information stored in one location is vulnerable to accidental or incidental deletion or alteration. Offloading is a common process in information systems with limited audit storage capacity. Satisfies: SRG-OS-000342-GPOS-00133, SRG-OS-000447-GPOS-00201
Checks: C-42283r675022_chk

At the command prompt, execute the following command: # grep -v "^#" /etc/vmware-syslog/stig-services-auditd.conf Expected result: input(type="imfile" File="/var/log/audit/audit.log" Tag="auditd" Severity="info" Facility="local0") If the file does not exist, this is a finding. If the output of the command does not match the expected result above, this is a finding.

Fix: F-42242r840144_fix

Open /etc/vmware-syslog/stig-services-auditd.conf with a text editor. Create the file if it does not exist. Set the contents of the file as follows: input(type="imfile" File="/var/log/audit/audit.log" Tag="auditd" Severity="info" Facility="local0")

b
The Photon operating system must audit all account creations.
AC-2 - Medium - CCI-000018 - V-239073 - SV-239073r816595_rule
RMF Control
AC-2
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-000018
Version
PHTN-67-000001
Vuln IDs
  • V-239073
Rule IDs
  • SV-239073r816595_rule
Once an attacker establishes access to a system, the attacker often attempts to create a persistent method of reestablishing access. One way to accomplish this is for the attacker to create an account. Auditing account creation actions provides logging that can be used for forensic purposes.
Checks: C-42284r816593_chk

At the command line, execute the following command: # auditctl -l | grep -E "(useradd|groupadd)" Expected result: -w /usr/sbin/useradd -p x -k useradd -w /usr/sbin/groupadd -p x -k groupadd If either "useradd" or "groupadd" are not listed with a permissions filter of at least "x", this is a finding. Note: This check depends on the auditd service to be in a running state for accurate results. Enabling the auditd service is done as part of a separate control.

Fix: F-42243r816594_fix

Open /etc/audit/rules.d/audit.STIG.rules with a text editor and add the following lines: -w /usr/sbin/useradd -p x -k useradd -w /usr/sbin/groupadd -p x -k groupadd At the command line, execute the following command: # /sbin/augenrules --load

b
The Photon operating system must automatically lock an account when three unsuccessful logon attempts occur.
AC-7 - Medium - CCI-000044 - V-239074 - SV-239074r856034_rule
RMF Control
AC-7
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-000044
Version
PHTN-67-000002
Vuln IDs
  • V-239074
Rule IDs
  • SV-239074r856034_rule
By limiting the number of failed logon attempts, the risk of unauthorized system access via user password guessing, otherwise known as brute-force attacks, is reduced. Limits are imposed by locking the account. Satisfies: SRG-OS-000021-GPOS-00005, SRG-OS-000329-GPOS-00128
Checks: C-42285r675028_chk

At the command line, execute the following command: # grep pam_tally2 /etc/pam.d/system-auth|grep --color=always "deny=." Expected result: auth    required        pam_tally2.so file=/var/log/tallylog deny=3 onerr=fail even_deny_root unlock_time=86400 root_unlock_time=300 If the output does not match the expected result, this is a finding.

Fix: F-42244r675029_fix

Open /etc/pam.d/system-auth with a text editor. Add the following line after the last auth statement: auth    required        pam_tally2.so file=/var/log/tallylog deny=3 onerr=fail even_deny_root unlock_time=86400 root_unlock_time=300

b
The Photon operating system must display the Standard Mandatory DoD Notice and Consent Banner before granting SSH access.
AC-8 - Medium - CCI-000048 - V-239075 - SV-239075r675033_rule
RMF Control
AC-8
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-000048
Version
PHTN-67-000003
Vuln IDs
  • V-239075
Rule IDs
  • SV-239075r675033_rule
Display of a standardized and approved use notification before granting access to the operating system ensures privacy and security notification verbiage used is consistent with applicable federal laws, Executive Orders, directives, policies, regulations, standards, and guidance. Satisfies: SRG-OS-000023-GPOS-00006, SRG-OS-000228-GPOS-00088
Checks: C-42286r675031_chk

At the command line, execute the following command: # sshd -T|&grep -i Banner Expected result: banner /etc/issue If the output does not match the expected result, this is a finding. Open /etc/issue with a text editor. If the file does not contain the Standard Mandatory DoD Notice and Consent Banner, this is a finding.

Fix: F-42245r675032_fix

At the command line, execute the following commands: # cp /etc/issue.DoD /etc/issue Open /etc/ssh/sshd_config with a text editor and ensure that the "Banner" line is uncommented and set to the following: Banner /etc/issue Open /etc/issue with a text editor. Ensure that the file contains the Standard Mandatory DoD Notice and Consent Banner: You are accessing a U.S. Government (USG) Information System (IS) that is provided for USG-authorized use only. By using this IS (which includes any device attached to this IS), you consent to the following conditions: -The USG routinely intercepts and monitors communications on this IS for purposes including, but not limited to, penetration testing, COMSEC monitoring, network operations and defense, personnel misconduct (PM), law enforcement (LE), and counterintelligence (CI) investigations. -At any time, the USG may inspect and seize data stored on this IS. -Communications using, or data stored on, this IS are not private, are subject to routine monitoring, interception, and search, and may be disclosed or used for any USG authorized purpose. -This IS includes security measures (e.g., authentication and access controls) to protect USG interests--not for your personal benefit or privacy. -Notwithstanding the above, using this IS does not constitute consent to PM, LE or CI investigative searching or monitoring of the content of privileged communications, or work product, related to personal representation or services by attorneys, psychotherapists, or clergy, and their assistants. Such communications and work product are private and confidential. See User Agreement for details. At the command line, execute the following command: # service sshd reload

b
The Photon operating system must limit the number of concurrent sessions to 10 for all accounts and/or account types.
AC-10 - Medium - CCI-000054 - V-239076 - SV-239076r877399_rule
RMF Control
AC-10
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-000054
Version
PHTN-67-000004
Vuln IDs
  • V-239076
Rule IDs
  • SV-239076r877399_rule
Operating system management includes the ability to control the number of users and user sessions that utilize an operating system. Limiting the number of allowed users and sessions per user is helpful in reducing the risks related to denial-of-service attacks.
Checks: C-42287r675034_chk

At the command line, execute the following command: # grep "^[^#].*maxlogins.*" /etc/security/limits.conf Expected result: *              hard    maxlogins      10 If the output does not match the expected result, this is a finding. Note: The expected result may be repeated multiple times.

Fix: F-42246r675035_fix

At the command line, execute the following command: # echo '*              hard    maxlogins      10' >> /etc/security/limits.conf

b
The Photon operating system must set a session inactivity timeout of 15 minutes or less.
AC-11 - Medium - CCI-000057 - V-239077 - SV-239077r856035_rule
RMF Control
AC-11
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-000057
Version
PHTN-67-000005
Vuln IDs
  • V-239077
Rule IDs
  • SV-239077r856035_rule
A session timeout is an action taken when a session goes idle for any reason. Rather than relying on the user to manually disconnect their session prior to going idle, the Photon operating system must be able to identify when a session has idled and take action to terminate the session. Satisfies: SRG-OS-000029-GPOS-00010, SRG-OS-000126-GPOS-00066, SRG-OS-000279-GPOS-00109
Checks: C-42288r675037_chk

At the command line, execute the following command: # cat /etc/profile.d/tmout.sh Expected result: TMOUT=900 readonly TMOUT export TMOUT mesg n 2>/dev/null If the file "tmout.sh" does not exist or the output does not look like the expected result, this is a finding.

Fix: F-42247r675038_fix

Open /etc/profile.d/tmout.sh with a text editor and set its content to the following: TMOUT=900 readonly TMOUT export TMOUT mesg n 2>/dev/null

b
The Photon operating system must have the sshd SyslogFacility set to "authpriv".
AC-17 - Medium - CCI-000067 - V-239078 - SV-239078r675042_rule
RMF Control
AC-17
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-000067
Version
PHTN-67-000006
Vuln IDs
  • V-239078
Rule IDs
  • SV-239078r675042_rule
Automated monitoring of remote access sessions allows organizations to detect cyberattacks and ensure ongoing compliance with remote access policies by auditing connection activities.
Checks: C-42289r675040_chk

At the command line, execute the following command: # sshd -T|&grep -i SyslogFacility Expected result: syslogfacility AUTHPRIV If there is no output or if the output does not match expected result, this is a finding.

Fix: F-42248r675041_fix

Open /etc/ssh/sshd_config with a text editor. Ensure that the "SyslogFacility" line is uncommented and set to the following: SyslogFacility AUTHPRIV At the command line, execute the following command: # service sshd reload

b
The Photon operating system must have sshd authentication logging enabled.
AC-17 - Medium - CCI-000067 - V-239079 - SV-239079r675045_rule
RMF Control
AC-17
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-000067
Version
PHTN-67-000007
Vuln IDs
  • V-239079
Rule IDs
  • SV-239079r675045_rule
Automated monitoring of remote access sessions allows organizations to detect cyberattacks and ensure ongoing compliance with remote access policies by auditing connection activities. Shipping sshd authentication events to syslog allows organizations to use their log aggregators to correlate forensic activities among multiple systems.
Checks: C-42290r675043_chk

At the command line, execute the following command: # grep "^authpriv" /etc/rsyslog.conf Expected result: authpriv.* /var/log/audit/sshinfo.log If the command does not return any output, this is a finding.

Fix: F-42249r675044_fix

Open /etc/rsyslog.conf with a text editor and locate the following line: $IncludeConfig /etc/vmware-syslog/syslog.conf Ensure that the following entry is put beneath the stated line and before the "# vmware services" line. authpriv.* /var/log/audit/sshinfo.log If the following line is at the end of the file, it must be removed or commented out: auth.* /var/log/auth.log At the command line, execute the following command: # systemctl restart syslog # service sshd reload

b
The Photon operating system must have the sshd LogLevel set to "INFO".
AC-17 - Medium - CCI-000067 - V-239080 - SV-239080r675048_rule
RMF Control
AC-17
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-000067
Version
PHTN-67-000008
Vuln IDs
  • V-239080
Rule IDs
  • SV-239080r675048_rule
Automated monitoring of remote access sessions allows organizations to detect cyberattacks and ensure ongoing compliance with remote access policies by auditing connection activities. The INFO LogLevel is required, at least, to ensure the capturing of failed login events.
Checks: C-42291r675046_chk

At the command line, execute the following command: # sshd -T|&grep -i LogLevel Expected result: LogLevel INFO If the output does not match the expected result, this is a finding.

Fix: F-42250r675047_fix

Open /etc/ssh/sshd_config with a text editor. Ensure that the "LogLevel" line is uncommented and set to the following: LogLevel INFO At the command line, execute the following command: # service sshd reload

c
The Photon operating system must configure sshd to use approved encryption algorithms.
AC-17 - High - CCI-000068 - V-239081 - SV-239081r877398_rule
RMF Control
AC-17
Severity
High
CCI
CCI-000068
Version
PHTN-67-000009
Vuln IDs
  • V-239081
Rule IDs
  • SV-239081r877398_rule
Without confidentiality protection mechanisms, unauthorized individuals may gain access to sensitive information via a remote access session. OpenSSH on the Photon operating system is compiled with a FIPS-validated cryptographic module. The "FipsMode" setting controls whether this module is initialized and used in FIPS 140-2 mode. Satisfies: SRG-OS-000033-GPOS-00014, SRG-OS-000250-GPOS-00093, SRG-OS-000393-GPOS-00173, SRG-OS-000396-GPOS-00176, SRG-OS-000423-GPOS-00187
Checks: C-42292r816596_chk

At the command line, execute the following command: # sshd -T|&grep -i FipsMode Expected result: fipsmode yes If the output does not match the expected result, this is a finding.

Fix: F-42251r675050_fix

Open /etc/ssh/sshd_config with a text editor. Ensure that the "FipsMode" line is uncommented and set to the following: FipsMode yes At the command line, execute the following command: # service sshd reload

b
The Photon operating system must configure auditd to log to disk.
AU-3 - Medium - CCI-000130 - V-239082 - SV-239082r675054_rule
RMF Control
AU-3
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-000130
Version
PHTN-67-000010
Vuln IDs
  • V-239082
Rule IDs
  • SV-239082r675054_rule
Without establishing what type of events occurred, it would be difficult to establish, correlate, and investigate the events leading up to an outage or attack. Audit record content must be shipped to a central location, but it must also be logged locally. Satisfies: SRG-OS-000037-GPOS-00015, SRG-OS-000039-GPOS-00017, SRG-OS-000040-GPOS-00018, SRG-OS-000041-GPOS-00019
Checks: C-42293r675052_chk

At the command line, execute the following command: # grep "^write_logs" /etc/audit/auditd.conf Expected result: write_logs = yes If there is no output, this is not a finding. If the output does not match the expected result, this is a finding.

Fix: F-42252r675053_fix

Open /etc/audit/auditd.conf with a text editor. Ensure that the "write_logs" line is uncommented and set to the following: write_logs = yes At the command line, execute the following command: # service auditd reload

b
The Photon operating system must configure auditd to use the correct log format.
AU-3 - Medium - CCI-000131 - V-239083 - SV-239083r675057_rule
RMF Control
AU-3
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-000131
Version
PHTN-67-000011
Vuln IDs
  • V-239083
Rule IDs
  • SV-239083r675057_rule
To compile an accurate risk assessment and provide forensic analysis, it is essential for security personnel to know exact, unfiltered details of the event in question.
Checks: C-42294r675055_chk

At the command line, execute the following command: # grep "^log_format" /etc/audit/auditd.conf Expected result: log_format = RAW If there is no output, this is not a finding. If the output does not match the expected result, this is a finding.

Fix: F-42253r675056_fix

Open /etc/audit/auditd.conf with a text editor. Ensure that the "log_format" line is uncommented and set to the following: log_format = RAW At the command line, execute the following command: # service auditd reload

b
The Photon operating system must be configured to audit the execution of privileged functions.
AU-3 - Medium - CCI-000135 - V-239084 - SV-239084r856037_rule
RMF Control
AU-3
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-000135
Version
PHTN-67-000012
Vuln IDs
  • V-239084
Rule IDs
  • SV-239084r856037_rule
Misuse of privileged functions, either intentionally or unintentionally by authorized users, or by unauthorized external entities that have compromised information system accounts, is a serious and ongoing concern and can have significant adverse impacts on organizations. Auditing all actions by superusers is one way to detect such misuse and identify the risk from insider threats and the advanced persistent threat. Satisfies: SRG-OS-000042-GPOS-00020, SRG-OS-000392-GPOS-00172
Checks: C-42295r821353_chk

At the command line, execute the following command: # auditctl -l | grep execve Expected result: -a always,exit -F arch=b32 -S execve -C uid!=euid -F euid=0 execpriv -a always,exit -F arch=b64 -S execve -C uid!=euid -F euid=0 execpriv -a always,exit -F arch=b32 -S execve -C gid!=egid -F egid=0 execpriv -a always,exit -F arch=b64 -S execve -C gid!=egid -F egid=0 execpriv If the output does not match the expected result, this is a finding. Note: This check depends on the auditd service to be in a running state for accurate results. Enabling the auditd service is done as part of a separate control.

Fix: F-42254r816599_fix

Open /etc/audit/rules.d/audit.STIG.rules with a text editor and add the following lines: -a always,exit -F arch=b32 -S execve -C uid!=euid -F euid=0 -k execpriv -a always,exit -F arch=b64 -S execve -C uid!=euid -F euid=0 -k execpriv -a always,exit -F arch=b32 -S execve -C gid!=egid -F egid=0 -k execpriv -a always,exit -F arch=b64 -S execve -C gid!=egid -F egid=0 -k execpriv At the command line, execute the following command: # /sbin/augenrules --load

b
The Photon operating system audit log must log space limit problems to syslog.
AU-5 - Medium - CCI-000139 - V-239085 - SV-239085r856038_rule
RMF Control
AU-5
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-000139
Version
PHTN-67-000013
Vuln IDs
  • V-239085
Rule IDs
  • SV-239085r856038_rule
It is critical for the appropriate personnel to be aware if a system is at risk of failing to process audit logs as required. Without this notification, the security personnel may be unaware of an impending failure of the audit capability, and system operation may be adversely affected. Satisfies: SRG-OS-000046-GPOS-00022, SRG-OS-000344-GPOS-00135
Checks: C-42296r675061_chk

At the command line, execute the following command: # grep "^space_left_action" /etc/audit/auditd.conf Expected result: space_left_action = SYSLOG If the output does not match the expected result, this is a finding.

Fix: F-42255r675062_fix

Open /etc/audit/auditd.conf with a text editor. Ensure that the "space_left_action" line is uncommented and set to the following: space_left_action = SYSLOG At the command line, execute the following command: # service auditd reload

b
The Photon operating system audit log must attempt to log audit failures to syslog.
AU-5 - Medium - CCI-000140 - V-239086 - SV-239086r675066_rule
RMF Control
AU-5
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-000140
Version
PHTN-67-000014
Vuln IDs
  • V-239086
Rule IDs
  • SV-239086r675066_rule
It is critical for the appropriate personnel to be aware if a system is at risk of failing to process audit logs as required. Without this notification, the security personnel may be unaware of an impending failure of the audit capability, and system operation may be adversely affected.
Checks: C-42297r675064_chk

At the command line, execute the following commands: # grep -E "^disk_full_action|^disk_error_action|^admin_space_left_action" /etc/audit/auditd.conf If any of the above parameters are not set to SYSLOG or are missing, this is a finding.

Fix: F-42256r675065_fix

Open /etc/audit/auditd.conf with a text editor. Ensure that the following lines are present, not duplicated, and not commented: disk_full_action = SYSLOG disk_error_action = SYSLOG admin_space_left_action = SYSLOG At the command line, execute the following command: # service auditd reload

b
The Photon operating system audit log must have correct permissions.
AU-9 - Medium - CCI-000162 - V-239087 - SV-239087r675069_rule
RMF Control
AU-9
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-000162
Version
PHTN-67-000015
Vuln IDs
  • V-239087
Rule IDs
  • SV-239087r675069_rule
Audit information includes all information (e.g., audit records, audit settings, audit reports) needed to successfully audit operating system activity. Unauthorized disclosure of audit records can reveal system and configuration data to attackers, thus compromising its confidentiality.
Checks: C-42298r675067_chk

At the command line, execute the following command: # (audit_log_file=$(grep "^log_file" /etc/audit/auditd.conf|sed s/^[^\/]*//) && if [ -f "${audit_log_file}" ] ; then printf "Log(s) found in "${audit_log_file%/*}":\n"; stat -c "%n permissions are %a" ${audit_log_file%}*; else printf "audit log file(s) not found\n"; fi) If the permissions on any audit log file is more permissive than 0600, this is a finding.

Fix: F-42257r675068_fix

At the command line, execute the following command: # chmod 0600 <audit log file> Replace <audit log file> with the log files more permissive than 0600.

b
The Photon operating system audit log must be owned by root.
AU-9 - Medium - CCI-000163 - V-239088 - SV-239088r675072_rule
RMF Control
AU-9
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-000163
Version
PHTN-67-000016
Vuln IDs
  • V-239088
Rule IDs
  • SV-239088r675072_rule
Audit information includes all information (e.g., audit records, audit settings, audit reports) needed to successfully audit operating system activity. Unauthorized disclosure of audit records can reveal system and configuration data to attackers, thus compromising its confidentiality.
Checks: C-42299r675070_chk

At the command line, execute the following command: # (audit_log_file=$(grep "^log_file" /etc/audit/auditd.conf|sed s/^[^\/]*//) &amp;&amp; if [ -f "${audit_log_file}" ] ; then printf "Log(s) found in "${audit_log_file%/*}":\n"; stat -c "%n is owned by %U" ${audit_log_file%}*; else printf "audit log file(s) not found\n"; fi) If any audit log file is not owned by root, this is a finding.

Fix: F-42258r675071_fix

At the command line, execute the following command: # chown root:root <audit log file> Replace <audit log file> with the log files not owned by root.

b
The Photon operating system audit log must be group-owned by root.
AU-9 - Medium - CCI-000164 - V-239089 - SV-239089r675075_rule
RMF Control
AU-9
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-000164
Version
PHTN-67-000017
Vuln IDs
  • V-239089
Rule IDs
  • SV-239089r675075_rule
Audit information includes all information (e.g., audit records, audit settings, audit reports) needed to successfully audit operating system activity. Unauthorized disclosure of audit records can reveal system and configuration data to attackers, thus compromising its confidentiality.
Checks: C-42300r675073_chk

At the command line, execute the following command: # (audit_log_file=$(grep "^log_file" /etc/audit/auditd.conf|sed s/^[^\/]*//) &amp;&amp; if [ -f "${audit_log_file}" ] ; then printf "Log(s) found in "${audit_log_file%/*}":\n"; stat -c "%n is group owned by %G" ${audit_log_file%}*; else printf "audit log file(s) not found\n"; fi) If any audit log file is not group-owned by root, this is a finding.

Fix: F-42259r675074_fix

At the command line, execute the following command: # chown root:root <audit log file> Replace <audit log file> with the log files not group owned by root.

b
The Photon operating system must have the auditd service running.
AU-3 - Medium - CCI-000135 - V-239090 - SV-239090r856039_rule
RMF Control
AU-3
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-000135
Version
PHTN-67-000018
Vuln IDs
  • V-239090
Rule IDs
  • SV-239090r856039_rule
Without the capability to generate audit records, it would be difficult to establish, correlate, and investigate the events relating to an incident or identify those responsible for one. To that end, the auditd service must be configured to start automatically and be running at all times. Satisfies: SRG-OS-000062-GPOS-00031, SRG-OS-000042-GPOS-00021, SRG-OS-000255-GPOS-00096, SRG-OS-000363-GPOS-00150, SRG-OS-000365-GPOS-00152, SRG-OS-000445-GPOS-00199, SRG-OS-000446-GPOS-00200, SRG-OS-000461-GPOS-00205, SRG-OS-000465-GPOS-00209, SRG-OS-000467-GPOS-00211, SRG-OS-000474-GPOS-00219, SRG-OS-000475-GPOS-00220
Checks: C-42301r675076_chk

At the command line, execute the following command: # service auditd status | grep running If the service is not running, this is a finding.

Fix: F-42260r675077_fix

At the command line, execute the following command: # systemctl enable auditd.service # service auditd start

b
The Photon operating system must allow only the ISSM (or individuals or roles appointed by the ISSM) to select which auditable events are to be audited.
AU-12 - Medium - CCI-000171 - V-239091 - SV-239091r675081_rule
RMF Control
AU-12
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-000171
Version
PHTN-67-000019
Vuln IDs
  • V-239091
Rule IDs
  • SV-239091r675081_rule
Without the capability to restrict the roles and individuals that can select which events are audited, unauthorized personnel may be able to prevent the auditing of critical events. Misconfigured audits may degrade the system's performance by overwhelming the audit log. Misconfigured audits may also make it more difficult to establish, correlate, and investigate the events relating to an incident or identify those responsible for one.
Checks: C-42302r675079_chk

At the command line, execute the following command: # find /etc/audit/* -type f -exec stat -c "%n permissions are %a" {} $1\; If the permissions of any files are more permissive than 640, this is a finding.

Fix: F-42261r675080_fix

At the command line, execute the following command: # chmod 640 <file> Replace <file> with any file with incorrect permissions.

b
The Photon operating system must generate audit records when successful/unsuccessful attempts to access privileges occur.
AU-12 - Medium - CCI-000172 - V-239092 - SV-239092r816603_rule
RMF Control
AU-12
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-000172
Version
PHTN-67-000020
Vuln IDs
  • V-239092
Rule IDs
  • SV-239092r816603_rule
The changing of file permissions could indicate that a user is attempting to gain access to information that would otherwise be disallowed. Auditing DAC modifications can facilitate the identification of patterns of abuse among both authorized and unauthorized users. Satisfies: SRG-OS-000064-GPOS-00033, SRG-OS-000462-GPOS-00206
Checks: C-42303r816601_chk

At the command line, execute the following command: # auditctl -l | grep chmod Expected result: -a always,exit -F arch=b64 -S chmod,fchmod,chown,fchown,fchownat,fchmodat -F auid&gt;=1000 -F auid!=-1 -F key=perm_mod -a always,exit -F arch=b64 -S chmod,fchmod,chown,fchown,lchown,setxattr,lsetxattr,fsetxattr,removexattr,lremovexattr,fremovexattr,fchownat,fchmodat -F key=perm_mod -a always,exit -F arch=b32 -S chmod,fchmod,fchown,chown,fchownat,fchmodat -F auid&gt;=1000 -F auid!=-1 -F key=perm_mod -a always,exit -F arch=b32 -S chmod,lchown,fchmod,fchown,chown,setxattr,lsetxattr,fsetxattr,removexattr,lremovexattr,fremovexattr,fchownat,fchmodat -F key=perm_mod If the output does not match the expected result, this is a finding. Note: This check depends on the auditd service to be in a running state for accurate results. Enabling the auditd service is done as part of a separate control.

Fix: F-42262r816602_fix

Open /etc/audit/rules.d/audit.STIG.rules with a text editor and add the following lines: -a always,exit -F arch=b64 -S chmod,fchmod,chown,fchown,fchownat,fchmodat -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=4294967295 -k perm_mod -a always,exit -F arch=b64 -S chmod,fchmod,chown,fchown,lchown,setxattr,lsetxattr,fsetxattr,removexattr,lremovexattr,fremovexattr,fchownat,fchmodat -k perm_mod -a always,exit -F arch=b32 -S chmod,fchmod,fchown,chown,fchownat,fchmodat -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=4294967295 -k perm_mod -a always,exit -F arch=b32 -S chmod,lchown,fchmod,fchown,chown,setxattr,lsetxattr,fsetxattr,removexattr,lremovexattr,fremovexattr,fchownat,fchmodat -k perm_mod At the command line, execute the following command: # /sbin/augenrules --load

b
The Photon operating system must enforce password complexity by requiring that at least one uppercase character be used.
IA-5 - Medium - CCI-000192 - V-239093 - SV-239093r863026_rule
RMF Control
IA-5
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-000192
Version
PHTN-67-000021
Vuln IDs
  • V-239093
Rule IDs
  • SV-239093r863026_rule
Use of a complex password helps to increase the time and resources required to compromise the password. Password complexity, or strength, is a measure of the effectiveness of a password in resisting attempts at guessing and brute-force attacks.
Checks: C-42304r863025_chk

At the command line, execute the following command: # grep "^password requisite pam_cracklib.so" /etc/pam.d/system-password|grep --color=always "enforce_for_root" Expected result: password requisite pam_cracklib.so dcredit=-1 ucredit=-1 lcredit=-1 ocredit=-1 minlen=8 minclass=4 difok=4 retry=3 maxsequence=0 enforce_for_root If the output does not match the expected result, this is a finding. NOTE: After the fix is implemented, the check will not pass until either a reboot is performed or both files are modified, which happens automatically on reboot.

Fix: F-42263r816604_fix

Open /etc/applmgmt/appliance/system-password with a text editor. Comment out any existing "pam_cracklib.so" line and add the following: password requisite pam_cracklib.so dcredit=-1 ucredit=-1 lcredit=-1 ocredit=-1 minlen=8 minclass=4 difok=4 retry=3 maxsequence=0 enforce_for_root Save and close.

b
The Photon operating system must enforce password complexity by requiring that at least one lowercase character be used.
IA-5 - Medium - CCI-000193 - V-239094 - SV-239094r816607_rule
RMF Control
IA-5
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-000193
Version
PHTN-67-000022
Vuln IDs
  • V-239094
Rule IDs
  • SV-239094r816607_rule
Use of a complex password helps to increase the time and resources required to compromise the password. Password complexity, or strength, is a measure of the effectiveness of a password in resisting attempts at guessing and brute-force attacks.
Checks: C-42305r675088_chk

At the command line, execute the following command: # grep pam_cracklib /etc/pam.d/system-password|grep --color=always "lcredit=.." Expected result: password requisite pam_cracklib.so dcredit=-1 ucredit=-1 lcredit=-1 ocredit=-1 minlen=8 minclass=4 difok=4 retry=3 maxsequence=0 enforce_for_root If the output does not match the expected result, this is a finding.

Fix: F-42264r816606_fix

Open /etc/applmgmt/appliance/system-password with a text editor. Comment out any existing "pam_cracklib.so" line and add the following: password requisite pam_cracklib.so dcredit=-1 ucredit=-1 lcredit=-1 ocredit=-1 minlen=8 minclass=4 difok=4 retry=3 maxsequence=0 enforce_for_root Save and close.

b
The Photon operating system must enforce password complexity by requiring that at least one numeric character be used.
IA-5 - Medium - CCI-000194 - V-239095 - SV-239095r816609_rule
RMF Control
IA-5
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-000194
Version
PHTN-67-000023
Vuln IDs
  • V-239095
Rule IDs
  • SV-239095r816609_rule
Use of a complex password helps to increase the time and resources required to compromise the password. Password complexity, or strength, is a measure of the effectiveness of a password in resisting attempts at guessing and brute-force attacks.
Checks: C-42306r675091_chk

At the command line, execute the following command: # grep pam_cracklib /etc/pam.d/system-password|grep --color=always "dcredit=.." Expected result: password requisite pam_cracklib.so dcredit=-1 ucredit=-1 lcredit=-1 ocredit=-1 minlen=8 minclass=4 difok=4 retry=3 maxsequence=0 enforce_for_root If the output does not match the expected result, this is a finding.

Fix: F-42265r816608_fix

Open /etc/applmgmt/appliance/system-password with a text editor. Comment out any existing "pam_cracklib.so" line and add the following: password requisite pam_cracklib.so dcredit=-1 ucredit=-1 lcredit=-1 ocredit=-1 minlen=8 minclass=4 difok=4 retry=3 maxsequence=0 enforce_for_root Save and close.

b
The Photon operating system must require that new passwords are at least four characters different from the old password.
IA-5 - Medium - CCI-000195 - V-239096 - SV-239096r816611_rule
RMF Control
IA-5
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-000195
Version
PHTN-67-000024
Vuln IDs
  • V-239096
Rule IDs
  • SV-239096r816611_rule
Use of a complex password helps to increase the time and resources required to compromise the password. Password complexity, or strength, is a measure of the effectiveness of a password in resisting attempts at guessing and brute-force attacks.
Checks: C-42307r675094_chk

At the command line, execute the following command: # grep pam_cracklib /etc/pam.d/system-password|grep --color=always "difok=." Expected result: password requisite pam_cracklib.so dcredit=-1 ucredit=-1 lcredit=-1 ocredit=-1 minlen=8 minclass=4 difok=4 retry=3 maxsequence=0 enforce_for_root If the output does not match the expected result, this is a finding.

Fix: F-42266r816610_fix

Open /etc/applmgmt/appliance/system-password with a text editor. Comment out any existing "pam_cracklib.so" line and add the following: password requisite pam_cracklib.so dcredit=-1 ucredit=-1 lcredit=-1 ocredit=-1 minlen=8 minclass=4 difok=4 retry=3 maxsequence=0 enforce_for_root Save and close.

b
The Photon operating system must store only encrypted representations of passwords.
IA-5 - Medium - CCI-000196 - V-239097 - SV-239097r877397_rule
RMF Control
IA-5
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-000196
Version
PHTN-67-000025
Vuln IDs
  • V-239097
Rule IDs
  • SV-239097r877397_rule
Passwords must be protected at all times via strong, one-way encryption. If passwords are not encrypted, they can be plainly read (i.e., clear text) and easily compromised. If they are encrypted with a weak cipher, those passwords are much more vulnerable to offline brute forcing attacks.
Checks: C-42308r675097_chk

At the command line, execute the following command: # grep password /etc/pam.d/system-password|grep --color=always "sha512" If the output does not include "sha512", this is a finding.

Fix: F-42267r816612_fix

Open /etc/applmgmt/appliance/system-password with a text editor. Add the following argument (sha512) to the password line: password required pam_unix.so sha512 shadow try_first_pass Save and close.

b
The Photon operating system must store only encrypted representations of passwords.
IA-5 - Medium - CCI-000196 - V-239098 - SV-239098r877397_rule
RMF Control
IA-5
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-000196
Version
PHTN-67-000026
Vuln IDs
  • V-239098
Rule IDs
  • SV-239098r877397_rule
Passwords must be protected at all times via strong, one-way encryption. If passwords are not encrypted, they can be plainly read (i.e., clear text) and easily compromised. If they are encrypted with a weak cipher, those passwords are much more vulnerable to offline brute forcing attacks.
Checks: C-42309r675100_chk

At the command line, execute the following command: # grep SHA512 /etc/login.defs|grep -v "#" Expected result: ENCRYPT_METHOD SHA512 If there is no output or if the output does match the expected result, this is a finding.

Fix: F-42268r675101_fix

Open /etc/login.defs with a text editor. Add or replace the ENCRYPT_METHOD line as follows: ENCRYPT_METHOD SHA512

b
The Photon operating system must be configured so that passwords for new users are restricted to a 24-hour minimum lifetime.
IA-5 - Medium - CCI-000198 - V-239099 - SV-239099r675105_rule
RMF Control
IA-5
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-000198
Version
PHTN-67-000027
Vuln IDs
  • V-239099
Rule IDs
  • SV-239099r675105_rule
Enforcing a minimum password lifetime helps to prevent repeated password changes to defeat the password reuse or history enforcement requirement. If users are allowed to immediately and continually change their password, the password could be repeatedly changed in a short period of time to defeat the organization's policy regarding password reuse.
Checks: C-42310r675103_chk

At the command line, execute the following command: # grep "^PASS_MIN_DAYS" /etc/login.defs If PASS_MIN_DAYS is not set to 1, this is a finding.

Fix: F-42269r675104_fix

Open /etc/login.defs with a text editor.  Modify the PASS_MIN_DAYS line to the following: PASS_MIN_DAYS 1

b
The Photon operating system must be configured so that passwords for new users are restricted to a 90-day maximum lifetime.
IA-5 - Medium - CCI-000199 - V-239100 - SV-239100r675108_rule
RMF Control
IA-5
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-000199
Version
PHTN-67-000028
Vuln IDs
  • V-239100
Rule IDs
  • SV-239100r675108_rule
Any password, no matter how complex, can eventually be cracked. Therefore, passwords need to be changed periodically. If the operating system does not limit the lifetime of passwords and force users to change their passwords, there is the risk that the operating system passwords could be compromised.
Checks: C-42311r675106_chk

At the command line, execute the following command: # grep "^PASS_MAX_DAYS" /etc/login.defs If the value of PASS_MAX_DAYS is greater than 90, this is a finding.

Fix: F-42270r675107_fix

Open /etc/login.defs with a text editor. Modify the PASS_MAX_DAYS line to the following: PASS_MAX_DAYS 90

b
The Photon operating system must prohibit password reuse for a minimum of five generations.
IA-5 - Medium - CCI-000200 - V-239101 - SV-239101r816615_rule
RMF Control
IA-5
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-000200
Version
PHTN-67-000029
Vuln IDs
  • V-239101
Rule IDs
  • SV-239101r816615_rule
Password complexity, or strength, is a measure of the effectiveness of a password in resisting attempts at guessing and brute-force attacks. If the information system or application allows the user to consecutively reuse their password when that password has exceeded its defined lifetime, the end result is a password that is not changed as per policy requirements.
Checks: C-42312r675109_chk

At the command line, execute the following command: # grep pam_pwhistory /etc/pam.d/system-password|grep --color=always "remember=." Expected result: password required pam_pwhistory.so enforce_for_root use_authtok remember=5 retry=3 If the output does not match the expected result, this is a finding.

Fix: F-42271r816614_fix

Open /etc/applmgmt/appliance/system-password with a text editor. Add the following line after the last auth statement: password required pam_pwhistory.so enforce_for_root use_authtok remember=5 retry=3 Save and close.

b
The Photon operating system must ensure old passwords are being stored.
IA-5 - Medium - CCI-000200 - V-239102 - SV-239102r675114_rule
RMF Control
IA-5
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-000200
Version
PHTN-67-000030
Vuln IDs
  • V-239102
Rule IDs
  • SV-239102r675114_rule
Password complexity, or strength, is a measure of the effectiveness of a password in resisting attempts at guessing and brute-force attacks. If the information system or application allows the user to consecutively reuse their password when that password has exceeded its defined lifetime, the end result is a password that is not changed as per policy requirements.
Checks: C-42313r675112_chk

At the command line, execute the following command: # ls -al /etc/security/opasswd If "/etc/security/opasswd" does not exist, this is a finding.

Fix: F-42272r675113_fix

At the command line, execute the following commands: # touch /etc/security/opasswd # chown root:root /etc/security/opasswd # chmod 0600 /etc/security/opasswd

b
The Photon operating system must enforce a minimum eight-character password length.
IA-5 - Medium - CCI-000205 - V-239103 - SV-239103r863028_rule
RMF Control
IA-5
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-000205
Version
PHTN-67-000031
Vuln IDs
  • V-239103
Rule IDs
  • SV-239103r863028_rule
The shorter the password, the lower the number of possible combinations that need to be tested before the password is compromised. Password complexity, or strength, is a measure of the effectiveness of a password in resisting attempts at guessing and brute-force attacks. Password length is one factor of several that helps to determine strength and how long it takes to crack a password. Use of more characters in a password helps to exponentially increase the time and/or resources required to compromise the password.
Checks: C-42314r863027_chk

At the command line, execute the following command: # grep pam_cracklib /etc/pam.d/system-password|grep --color=always "minlen=.." Expected result: password requisite pam_cracklib.so dcredit=-1 ucredit=-1 lcredit=-1 ocredit=-1 minlen=8 minclass=4 difok=4 retry=3 maxsequence=0 enforce_for_root If the output does not match the expected result, this is a finding. NOTE: After the fix is implemented, the check will not pass until either a reboot is performed or both files are modified, which happens automatically on reboot.

Fix: F-42273r816616_fix

Open /etc/applmgmt/appliance/system-password with a text editor. Comment out any existing "pam_cracklib.so" line and add the following: password requisite pam_cracklib.so dcredit=-1 ucredit=-1 lcredit=-1 ocredit=-1 minlen=8 minclass=4 difok=4 retry=3 maxsequence=0 enforce_for_root Save and close.

b
The Photon operating system must only allow installation of packages signed by VMware.
CM-7 - Medium - CCI-000381 - V-239104 - SV-239104r675120_rule
RMF Control
CM-7
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-000381
Version
PHTN-67-000032
Vuln IDs
  • V-239104
Rule IDs
  • SV-239104r675120_rule
Installation of any non-trusted software, patches, service packs, device drivers, or operating system components can significantly affect the overall security of the operating system. This requirement ensures the software has not been tampered with and has been provided by VMware.
Checks: C-42315r675118_chk

At the command line, execute the following command: # rpm -qa gpg-pubkey --qf "%{version}-%{release} %{summary}\n"|grep -v "66fd4949-4803fe57" If there is any output, an unsupported package has been installed and this is a finding.

Fix: F-42274r675119_fix

Confirm with VMware support that this package is not supported (for potential package additions after STIG publication). At the command line, execute the following command: # rpm -e <package-name-from-check>

b
The Photon operating system must disable the loading of unnecessary kernel modules.
CM-7 - Medium - CCI-000382 - V-239105 - SV-239105r840147_rule
RMF Control
CM-7
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-000382
Version
PHTN-67-000033
Vuln IDs
  • V-239105
Rule IDs
  • SV-239105r840147_rule
To support the requirements and principles of least functionality, the operating system must provide only essential capabilities and limit the use of modules, protocols, and/or services to only those required for the proper functioning of the product. Satisfies: SRG-OS-000096-GPOS-00050, SRG-OS-000114-GPOS-00059
Checks: C-42316r840146_chk

At the command line, execute the following command: # modprobe --showconfig | grep "^install" | grep "/bin" Expected result: install sctp /bin/false install dccp /bin/false install dccp_ipv4 /bin/false install dccp_ipv6 /bin/false install ipx /bin/false install appletalk /bin/false install decnet /bin/false install rds /bin/false install tipc /bin/false install bluetooth /bin/false install usb_storage /bin/false install ieee1394 /bin/false install cramfs /bin/false install freevxfs /bin/false install jffs2 /bin/false install hfs /bin/false install hfsplus /bin/false install squashfs /bin/false install udf /bin/false The output may include other statements outside of the expected result. This is acceptable. If the output does not include at least every statement in the expected result, this is a finding.

Fix: F-42275r675122_fix

Open /etc/modprobe.d/modprobe.conf with a text editor and set the contents as follows: install sctp /bin/false install dccp /bin/false install dccp_ipv4 /bin/false install dccp_ipv6 /bin/false install ipx /bin/false install appletalk /bin/false install decnet /bin/false install rds /bin/false install tipc /bin/false install bluetooth /bin/false install usb-storage /bin/false install ieee1394 /bin/false install cramfs /bin/false install freevxfs /bin/false install jffs2 /bin/false install hfs /bin/false install hfsplus /bin/false install squashfs /bin/false install udf /bin/false

b
The Photon operating system must not have Duplicate User IDs (UIDs).
IA-2 - Medium - CCI-000764 - V-239106 - SV-239106r675126_rule
RMF Control
IA-2
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-000764
Version
PHTN-67-000034
Vuln IDs
  • V-239106
Rule IDs
  • SV-239106r675126_rule
To ensure accountability and prevent unauthenticated access, organizational users must be uniquely identified and authenticated to prevent potential misuse and provide for non-repudiation.
Checks: C-42317r675124_chk

At the command line, execute the following command: # awk -F ":" 'list[$3]++{print $1, $3}' /etc/passwd If any lines are returned, this is a finding.

Fix: F-42276r675125_fix

Open /etc/passwd with a text editor. Configure each user account that has a duplicate UID with a unique UID.

b
The Photon operating system must configure sshd to disallow root logins.
IA-2 - Medium - CCI-000770 - V-239107 - SV-239107r675129_rule
RMF Control
IA-2
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-000770
Version
PHTN-67-000035
Vuln IDs
  • V-239107
Rule IDs
  • SV-239107r675129_rule
Logging on with a user-specific account provides individual accountability for actions performed on the system. Users must log in with their individual accounts and elevate to root as necessary. Disallowing root SSH login also reduces the distribution of the root password to users who may not otherwise need that level of privilege.
Checks: C-42318r675127_chk

At the command line, execute the following command: # sshd -T|&amp;grep -i PermitRootLogin Expected result: permitrootlogin no If the output does not match the expected result, this is a finding.

Fix: F-42277r675128_fix

Open /etc/ssh/sshd_config with a text editor and ensure that the "PermitRootLogin" line is uncommented and set to the following: PermitRootLogin no At the command line, execute the following command: # service sshd reload

b
The Photon operating system must disable new accounts immediately upon password expiration.
IA-4 - Medium - CCI-000795 - V-239108 - SV-239108r675132_rule
RMF Control
IA-4
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-000795
Version
PHTN-67-000036
Vuln IDs
  • V-239108
Rule IDs
  • SV-239108r675132_rule
Inactive identifiers pose a risk to systems and applications because attackers may exploit an inactive identifier and potentially obtain undetected access to the system. Owners of inactive accounts will not notice if unauthorized access to their user account has been obtained. Disabling inactive accounts ensures that accounts that may not have been responsibly removed are not available to attackers who may have compromised their credentials.
Checks: C-42319r675130_chk

At the command line, execute the following command: # grep INACTIVE /etc/default/useradd Expected result: INACTIVE=0 If the output does not match the expected result, this is a finding.

Fix: F-42278r675131_fix

Open /etc/default/useradd with a text editor. Remove any existing "INACTIVE" line and add the following line: INACTIVE=0

b
The Photon operating system must use TCP syncookies.
SC-5 - Medium - CCI-001095 - V-239109 - SV-239109r856040_rule
RMF Control
SC-5
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-001095
Version
PHTN-67-000037
Vuln IDs
  • V-239109
Rule IDs
  • SV-239109r856040_rule
A TCP SYN flood attack can cause a denial of service by filling a system's TCP connection table with connections in the SYN_RCVD state. Syncookies can be used to track a connection when a subsequent ACK is received, verifying the initiator is attempting a valid connection and is not a flood source. This feature is activated when a flood condition is detected and enables the system to continue servicing valid connection requests. Satisfies: SRG-OS-000142-GPOS-00071, SRG-OS-000420-GPOS-00186
Checks: C-42320r816620_chk

At the command line, execute the following command: # /sbin/sysctl -a --pattern tcp_syncookies Expected result: net.ipv4.tcp_syncookies = 1 If the output does not match the expected result, this is a finding.

Fix: F-42279r816621_fix

Open /etc/sysctl.conf with a text editor. Add or update the following line: net.ipv4.tcp_syncookies=1 Run the following command to load the new setting: # /sbin/sysctl --load

b
The Photon operating system must configure sshd to disconnect idle SSH sessions.
SC-10 - Medium - CCI-001133 - V-239110 - SV-239110r675138_rule
RMF Control
SC-10
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-001133
Version
PHTN-67-000038
Vuln IDs
  • V-239110
Rule IDs
  • SV-239110r675138_rule
Terminating an idle session within a short time period reduces the window of opportunity for unauthorized personnel to take control of a management session enabled on the console or console port that has been left unattended.
Checks: C-42321r675136_chk

At the command line, execute the following command: # sshd -T|&amp;grep -i ClientAliveInterval Expected result: ClientAliveInterval 900 If the output does not match the expected result, this is a finding.

Fix: F-42280r675137_fix

Open /etc/ssh/sshd_config with a text editor. Ensure that the "ClientAliveInterval" line is uncommented and set to the following: ClientAliveInterval 900 At the command line, execute the following command: # service sshd reload

b
The Photon operating system must configure sshd to disconnect idle SSH sessions.
SC-10 - Medium - CCI-001133 - V-239111 - SV-239111r675141_rule
RMF Control
SC-10
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-001133
Version
PHTN-67-000039
Vuln IDs
  • V-239111
Rule IDs
  • SV-239111r675141_rule
Terminating an idle session within a short time period reduces the window of opportunity for unauthorized personnel to take control of a management session enabled on the console or console port that has been left unattended.
Checks: C-42322r675139_chk

At the command line, execute the following command: # sshd -T|&amp;grep -i ClientAliveCountMax Expected result: ClientAliveCountMax 0 If the output does not match the expected result, this is a finding.

Fix: F-42281r675140_fix

Open /etc/ssh/sshd_config with a text editor. Ensure that the "ClientAliveCountMax" line is uncommented and set to the following: ClientAliveCountMax 0 At the command line, execute the following command: # service sshd reload

b
The Photon operating system must configure rsyslog to offload system logs to a central server.
SI-11 - Medium - CCI-001312 - V-239112 - SV-239112r856041_rule
RMF Control
SI-11
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-001312
Version
PHTN-67-000040
Vuln IDs
  • V-239112
Rule IDs
  • SV-239112r856041_rule
Information stored in one location is vulnerable to accidental or incidental deletion or alteration. Proper configuration of rsyslog ensures that information critical to forensic analysis of security events is available for future action without any manual offloading or cron jobs. Satisfies: SRG-OS-000205-GPOS-00083, SRG-OS-000274-GPOS-00104, SRG-OS-000275-GPOS-00105, SRG-OS-000276-GPOS-00106, SRG-OS-000277-GPOS-00107, SRG-OS-000479-GPOS-00224
Checks: C-42323r816623_chk

At the command line, execute the following command: # cat /etc/vmware-syslog/syslog.conf The output should be similar to the following (*.* or AO approved logging events): *.* @&lt;syslog server&gt;:port;RSYSLOG_syslogProtocol23Format If no line is returned or if the line is commented or no valid syslog server is specified, this is a finding. OR Navigate to https://&lt;hostname&gt;:5480 to access the Virtual Appliance Management Interface (VAMI). Authenticate and navigate to "Syslog Configuration". If no site-specific syslog server is configured, this is a finding.

Fix: F-42282r816624_fix

Open /etc/vmware-syslog/syslog.conf with a text editor. Remove any existing content and create a new remote server configuration line. For UDP (*.* or AO approved logging events): *.* @<syslog server>:port;RSYSLOG_syslogProtocol23Format For TCP (*.* or AO approved logging events): *.* @@<syslog server>:port;RSYSLOG_syslogProtocol23Format OR Navigate to https://<hostname>:5480 to access the VAMI. Authenticate and navigate to "Syslog Configuration". Click "Edit" in the top right. Configure a remote syslog server and click "OK".

b
The Photon operating system /var/log directory must be owned by root.
SI-11 - Medium - CCI-001314 - V-239113 - SV-239113r675147_rule
RMF Control
SI-11
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-001314
Version
PHTN-67-000041
Vuln IDs
  • V-239113
Rule IDs
  • SV-239113r675147_rule
Only authorized personnel should be aware of errors and the details of the errors. Error messages are an indicator of an organization's operational state and can provide sensitive information to an unprivileged attacker.
Checks: C-42324r675145_chk

At the command line, execute the following command: # stat -c "%n is owned by %U and group owned by %G" /var/log If the /var/log is not owned by root, this is a finding.

Fix: F-42283r675146_fix

At the command line, execute the following command: # chown root:root /var/log

b
The Photon operating system messages file must be owned by root.
SI-11 - Medium - CCI-001314 - V-239114 - SV-239114r675150_rule
RMF Control
SI-11
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-001314
Version
PHTN-67-000042
Vuln IDs
  • V-239114
Rule IDs
  • SV-239114r675150_rule
Only authorized personnel should be aware of errors and the details of the errors. Error messages are an indicator of an organization's operational state and can provide sensitive information to an unprivileged attacker.
Checks: C-42325r675148_chk

At the command line, execute the following command: # stat -c "%n is owned by %U and group owned by %G" /var/log/vmware/messages If /var/log/vmware/messages is not owned by root or not group owned by root, this is a finding.

Fix: F-42284r675149_fix

At the command line, execute the following command: # chown root:root /var/log/vmware/messages

b
The Photon operating system messages file must have mode 0640 or less permissive.
SI-11 - Medium - CCI-001314 - V-239115 - SV-239115r675153_rule
RMF Control
SI-11
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-001314
Version
PHTN-67-000043
Vuln IDs
  • V-239115
Rule IDs
  • SV-239115r675153_rule
Only authorized personnel should be aware of errors and the details of the errors. Error messages are an indicator of an organization's operational state and can provide sensitive information to an unprivileged attacker.
Checks: C-42326r675151_chk

At the command line, execute the following command: # stat -c "%n permissions are %a" /var/log/vmware/messages If the permissions on the file are more permissive than 0640, this is a finding.

Fix: F-42285r675152_fix

At the command line, execute the following command: # chmod 0640 /var/log/vmware/messages

b
The Photon operating system must audit all account modifications.
AC-2 - Medium - CCI-001403 - V-239116 - SV-239116r856042_rule
RMF Control
AC-2
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-001403
Version
PHTN-67-000045
Vuln IDs
  • V-239116
Rule IDs
  • SV-239116r856042_rule
Once an attacker establishes access to a system, the attacker often attempts to create a persistent method of reestablishing access. One way to accomplish this is for the attacker to modify an existing account. Auditing account modification actions provides logging that can be used for forensic purposes. Satisfies: SRG-OS-000239-GPOS-00089, SRG-OS-000303-GPOS-00120, SRG-OS-000304-GPOS-00121
Checks: C-42327r816626_chk

At the command line, execute the following command: # auditctl -l | grep -E "(/etc/passwd|/etc/shadow|/etc/group|/etc/gshadow)" Expected result: -w /etc/passwd -p wa -k passwd -w /etc/shadow -p wa -k shadow -w /etc/group -p wa -k group -w /etc/gshadow -p wa -k gshadow If the output does not match the expected result, this is a finding. Note: This check depends on the auditd service to be in a running state for accurate results. Enabling the auditd service is done as part of a separate control.

Fix: F-42286r816627_fix

Open /etc/audit/rules.d/audit.STIG.rules with a text editor and add the following lines: -w /etc/passwd -p wa -k passwd -w /etc/shadow -p wa -k shadow -w /etc/group -p wa -k group -w /etc/gshadow -p wa -k gshadow At the command line, execute the following command: # /sbin/augenrules --load

b
The Photon operating system must audit all account disabling actions.
AC-2 - Medium - CCI-001404 - V-239117 - SV-239117r816631_rule
RMF Control
AC-2
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-001404
Version
PHTN-67-000046
Vuln IDs
  • V-239117
Rule IDs
  • SV-239117r816631_rule
When operating system accounts are disabled, user accessibility is affected. Accounts are used for identifying individual users or the operating system processes themselves. To detect and respond to events affecting user accessibility and system processing, operating systems must audit account disabling actions.
Checks: C-42328r816629_chk

At the command line, execute the following command: # auditctl -l | grep "^-w /usr/bin/passwd" Expected result: -w /usr/bin/passwd -p x -k passwd If the output does not match the expected result, this is a finding. Note: This check depends on the auditd service to be in a running state for accurate results. Enabling the auditd service is done as part of a separate control.

Fix: F-42287r816630_fix

Open /etc/audit/rules.d/audit.STIG.rules with a text editor and add the following lines: -w /usr/bin/passwd -p x -k passwd At the command line, execute the following command: # /sbin/augenrules --load

b
The Photon operating system must audit all account removal actions.
AC-2 - Medium - CCI-001405 - V-239118 - SV-239118r816634_rule
RMF Control
AC-2
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-001405
Version
PHTN-67-000047
Vuln IDs
  • V-239118
Rule IDs
  • SV-239118r816634_rule
When operating system accounts are removed, user accessibility is affected. Accounts are used for identifying individual users or the operating system processes themselves. To detect and respond to events affecting user accessibility and system processing, operating systems must audit account removal actions.
Checks: C-42329r816632_chk

At the command line, execute the following command: # auditctl -l | grep -E "(userdel|groupdel)" Expected result: -w /usr/sbin/userdel -p x -k userdel -w /usr/sbin/groupdel -p x -k groupdel If the output does not match the expected result, this is a finding. Note: This check depends on the auditd service to be in a running state for accurate results. Enabling the auditd service is done as part of a separate control.

Fix: F-42288r816633_fix

Open /etc/audit/rules.d/audit.STIG.rules with a text editor and add the following lines: -w /usr/sbin/userdel -p x -k userdel -w /usr/sbin/groupdel -p x -k groupdel At the command line, execute the following command: # /sbin/augenrules --load

b
The Photon operating system must initiate auditing as part of the boot process.
AU-14 - Medium - CCI-001464 - V-239119 - SV-239119r675165_rule
RMF Control
AU-14
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-001464
Version
PHTN-67-000048
Vuln IDs
  • V-239119
Rule IDs
  • SV-239119r675165_rule
Each process on the system carries an "auditable" flag, which indicates whether its activities can be audited. Although auditd takes care of enabling this for all processes that launch after it starts, adding the kernel argument ensures the flag is set at boot for every process on the system. This includes processes created before auditd starts.
Checks: C-42330r675163_chk

At the command line, execute the following command: # grep "audit=1" /proc/cmdline If no results are returned, this is a finding.

Fix: F-42289r675164_fix

Open /boot/grub2/grub.cfg with a text editor and locate the boot command line arguments. An example follows: linux "/"$photon_linux root=$rootpartition net.ifnames=0 $photon_cmdline coredump_filter=0x37 consoleblank=0 Add "audit=1" to the end of the line so it reads as follows: linux "/"$photon_linux root=$rootpartition net.ifnames=0 $photon_cmdline coredump_filter=0x37 consoleblank=0 audit=1 Note: Do not copy/paste in this example argument line. This may change in future releases. Find the similar line and append "audit=1" to it. Reboot the system for the change to take effect.

b
The Photon operating system audit files and directories must have correct permissions.
AU-9 - Medium - CCI-001493 - V-239120 - SV-239120r675168_rule
RMF Control
AU-9
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-001493
Version
PHTN-67-000049
Vuln IDs
  • V-239120
Rule IDs
  • SV-239120r675168_rule
Protecting audit information also includes identifying and protecting the tools used to view and manipulate log data. Therefore, protecting audit tools is necessary to prevent unauthorized operations on audit information.
Checks: C-42331r675166_chk

At the command line, execute the following command: # stat -c "%n is owned by %U and group owned by %G" /etc/audit/auditd.conf If auditd.conf is not owned by root and group owned by root, this is a finding.

Fix: F-42290r675167_fix

At the command line, execute the following command: # chown root:root /etc/audit/auditd.conf

b
The Photon operating system audit files and directories must have correct permissions.
AU-9 - Medium - CCI-001493 - V-239121 - SV-239121r675171_rule
RMF Control
AU-9
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-001493
Version
PHTN-67-000050
Vuln IDs
  • V-239121
Rule IDs
  • SV-239121r675171_rule
Protecting audit information also includes identifying and protecting the tools used to view and manipulate log data. Therefore, protecting audit tools is necessary to prevent unauthorized operations on audit information.
Checks: C-42332r675169_chk

At the command line, execute the following command: # stat -c "%n is owned by %U and group owned by %G" /usr/sbin/auditctl /usr/sbin/auditd /usr/sbin/aureport /usr/sbin/ausearch /usr/sbin/autrace If any file is not owned by root and group owned by root, this is a finding.

Fix: F-42291r675170_fix

At the command line, execute the following command for each file returned: # chown root:root <file>

b
The Photon operating system must protect audit tools from unauthorized modification.
AU-9 - Medium - CCI-001494 - V-239122 - SV-239122r675174_rule
RMF Control
AU-9
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-001494
Version
PHTN-67-000051
Vuln IDs
  • V-239122
Rule IDs
  • SV-239122r675174_rule
Protecting audit information also includes identifying and protecting the tools used to view and manipulate log data. Therefore, protecting audit tools is necessary to prevent unauthorized operations on audit information. Satisfies: SRG-OS-000257-GPOS-00098, SRG-OS-000258-GPOS-00099
Checks: C-42333r675172_chk

At the command line, execute the following command: # stat -c "%n permissions are %a" /usr/sbin/auditctl /usr/sbin/auditd /usr/sbin/aureport /usr/sbin/ausearch /usr/sbin/autrace If any file is more permissive than 750, this is a finding.

Fix: F-42292r675173_fix

At the command line, execute the following command for each file returned: # chmod 750 <file>

b
The Photon operating system must enforce password complexity by requiring that at least one special character be used.
IA-5 - Medium - CCI-001619 - V-239123 - SV-239123r863030_rule
RMF Control
IA-5
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-001619
Version
PHTN-67-000052
Vuln IDs
  • V-239123
Rule IDs
  • SV-239123r863030_rule
Use of a complex password helps to increase the time and resources required to compromise the password. Password complexity, or strength, is a measure of the effectiveness of a password in resisting attempts at guessing and brute-force attacks.
Checks: C-42334r863029_chk

At the command line, execute the following command: # grep pam_cracklib /etc/pam.d/system-password|grep --color=always "ocredit=.." Expected result: password requisite pam_cracklib.so dcredit=-1 ucredit=-1 lcredit=-1 ocredit=-1 minlen=8 minclass=4 difok=4 retry=3 maxsequence=0 enforce_for_root If the output does not match the expected result, this is a finding. NOTE: After the fix is implemented, the check will not pass until either a reboot is performed or both files are modified, which happens automatically on reboot.

Fix: F-42293r816635_fix

Open /etc/applmgmt/appliance/system-password with a text editor. Comment out any existing "pam_cracklib.so" line and add the following: password requisite pam_cracklib.so dcredit=-1 ucredit=-1 lcredit=-1 ocredit=-1 minlen=8 minclass=4 difok=4 retry=3 maxsequence=0 enforce_for_root Save and close.

b
The Photon operating system package files must not be modified.
AU-9 - Medium - CCI-001496 - V-239124 - SV-239124r877393_rule
RMF Control
AU-9
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-001496
Version
PHTN-67-000053
Vuln IDs
  • V-239124
Rule IDs
  • SV-239124r877393_rule
Protecting the integrity of the tools used for auditing purposes is a critical step toward ensuring the integrity of audit information. Audit information includes all information (e.g., audit records, audit settings, and audit reports) needed to successfully audit information system activity. Without confidence in the integrity of the auditing system and tools, the information it provides cannot be trusted.
Checks: C-42335r675178_chk

Use the verification capability of rpm to check the MD5 hashes of the audit files on disk versus the expected ones from the installation package. At the command line, execute the following command: # rpm -V audit | grep "^..5" | grep -v "^...........c" If there is output, this is a finding.

Fix: F-42294r675179_fix

If the audit system binaries have been altered, the system must be taken offline and the ISSM must be notified immediately. Reinstalling the audit tools is not supported. The appliance should be restored from a backup or a snapshot or redeployed once the root cause is remediated.

b
The Photon operating system must set an inactivity timeout value for non-interactive sessions.
AC-12 - Medium - CCI-002361 - V-239125 - SV-239125r856043_rule
RMF Control
AC-12
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-002361
Version
PHTN-67-000054
Vuln IDs
  • V-239125
Rule IDs
  • SV-239125r856043_rule
A session timeout is an action taken when a session goes idle for any reason. Rather than relying on the user to manually disconnect their session prior to going idle, the Photon operating system must be able to identify when a session has idled and take action to terminate the session.
Checks: C-42336r675181_chk

At the command line, execute the following command: # grep TMOUT /etc/bash.bashrc Expected result: TMOUT=900 readonly TMOUT export TMOUT If the file does not exist or the output does not match the expected result, this is a finding.

Fix: F-42295r675182_fix

Open /etc/bash.bashrc with a text editor and add the following to the end: TMOUT=900 readonly TMOUT export TMOUT

b
The Photon operating system must configure sshd with a specific ListenAddress.
AC-17 - Medium - CCI-002314 - V-239126 - SV-239126r856044_rule
RMF Control
AC-17
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-002314
Version
PHTN-67-000055
Vuln IDs
  • V-239126
Rule IDs
  • SV-239126r856044_rule
Without specifying a ListenAddress, sshd will listen on all interfaces. In situations with multiple interfaces, this may not be intended behavior and could lead to offering remote access on an unapproved network.
Checks: C-42337r675184_chk

At the command line, execute the following command: # sshd -T|&amp;grep -i ListenAddress If the ListenAddress is not configured to the VCSA management IP, this is a finding.

Fix: F-42296r675185_fix

Open /etc/ssh/sshd_config with a text editor. Ensure that the "ListenAddress" line is uncommented and set to a valid local IP: Example: ListenAddress 169.254.1.2 Replace "169.254.1.2" with the management address of the VCSA. At the command line, execute the following command: # service sshd reload

b
The Photon operating system must audit the execution of privileged functions.
AU-12 - Medium - CCI-000172 - V-239127 - SV-239127r856045_rule
RMF Control
AU-12
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-000172
Version
PHTN-67-000056
Vuln IDs
  • V-239127
Rule IDs
  • SV-239127r856045_rule
Misuse of privileged functions, either intentionally or unintentionally by authorized users, or by unauthorized external entities that have compromised information system accounts, is a serious and ongoing concern and can have significant adverse impacts on organizations. Auditing the use of privileged functions is one way to detect such misuse and identify the risk from insider threats and the advanced persistent threat. Satisfies: SRG-OS-000327-GPOS-00127, SRG-OS-000471-GPOS-00215
Checks: C-42338r816637_chk

At the command line, execute the following command to obtain a list of setuid files: # find / -xdev -perm -4000 -type f -o -perm -2000 -type f Execute the following command for each setuid file found in the first command: # grep &lt;setuid_path&gt; /etc/audit/audit.rules Replace &lt;setuid_path&gt; with each path found in the first command. If each &lt;setuid_path&gt; does not have a corresponding line in the audit rules, this is a finding. A typical corresponding line will look like the following: -a always,exit -F path=&lt;setuid_path&gt; -F perm=x -F auid&gt;=1000 -F auid!=-1 -k privileged Note: This check depends on the auditd service to be in a running state for accurate results. Enabling the auditd service is done as part of a separate control.

Fix: F-42297r816638_fix

At the command line, execute the following command to obtain a list of setuid files: # find / -xdev -perm -4000 -type f -o -perm -2000 -type f Open /etc/audit/rules.d/audit.STIG.rules with a text editor and add the following line: Replace <setuid_path> with each path found in the first command. -a always,exit -F path=<setuid_path> -F perm=x -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=4294967295 -k privileged At the command line, execute the following command: # /sbin/augenrules --load

b
The Photon operating system must configure auditd to keep five rotated log files.
AU-4 - Medium - CCI-001849 - V-239128 - SV-239128r877391_rule
RMF Control
AU-4
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-001849
Version
PHTN-67-000057
Vuln IDs
  • V-239128
Rule IDs
  • SV-239128r877391_rule
Audit logs are most useful when accessible by date, rather than size. This can be accomplished through a combination of an audit log rotation cron job, setting a reasonable number of logs to keep and configuring auditd to not rotate the logs on its own. This ensures that audit logs are accessible to the ISSO in the event of a central log processing failure.
Checks: C-42339r675190_chk

At the command line, execute the following command: # grep "^num_logs" /etc/audit/auditd.conf Expected result: num_logs = 5 If the output of the command does not match the expected result, this is a finding.

Fix: F-42298r675191_fix

Open /etc/audit/auditd.conf with a text editor. Add or change the "num_logs" line as follows: num_logs = 5 At the command line, execute the following command: # service auditd reload

b
The Photon operating system must configure auditd to keep five rotated log files.
AU-4 - Medium - CCI-001849 - V-239129 - SV-239129r877391_rule
RMF Control
AU-4
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-001849
Version
PHTN-67-000058
Vuln IDs
  • V-239129
Rule IDs
  • SV-239129r877391_rule
Audit logs are most useful when accessible by date, rather than size. This can be accomplished through a combination of an audit log rotation cron job, setting a reasonable number of logs to keep and configuring auditd to not rotate the logs on its own. This ensures that audit logs are accessible to the ISSO in the event of a central log processing failure.
Checks: C-42340r675193_chk

At the command line, execute the following command: # grep "^max_log_file_action" /etc/audit/auditd.conf Expected result: max_log_file_action = IGNORE If the output of the command does not match the expected result, this is a finding.

Fix: F-42299r675194_fix

Open /etc/audit/auditd.conf with a text editor. Add or change the "max_log_file_action" line as follows: max_log_file_action = IGNORE At the command line, execute the following command: # service auditd reload

b
The Photon operating system must configure a cron job to rotate auditd logs daily.
AU-4 - Medium - CCI-001849 - V-239130 - SV-239130r877391_rule
RMF Control
AU-4
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-001849
Version
PHTN-67-000059
Vuln IDs
  • V-239130
Rule IDs
  • SV-239130r877391_rule
Audit logs are most useful when accessible by date, rather than size. This can be accomplished through a combination of an audit log rotation cron job, setting a reasonable number of logs to keep and configuring auditd to not rotate the logs on its own. This ensures that audit logs are accessible to the ISSO in the event of a central log processing failure.
Checks: C-42341r675196_chk

At the command line, execute the following command: # cat /etc/cron.daily/audit-rotate Expected result: #!/bin/bash service auditd rotate If the output of the command does not match the expected result, this is a finding.

Fix: F-42300r675197_fix

If /etc/cron.daily/audit-rotate does not exist, run the following commands: # touch /etc/cron.daily/audit-rotate # chown root:root /etc/cron.daily/audit-rotate # chmod 0700 /etc/cron.daily/audit-rotate Open /etc/cron.daily/audit-rotate with a text editor. Set its contents as follows: #!/bin/bash service auditd rotate

b
The Photon operating system must configure auditd to log space limit problems to syslog.
AU-5 - Medium - CCI-001855 - V-239131 - SV-239131r877389_rule
RMF Control
AU-5
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-001855
Version
PHTN-67-000060
Vuln IDs
  • V-239131
Rule IDs
  • SV-239131r877389_rule
If security personnel are not notified immediately when storage volume reaches 75% utilization, they are unable to plan for audit record storage capacity expansion.
Checks: C-42342r675199_chk

At the command line, execute the following command: # grep "^space_left " /etc/audit/auditd.conf Expected result: space_left = 75 If the output does not match the expected result, this is a finding.

Fix: F-42301r675200_fix

Open /etc/audit/auditd.conf with a text editor. Ensure that the "space_left" line is uncommented and set to the following: space_left = 75 At the command line, execute the following command: # service auditd reload

b
The Photon operating system must be configured to synchronize with an approved DoD time source.
AU-8 - Medium - CCI-001891 - V-239132 - SV-239132r877038_rule
RMF Control
AU-8
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-001891
Version
PHTN-67-000061
Vuln IDs
  • V-239132
Rule IDs
  • SV-239132r877038_rule
Inaccurate time stamps make it more difficult to correlate events and can lead to an inaccurate analysis. Determining the correct time a particular event occurred on a system is critical when conducting forensic analysis and investigating system events. Sources outside the configured acceptable allowance (drift) may be inaccurate. Synchronizing internal information system clocks provides uniformity of time stamps for information systems with multiple system clocks and systems connected over a network. Organizations should consider endpoints that may not have regular access to the authoritative time server (e.g., mobile, teleworking, and tactical endpoints). Satisfies: SRG-OS-000355-GPOS-00143, SRG-OS-000356-GPOS-00144
Checks: C-42343r675202_chk

At the command line, execute the following command: # grep -E '^\s*(server|peer|multicastclient)' /etc/ntp.conf Confirm the servers and peers or multicastclient (as applicable) are local or an authoritative U.S. DoD source. If no lines are returned or a non-local/non-authoritative time server is used, this is a finding. OR Navigate to https://&lt;hostname&gt;:5480 to access the Virtual Appliance Management Interface (VAMI). Authenticate and navigate to "Time". If no appropriate time server is specified, this is a finding.

Fix: F-42302r675203_fix

Open /etc/ntp.conf with a text editor and set its contents to the following: tinker panic 0 restrict default kod nomodify notrap nopeer restrict 127.0.0.1 restrict -6 ::1 driftfile /var/lib/ntp/drift/ntp.drift server <site-specific-time-source-IP> At the command line, execute the following commands: # chkconfig ntpd on # systemctl start ntp OR Navigate to https://<hostname>:5480 to access the VAMI. Authenticate and navigate to "Time". Click "Edit" in the top right and configure at least one appropriate NTP server. Click "OK".

b
The Photon operating system RPM package management tool must cryptographically verify the authenticity of all software packages during installation.
CM-5 - Medium - CCI-001749 - V-239133 - SV-239133r877463_rule
RMF Control
CM-5
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-001749
Version
PHTN-67-000062
Vuln IDs
  • V-239133
Rule IDs
  • SV-239133r877463_rule
Installation of any non-trusted software, patches, service packs, device drivers, or operating system components can significantly affect the overall security of the operating system. Ensuring all packages' cryptographic signatures are valid prior to installation ensures the provenance of the software and protects against malicious tampering.
Checks: C-42344r675205_chk

At the command line, execute the following command: # grep -s nosignature /usr/lib/rpm/rpmrc /etc/rpmrc ~root/.rpmrc If the command returns any output, this is a finding.

Fix: F-42303r675206_fix

Open the file containing "nosignature" with a text editor and remove the option.

b
The Photon operating system RPM package management tool must cryptographically verify the authenticity of all software packages during installation.
CM-5 - Medium - CCI-001749 - V-239134 - SV-239134r877463_rule
RMF Control
CM-5
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-001749
Version
PHTN-67-000063
Vuln IDs
  • V-239134
Rule IDs
  • SV-239134r877463_rule
Installation of any non-trusted software, patches, service packs, device drivers, or operating system components can significantly affect the overall security of the operating system. This requirement ensures the software has not been tampered with and has been provided by a trusted vendor.
Checks: C-42345r675208_chk

At the command line, execute the following command: # grep "^gpgcheck" /etc/tdnf/tdnf.conf If "gpgcheck" is not set to "1", this is a finding.

Fix: F-42304r675209_fix

Open /etc/tdnf/tdnf.conf with a text editor. Remove any existing gpgcheck setting and add the following line: gpgcheck=1

b
The Photon operating system RPM package management tool must cryptographically verify the authenticity of all software packages during installation.
CM-5 - Medium - CCI-001749 - V-239135 - SV-239135r877463_rule
RMF Control
CM-5
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-001749
Version
PHTN-67-000064
Vuln IDs
  • V-239135
Rule IDs
  • SV-239135r877463_rule
Installation of any non-trusted software, patches, service packs, device drivers, or operating system components can significantly affect the overall security of the operating system. This requirement ensures the software has not been tampered with and has been provided by a trusted vendor.
Checks: C-42346r675211_chk

At the command line, execute the following command: # grep gpgcheck /etc/yum.repos.d/* If "gpgcheck" is not set to "1" in any returned file, this is a finding.

Fix: F-42305r675212_fix

Open the file where gpgcheck is not set to "1" with a text editor. Remove any existing gpgcheck setting and add the following line at the end of the file: gpgcheck=1

b
The Photon operating system must require users to reauthenticate for privilege escalation.
IA-11 - Medium - CCI-002038 - V-239136 - SV-239136r856054_rule
RMF Control
IA-11
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-002038
Version
PHTN-67-000065
Vuln IDs
  • V-239136
Rule IDs
  • SV-239136r856054_rule
Without reauthentication, users may access resources or perform tasks for which they do not have authorization. When operating systems provide the capability to escalate a functional capability, it is critical the user reauthenticate. Satisfies: SRG-OS-000373-GPOS-00156, SRG-OS-000373-GPOS-00157, SRG-OS-000373-GPOS-00158
Checks: C-42347r675214_chk

At the command line, execute the following commands: # grep -ihs nopasswd /etc/sudoers /etc/sudoers.d/*|grep -v "^#"|grep -v "^%"|awk '{print $1}' # awk -F: '($2 != "x" &amp;&amp; $2 != "!") {print $1}' /etc/shadow If any account listed in the first output is also listed in the second output, this is a finding.

Fix: F-42306r675215_fix

Check the configuration of the "/etc/sudoers" and "/etc/sudoers.d/*" files with the following command: # visudo OR # visudo -f /etc/sudoers.d/<file name> Remove any occurrences of "NOPASSWD" tags associated with user accounts with a password hash.

b
The Photon operating system must prohibit the use of cached authenticators after one day.
IA-5 - Medium - CCI-002007 - V-239137 - SV-239137r856055_rule
RMF Control
IA-5
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-002007
Version
PHTN-67-000066
Vuln IDs
  • V-239137
Rule IDs
  • SV-239137r856055_rule
If cached authentication information is out of date, the validity of the authentication information may be questionable.
Checks: C-42348r675217_chk

At the command line, execute the following command: # /opt/likewise/bin/lwregshell list_values "HKEY_THIS_MACHINE\Services\lsass\Parameters\Providers\ActiveDirectory"|grep "CacheEntryExpiry" If the value returned is not 14400 or less, this is a finding.

Fix: F-42307r675218_fix

At the command line, execute the following command: # /opt/likewise/bin/lwregshell set_value "[HKEY_THIS_MACHINE\Services\lsass\Parameters\Providers\ActiveDirectory]" CacheEntryExpiry 14400

c
The Photon operating system must configure sshd to use FIPS 140-2 ciphers.
SC-8 - High - CCI-002421 - V-239138 - SV-239138r877381_rule
RMF Control
SC-8
Severity
High
CCI
CCI-002421
Version
PHTN-67-000067
Vuln IDs
  • V-239138
Rule IDs
  • SV-239138r877381_rule
Privileged access contains control and configuration information and is particularly sensitive, so additional protections are necessary. This is maintained by using cryptographic mechanisms such as encryption to protect confidentiality. Nonlocal maintenance and diagnostic activities are activities conducted by individuals communicating through a network, either an external network (e.g., the internet) or an internal network. Local maintenance and diagnostic activities are activities carried out by individuals physically present at the information system or information system component and not communicating across a network connection. This requirement applies to hardware/software diagnostic test equipment or tools. This requirement does not cover hardware/software components that may support information system maintenance, yet are a part of the system (e.g., the software implementing "ping," "ls," "ipconfig," or the hardware and software implementing the monitoring port of an Ethernet switch). The operating system can meet this requirement through leveraging a cryptographic module. Satisfies: SRG-OS-000394-GPOS-00174, SRG-OS-000424-GPOS-00188, SRG-OS-000478-GPOS-00223
Checks: C-42349r675220_chk

At the command line, execute the following command: # sshd -T|&amp;grep -i Ciphers Expected result: ciphers aes256-gcm@openssh.com,aes128-gcm@openssh.com,aes256-ctr,aes192-ctr,aes128-ctr If the output does not match the expected result, this is a finding.

Fix: F-42308r675221_fix

Open /etc/ssh/sshd_config with a text editor. Ensure that the "Ciphers" line is uncommented and set to the following: Ciphers aes256-gcm@openssh.com,aes128-gcm@openssh.com,aes256-ctr,aes192-ctr,aes128-ctr At the command line, execute the following command: # service sshd reload

b
The Photon operating system must use OpenSSH for remote maintenance sessions.
IA-5 - Medium - CCI-000197 - V-239139 - SV-239139r856057_rule
RMF Control
IA-5
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-000197
Version
PHTN-67-000068
Vuln IDs
  • V-239139
Rule IDs
  • SV-239139r856057_rule
If the remote connection is not closed and verified as closed, the session may remain open and be exploited by an attacker; this is referred to as a zombie session. Remote connections must be disconnected and verified as disconnected when nonlocal maintenance sessions have been terminated and are no longer available for use. Satisfies: SRG-OS-000395-GPOS-00175, SRG-OS-000074-GPOS-00042, SRG-OS-000112-GPOS-00057, SRG-OS-000113-GPOS-00058, SRG-OS-000120-GPOS-00061, SRG-OS-000125-GPOS-00065, SRG-OS-000425-GPOS-00189, SRG-OS-000426-GPOS-00190
Checks: C-42350r675223_chk

At the command line, execute the following command: # rpm -qa|grep openssh If there is no output, this is a finding.

Fix: F-42309r675224_fix

Installing openssh manually is not supported by VMware. Revert to a previous backup or redeploy the VCSA.

b
The Photon operating system must implement address space layout randomization (ASLR) to protect its memory from unauthorized code execution.
SI-16 - Medium - CCI-002824 - V-239140 - SV-239140r856058_rule
RMF Control
SI-16
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-002824
Version
PHTN-67-000069
Vuln IDs
  • V-239140
Rule IDs
  • SV-239140r856058_rule
ASLR makes it more difficult for an attacker to predict the location of attack code he or she has introduced into a process's address space during an attempt at exploitation. Additionally, ASLR also makes it more difficult for an attacker to know the location of existing code to repurpose it using return-oriented programming techniques.
Checks: C-42351r675226_chk

At the command line, execute the following command: # cat /proc/sys/kernel/randomize_va_space If the value of "randomize_va_space" is not "2", this is a finding.

Fix: F-42310r675227_fix

Open /etc/sysctl.d/50-security-hardening.conf with a text editor. Ensure that the "randomize_va_space" is uncommented and set to the following: kernel.randomize_va_space=2 At the command line, execute the following command: # sysctl --system

b
The Photon operating system must remove all software components after updated versions have been installed.
SI-2 - Medium - CCI-002617 - V-239141 - SV-239141r856059_rule
RMF Control
SI-2
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-002617
Version
PHTN-67-000070
Vuln IDs
  • V-239141
Rule IDs
  • SV-239141r856059_rule
Previous versions of software components that are not removed from the information system after updates have been installed may be exploited by adversaries. Some information technology products may remove older versions of software automatically from the information system.
Checks: C-42352r675229_chk

At the command line, execute the following command: # grep -i "^clean_requirements_on_remove" /etc/tdnf/tdnf.conf Expected result: clean_requirements_on_remove=true If the output does not match the expected result, this is a finding.

Fix: F-42311r675230_fix

Open /etc/tdnf/tdnf.conf with a text editor. Remove any existing "clean_requirements_on_remove" line and ensure the following line is present: clean_requirements_on_remove=true

b
The Photon operating system must generate audit records when the sudo command is used.
AU-12 - Medium - CCI-000172 - V-239142 - SV-239142r821356_rule
RMF Control
AU-12
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-000172
Version
PHTN-67-000071
Vuln IDs
  • V-239142
Rule IDs
  • SV-239142r821356_rule
Without generating audit records that are specific to the security and mission needs of the organization, it would be difficult to establish, correlate, and investigate the events relating to an incident or identify those responsible for one. Audit records can be generated from various components within the information system (e.g., module or policy filter). Satisfies: SRG-OS-000458-GPOS-00203, SRG-OS-000463-GPOS-00207, SRG-OS-000466-GPOS-00210, SRG-OS-000468-GPOS-00212
Checks: C-42353r821355_chk

At the command line, execute the following command: # auditctl -l | grep sudo Expected result: -a always,exit -F path=/usr/bin/sudo -F perm=x -F auid&gt;=1000 -F auid!=1 -k privileged OR -a always,exit -S all -F path=/usr/bin/sudo -F perm=x -F auid&gt;=1000 -F auid!=-1 -F key=privileged If the output does not match the expected result, this is a finding. Note: This check depends on the auditd service to be in a running state for accurate results. Enabling the auditd service is done as part of a separate control.

Fix: F-42312r816642_fix

Open /etc/audit/rules.d/audit.STIG.rules with a text editor and add the following lines: -a always,exit -F path=/usr/bin/sudo -F perm=x -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=4294967295 -k privileged At the command line, execute the following command: # /sbin/augenrules --load

b
The Photon operating system must generate audit records when successful/unsuccessful logon attempts occur.
AU-12 - Medium - CCI-000172 - V-239143 - SV-239143r816646_rule
RMF Control
AU-12
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-000172
Version
PHTN-67-000072
Vuln IDs
  • V-239143
Rule IDs
  • SV-239143r816646_rule
Without generating audit records that are specific to the security and mission needs of the organization, it would be difficult to establish, correlate, and investigate the events relating to an incident or identify those responsible for one. Audit records can be generated from various components within the information system (e.g., module or policy filter). Satisfies: SRG-OS-000470-GPOS-00214, SRG-OS-000472-GPOS-00217, SRG-OS-000473-GPOS-00218
Checks: C-42354r816644_chk

At the command line, execute the following command: # auditctl -l | grep -E "faillog|lastlog|tallylog" Expected result: -w /var/log/faillog -p wa -w /var/log/lastlog -p wa -w /var/log/tallylog -p wa If the output does not match the expected result, this is a finding. Note: This check depends on the auditd service to be in a running state for accurate results. Enabling the auditd service is done as part of a separate control.

Fix: F-42313r816645_fix

Open /etc/audit/rules.d/audit.STIG.rules with a text editor and add the following lines: -w /var/log/faillog -p wa -w /var/log/lastlog -p wa -w /var/log/tallylog -p wa At the command line, execute the following command: # /sbin/augenrules --load

b
The Photon operating system must audit the insmod module.
AU-12 - Medium - CCI-000172 - V-239144 - SV-239144r816649_rule
RMF Control
AU-12
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-000172
Version
PHTN-67-000073
Vuln IDs
  • V-239144
Rule IDs
  • SV-239144r816649_rule
Without generating audit records that are specific to the security and mission needs of the organization, it would be difficult to establish, correlate, and investigate the events relating to an incident or identify those responsible for one. Audit records can be generated from various components within the information system (e.g., module or policy filter). Satisfies: SRG-OS-000471-GPOS-00216, SRG-OS-000477-GPOS-00222
Checks: C-42355r816647_chk

At the command line, execute the following command: # auditctl -l | grep "/sbin/insmod" Expected result: -w /sbin/insmod -p x If the output does not match the expected result, this is a finding. Note: This check depends on the auditd service to be in a running state for accurate results. Enabling the auditd service is done as part of a separate control.

Fix: F-42314r816648_fix

Open /etc/audit/rules.d/audit.STIG.rules with a text editor and add the following lines: -w /sbin/insmod -p x At the command line, execute the following command: # /sbin/augenrules --load

b
The Photon operating system auditd service must generate audit records for all account creations, modifications, disabling, and termination events.
AU-12 - Medium - CCI-000172 - V-239145 - SV-239145r816652_rule
RMF Control
AU-12
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-000172
Version
PHTN-67-000074
Vuln IDs
  • V-239145
Rule IDs
  • SV-239145r816652_rule
Without generating audit records that are specific to the security and mission needs of the organization, it would be difficult to establish, correlate, and investigate the events relating to an incident or identify those responsible for one. Audit records can be generated from various components within the information system (e.g., module or policy filter).
Checks: C-42356r816650_chk

At the command line, execute the following command: # auditctl -l | grep -E /etc/security/opasswd If any of these are not listed with a permissions filter of at least "w", this is a finding. Note: This check depends on the auditd service to be in a running state for accurate results. Enabling the auditd service is done as part of a separate control.

Fix: F-42315r816651_fix

Open /etc/audit/rules.d/audit.STIG.rules with a text editor and add the following lines: -w /etc/security/opasswd -p wa -k opasswd At the command line, execute the following command: # /sbin/augenrules --load

b
The Photon operating system must use the pam_cracklib module.
CM-6 - Medium - CCI-000366 - V-239146 - SV-239146r863032_rule
RMF Control
CM-6
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-000366
Version
PHTN-67-000075
Vuln IDs
  • V-239146
Rule IDs
  • SV-239146r863032_rule
If the operating system allows the user to select passwords based on dictionary words, this increases the chances of password compromise by increasing the opportunity for successful guesses and brute-force attacks.
Checks: C-42357r863031_chk

At the command line, execute the following command: # grep pam_cracklib /etc/pam.d/system-password If the output does not return at least "password requisite pam_cracklib.so", this is a finding. NOTE: After the fix is implemented, the check will not pass until either a reboot is performed or both files are modified, which happens automatically on reboot.

Fix: F-42316r816653_fix

Open /etc/applmgmt/appliance/system-password with a text editor. Comment out any existing "pam_cracklib.so" line and add the following: password requisite pam_cracklib.so dcredit=-1 ucredit=-1 lcredit=-1 ocredit=-1 minlen=8 minclass=4 difok=4 retry=3 maxsequence=0 enforce_for_root Save and close.

b
The Photon operating system must set the FAIL_DELAY parameter.
CM-6 - Medium - CCI-000366 - V-239147 - SV-239147r675249_rule
RMF Control
CM-6
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-000366
Version
PHTN-67-000076
Vuln IDs
  • V-239147
Rule IDs
  • SV-239147r675249_rule
Limiting the number of logon attempts over a certain time interval reduces the chances that an unauthorized user may gain access to an account.
Checks: C-42358r675247_chk

At the command line, execute the following command: # grep FAIL_DELAY /etc/login.defs Expected result: FAIL_DELAY 4 If the output does not match the expected result, this is a finding.

Fix: F-42317r675248_fix

Open /etc/login.defs with a text editor. Add the following line after the last auth statement: FAIL_DELAY 4

b
The Photon operating system must enforce a delay of at least four seconds between logon prompts following a failed logon attempt.
CM-6 - Medium - CCI-000366 - V-239148 - SV-239148r675252_rule
RMF Control
CM-6
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-000366
Version
PHTN-67-000077
Vuln IDs
  • V-239148
Rule IDs
  • SV-239148r675252_rule
Limiting the number of logon attempts over a certain time interval reduces the chances that an unauthorized user may gain access to an account.
Checks: C-42359r675250_chk

At the command line, execute the following command: # grep pam_faildelay /etc/pam.d/system-auth|grep --color=always "delay=" Expected result: auth      optional    pam_faildelay.so  delay=4000000 If the output does not match the expected result, this is a finding.

Fix: F-42318r675251_fix

Open /etc/pam.d/system-auth with a text editor. Remove any existing "pam_faildelay" line and add the following line at the end of the file: auth      optional    pam_faildelay.so  delay=4000000

b
The Photon operating system must ensure audit events are flushed to disk at proper intervals.
CM-6 - Medium - CCI-000366 - V-239149 - SV-239149r675255_rule
RMF Control
CM-6
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-000366
Version
PHTN-67-000078
Vuln IDs
  • V-239149
Rule IDs
  • SV-239149r675255_rule
Without setting a balance between performance and ensuring all audit events are written to disk, performance of the system may suffer or the risk of missing audit entries may be too high.
Checks: C-42360r675253_chk

At the command line, execute the following command: # grep -E "freq|flush" /etc/audit/auditd.conf Expected result: flush = INCREMENTAL_ASYNC freq = 50 If the output does not match the expected result, this is a finding.

Fix: F-42319r675254_fix

Open /etc/audit/auditd.conf with a text editor. Ensure that the line below is present and any existing "flush" and "freq" settings are removed. flush = INCREMENTAL_ASYNC freq = 50

b
The Photon operating system must ensure root $PATH entries are appropriate.
CM-6 - Medium - CCI-000366 - V-239150 - SV-239150r675258_rule
RMF Control
CM-6
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-000366
Version
PHTN-67-000079
Vuln IDs
  • V-239150
Rule IDs
  • SV-239150r675258_rule
The $PATH variable contains a semicolon-delimited set of directories that allows root to not specify the full path for a limited set of binaries. Having unexpected directories in $PATH can lead to root running a binary other than the one intended.
Checks: C-42361r675256_chk

At the command line, execute the following command: # echo $PATH Expected result: /usr/local/bin:/usr/bin:/bin:/usr/sbin:/sbin:/usr/java/jre-vmware/bin:/opt/vmware/bin If the output does not match the expected result, this is a finding.

Fix: F-42320r675257_fix

At the command line, execute the following command: # export PATH=/usr/local/bin:/usr/bin:/bin:/usr/sbin:/sbin:/usr/java/jre-vmware/bin:/opt/vmware/bin

b
The Photon operating system must create a home directory for all new local interactive user accounts.
CM-6 - Medium - CCI-000366 - V-239151 - SV-239151r675261_rule
RMF Control
CM-6
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-000366
Version
PHTN-67-000080
Vuln IDs
  • V-239151
Rule IDs
  • SV-239151r675261_rule
If local interactive users are not assigned a valid home directory, there is no place for the storage and control of files they should own.
Checks: C-42362r675259_chk

At the command line, execute the following command: # grep -i "^create_home" /etc/login.defs If there is no output or the output does not equal "CREATE_HOME yes", this is a finding.

Fix: F-42321r675260_fix

Open /etc/login.defs with a text editor. Ensure that the following is present and any existing CREATE_HOME line is removed: CREATE_HOME yes

b
The Photon operating system must disable the debug-shell service.
CM-6 - Medium - CCI-000366 - V-239152 - SV-239152r675264_rule
RMF Control
CM-6
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-000366
Version
PHTN-67-000081
Vuln IDs
  • V-239152
Rule IDs
  • SV-239152r675264_rule
The debug-shell service is intended to diagnose system-related boot issues with various systemctl commands. Once enabled and following a system reboot, the root shell will be available on tty9. This service must remain disabled until and unless otherwise directed by VMware support.
Checks: C-42363r675262_chk

At the command line, execute the following command: # systemctl status debug-shell.service|grep -E --color=always disabled If the debug-shell service is not disabled, this is a finding.

Fix: F-42322r675263_fix

At the command line, execute the following commands: # systemctl stop debug-shell.service # systemctl disable debug-shell.service Reboot for changes to take effect.

b
The Photon operating system must configure sshd to disallow Generic Security Service Application Program Interface (GSSAPI) authentication.
CM-6 - Medium - CCI-000366 - V-239154 - SV-239154r675270_rule
RMF Control
CM-6
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-000366
Version
PHTN-67-000083
Vuln IDs
  • V-239154
Rule IDs
  • SV-239154r675270_rule
GSSAPI authentication is used to provide additional authentication mechanisms to applications. Allowing GSSAPI authentication through SSH exposes the system’s GSSAPI to remote hosts, increasing the attack surface of the system.
Checks: C-42365r675268_chk

At the command line, execute the following command: # sshd -T|&amp;grep -i GSSAPIAuthentication Expected result: GSSAPIAuthentication no If the output does not match the expected result, this is a finding.

Fix: F-42324r675269_fix

Open /etc/ssh/sshd_config with a text editor. Ensure that the "GSSAPIAuthentication" line is uncommented and set to the following: GSSAPIAuthentication no At the command line, execute the following command: # service sshd reload

b
The Photon operating system must configure sshd to disable environment processing.
CM-6 - Medium - CCI-000366 - V-239155 - SV-239155r675273_rule
RMF Control
CM-6
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-000366
Version
PHTN-67-000084
Vuln IDs
  • V-239155
Rule IDs
  • SV-239155r675273_rule
Enabling environment processing may enable users to bypass access restrictions in some configurations and must therefore be disabled.
Checks: C-42366r675271_chk

At the command line, execute the following command: sshd -T|&amp;grep -i PermitUserEnvironment Expected result: PermitUserEnvironment no If the output does not match the expected result, this is a finding.

Fix: F-42325r675272_fix

Open /etc/ssh/sshd_config with a text editor. Ensure that the "PermitUserEnvironment" line is uncommented and set to the following: PermitUserEnvironment no At the command line, execute the following command: # service sshd reload

b
The Photon operating system must configure sshd to disable X11 forwarding.
CM-6 - Medium - CCI-000366 - V-239156 - SV-239156r675276_rule
RMF Control
CM-6
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-000366
Version
PHTN-67-000085
Vuln IDs
  • V-239156
Rule IDs
  • SV-239156r675276_rule
X11 is an older, insecure graphics forwarding protocol. It is not used by Photon and should be disabled as a general best practice to limit attack surface area and communication channels.
Checks: C-42367r675274_chk

At the command line, execute the following command: # sshd -T|&amp;grep -i X11Forwarding Expected result: X11Forwarding no If the output does not match the expected result, this is a finding.

Fix: F-42326r675275_fix

Open /etc/ssh/sshd_config with a text editor. Ensure that the "X11Forwarding" line is uncommented and set to the following: X11Forwarding no At the command line, execute the following command: # service sshd reload

b
The Photon operating system must configure sshd to perform strict mode checking of home directory configuration files.
CM-6 - Medium - CCI-000366 - V-239157 - SV-239157r675279_rule
RMF Control
CM-6
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-000366
Version
PHTN-67-000086
Vuln IDs
  • V-239157
Rule IDs
  • SV-239157r675279_rule
If other users have access to modify user-specific SSH configuration files, they may be able to log on to the system as another user.
Checks: C-42368r675277_chk

At the command line, execute the following command: # sshd -T|&amp;grep -i StrictModes Expected result: StrictModes yes If the output does not match the expected result, this is a finding.

Fix: F-42327r675278_fix

Open /etc/ssh/sshd_config with a text editor. Ensure that the "StrictModes" line is uncommented and set to the following: StrictModes yes At the command line, execute the following command: # service sshd reload

b
The Photon operating system must configure sshd to disallow Kerberos authentication.
CM-6 - Medium - CCI-000366 - V-239158 - SV-239158r675282_rule
RMF Control
CM-6
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-000366
Version
PHTN-67-000087
Vuln IDs
  • V-239158
Rule IDs
  • SV-239158r675282_rule
If Kerberos is enabled through SSH, sshd provides a means of access to the system's Kerberos implementation. Vulnerabilities in the system's Kerberos implementation may then be subject to exploitation. To reduce the attack surface of the system, the Kerberos authentication mechanism within SSH must be disabled.
Checks: C-42369r675280_chk

At the command line, execute the following command: # sshd -T|&amp;grep -i KerberosAuthentication Expected result: KerberosAuthentication no If the output does not match the expected result, this is a finding.

Fix: F-42328r675281_fix

Open /etc/ssh/sshd_config with a text editor. Ensure that the "KerberosAuthentication" line is uncommented and set to the following: KerberosAuthentication no At the command line, execute the following command: # service sshd reload

b
The Photon operating system must configure sshd to use privilege separation.
CM-6 - Medium - CCI-000366 - V-239159 - SV-239159r675285_rule
RMF Control
CM-6
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-000366
Version
PHTN-67-000088
Vuln IDs
  • V-239159
Rule IDs
  • SV-239159r675285_rule
Privilege separation in sshd causes the process to drop root privileges when not needed, which would decrease the impact of software vulnerabilities in the unprivileged section.
Checks: C-42370r675283_chk

At the command line, execute the following command: # sshd -T|&amp;grep -i UsePrivilegeSeparation Expected result: UsePrivilegeSeparation yes If the output does not match the expected result, this is a finding.

Fix: F-42329r675284_fix

Open /etc/ssh/sshd_config with a text editor. Ensure that the "UsePrivilegeSeparation" line is uncommented and set to the following: UsePrivilegeSeparation yes At the command line, execute the following command: # service sshd reload

b
The Photon operating system must configure sshd to disallow authentication with an empty password.
CM-6 - Medium - CCI-000366 - V-239160 - SV-239160r675288_rule
RMF Control
CM-6
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-000366
Version
PHTN-67-000089
Vuln IDs
  • V-239160
Rule IDs
  • SV-239160r675288_rule
Blank passwords are one of the first things an attacker checks for when probing a system. Even is the user somehow has a blank password on the OS, sshd must not allow that user to log in.
Checks: C-42371r675286_chk

At the command line, execute the following command: # sshd -T|&amp;grep -i PermitEmptyPasswords Expected result: PermitEmptyPasswords no If the output does not match the expected result, this is a finding.

Fix: F-42330r675287_fix

Open /etc/ssh/sshd_config with a text editor. Ensure that the "PermitEmptyPasswords" line is uncommented and set to the following: PermitEmptyPasswords no At the command line, execute the following command: # service sshd reload

b
The Photon operating system must configure sshd to disallow compression of the encrypted session stream.
CM-6 - Medium - CCI-000366 - V-239161 - SV-239161r675291_rule
RMF Control
CM-6
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-000366
Version
PHTN-67-000090
Vuln IDs
  • V-239161
Rule IDs
  • SV-239161r675291_rule
If compression is allowed in an SSH connection prior to authentication, vulnerabilities in the compression software could result in compromise of the system from an unauthenticated connection.
Checks: C-42372r675289_chk

At the command line, execute the following command: # sshd -T|&amp;grep -i Compression Expected result: Compression no If the output does not match the expected result, this is a finding.

Fix: F-42331r675290_fix

Open /etc/ssh/sshd_config with a text editor. Ensure that the "Compression" line is uncommented and set to the following: Compression no At the command line, execute the following command: # service sshd reload

b
The Photon operating system must configure sshd to display the last login immediately after authentication.
CM-6 - Medium - CCI-000366 - V-239162 - SV-239162r675294_rule
RMF Control
CM-6
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-000366
Version
PHTN-67-000091
Vuln IDs
  • V-239162
Rule IDs
  • SV-239162r675294_rule
Providing users with feedback on the last time they logged on via SSH facilitates user recognition and reporting of unauthorized account use.
Checks: C-42373r675292_chk

At the command line, execute the following command: # sshd -T|&amp;grep -i PrintLastLog Expected result: PrintLastLog yes If the output does not match the expected result, this is a finding.

Fix: F-42332r675293_fix

Open /etc/ssh/sshd_config with a text editor. Ensure that the "PrintLastLog" line is uncommented and set to the following: PrintLastLog yes At the command line, execute the following command: # service sshd reload

b
The Photon operating system must configure sshd to ignore user-specific trusted hosts lists.
CM-6 - Medium - CCI-000366 - V-239163 - SV-239163r675297_rule
RMF Control
CM-6
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-000366
Version
PHTN-67-000092
Vuln IDs
  • V-239163
Rule IDs
  • SV-239163r675297_rule
SSH trust relationships enable trivial lateral spread after a host compromise and therefore must be explicitly disabled. Individual users can have a local list of trusted remote machines, which must also be ignored while disabling host-based authentication generally.
Checks: C-42374r675295_chk

At the command line, execute the following command: # sshd -T|&amp;grep -i IgnoreRhosts Expected result: IgnoreRhosts yes If the output does not match the expected result, this is a finding.

Fix: F-42333r675296_fix

Open /etc/ssh/sshd_config with a text editor. Ensure that the "IgnoreRhosts" line is uncommented and set to the following: IgnoreRhosts yes At the command line, execute the following command: # service sshd reload

b
The Photon operating system must configure sshd to ignore user-specific known_host files.
CM-6 - Medium - CCI-000366 - V-239164 - SV-239164r675300_rule
RMF Control
CM-6
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-000366
Version
PHTN-67-000093
Vuln IDs
  • V-239164
Rule IDs
  • SV-239164r675300_rule
SSH trust relationships enable trivial lateral spread after a host compromise and therefore must be explicitly disabled. Individual users can have a local list of trusted remote machines which must also be ignored while disabling host-based authentication generally.
Checks: C-42375r675298_chk

At the command line, execute the following command: # sshd -T|&amp;grep -i IgnoreUserKnownHosts Expected result: IgnoreUserKnownHosts yes If the output does not match the expected result, this is a finding.

Fix: F-42334r675299_fix

Open /etc/ssh/sshd_config with a text editor. Ensure that the "IgnoreUserKnownHosts" line is uncommented and set to the following: IgnoreUserKnownHosts yes At the command line, execute the following command: # service sshd reload

b
The Photon operating system must configure sshd to limit the number of allowed login attempts per connection.
CM-6 - Medium - CCI-000366 - V-239165 - SV-239165r675303_rule
RMF Control
CM-6
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-000366
Version
PHTN-67-000094
Vuln IDs
  • V-239165
Rule IDs
  • SV-239165r675303_rule
By setting the login attempt limit to a low value, an attacker will be forced to reconnect frequently, which severely limits the speed and effectiveness of brute-force attacks.
Checks: C-42376r675301_chk

At the command line, execute the following command: # sshd -T|&amp;grep -i MaxAuthTries Expected result: MaxAuthTries 2 If the output does not match the expected result, this is a finding.

Fix: F-42335r675302_fix

Open /etc/ssh/sshd_config with a text editor. Ensure that the "MaxAuthTries" line is uncommented and set to the following: MaxAuthTries 2 At the command line, execute the following command: # service sshd reload

b
The Photon operating system must be configured so that the x86 Ctrl-Alt-Delete key sequence is disabled on the command line.
CM-6 - Medium - CCI-000366 - V-239166 - SV-239166r675306_rule
RMF Control
CM-6
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-000366
Version
PHTN-67-000095
Vuln IDs
  • V-239166
Rule IDs
  • SV-239166r675306_rule
When the Ctrl-Alt-Del target is enabled, a locally logged-on user who presses Ctrl-Alt-Delete, when at the console, can reboot the system. If accidentally pressed, as could happen in the case of a mixed OS environment, this can create the risk of short-term loss of systems availability due to unintentional reboot.
Checks: C-42377r675304_chk

At the command line, execute the following command: # systemctl status ctrl-alt-del.target Expected result: ctrl-alt-del.target Loaded: masked (/dev/null; bad) Active: inactive (dead) If the output does not match the expected result, this is a finding.

Fix: F-42336r675305_fix

At the command line, execute the following command: # systemctl mask ctrl-alt-del.target

b
The Photon operating system must be configured so that the /etc/skel default scripts are protected from unauthorized modification.
CM-6 - Medium - CCI-000366 - V-239167 - SV-239167r675309_rule
RMF Control
CM-6
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-000366
Version
PHTN-67-000096
Vuln IDs
  • V-239167
Rule IDs
  • SV-239167r675309_rule
If the skeleton files are not protected, unauthorized personnel could change user startup parameters and possibly jeopardize user files.
Checks: C-42378r675307_chk

At the command line, execute the following command: # stat -c "%n permissions are %a and owned by %U:%G" /etc/skel/.[^.]* Expected result: /etc/skel/.bash_logout permissions are 750 and owned by root:root /etc/skel/.bash_profile permissions are 644 and owned by root:root /etc/skel/.bashrc permissions are 750 and owned by root:root If the output does not match the expected result, this is a finding.

Fix: F-42337r675308_fix

At the command line, execute the following commands: # chmod 750 /etc/skel/.bash_logout # chmod 644 /etc/skel/.bash_profile # chmod 750 /etc/skel/.bashrc # chown root:root /etc/skel/.bash_logout # chown root:root /etc/skel/.bash_profile # chown root:root /etc/skel/.bashrc

b
The Photon operating system must be configured so that the /root path is protected from unauthorized access.
CM-6 - Medium - CCI-000366 - V-239168 - SV-239168r675312_rule
RMF Control
CM-6
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-000366
Version
PHTN-67-000097
Vuln IDs
  • V-239168
Rule IDs
  • SV-239168r675312_rule
If the /root path is accessible from users other than root, unauthorized users could change the root partitions files.
Checks: C-42379r675310_chk

At the command line, execute the following command: # stat -c "%n permissions are %a and owned by %U:%G" /root Expected result: /root permissions are 700 and owned by root:root If the output does not match the expected result, this is a finding.

Fix: F-42338r675311_fix

At the command line, execute the following commands: # chmod 700 /root # chown root:root /root

b
The Photon operating system must be configured so that all global initialization scripts are protected from unauthorized modification.
CM-6 - Medium - CCI-000366 - V-239169 - SV-239169r675315_rule
RMF Control
CM-6
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-000366
Version
PHTN-67-000098
Vuln IDs
  • V-239169
Rule IDs
  • SV-239169r675315_rule
Local initialization files are used to configure the user's shell environment upon login. Malicious modification of these files could compromise accounts upon login.
Checks: C-42380r675313_chk

At the command line, execute the following command: # find /etc/bash.bashrc /etc/profile /etc/profile.d/ -xdev -type f -a '(' -perm -002 -o -not -user root -o -not -group root ')' -exec ls -ld {} \; If any files are returned, this is a finding.

Fix: F-42339r675314_fix

At the command line, execute the following commands for each returned file: # chmod o-w <file> # chown root:root <file>

b
The Photon operating system must be configured so that all system startup scripts are protected from unauthorized modification.
CM-6 - Medium - CCI-000366 - V-239170 - SV-239170r675318_rule
RMF Control
CM-6
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-000366
Version
PHTN-67-000099
Vuln IDs
  • V-239170
Rule IDs
  • SV-239170r675318_rule
If system startup scripts are accessible to unauthorized modification, this could compromise the system on startup.
Checks: C-42381r675316_chk

At the command line, execute the following command: # find /etc/rc.d/* -xdev -type f -a '(' -perm -002 -o -not -user root -o -not -group root ')' -exec ls -ld {} \; If any files are returned, this is a finding.

Fix: F-42340r675317_fix

At the command line, execute the following commands for each returned file: # chmod o-w <file> # chown root:root <file>

b
The Photon operating system must be configured so that all files have a valid owner and group owner.
CM-6 - Medium - CCI-000366 - V-239171 - SV-239171r675321_rule
RMF Control
CM-6
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-000366
Version
PHTN-67-000100
Vuln IDs
  • V-239171
Rule IDs
  • SV-239171r675321_rule
If files do not have valid user and group owners, unintended access to files could occur.
Checks: C-42382r675319_chk

At the command line, execute the following command: # find / -fstype ext4 -nouser -o -nogroup -exec ls -ld {} \; If any files are returned, this is a finding.

Fix: F-42341r675320_fix

At the command line, execute the following command for each returned file: # chown root:root <file>

b
The Photon operating system must be configured so that the /etc/cron.allow file is protected from unauthorized modification.
CM-6 - Medium - CCI-000366 - V-239172 - SV-239172r675324_rule
RMF Control
CM-6
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-000366
Version
PHTN-67-000101
Vuln IDs
  • V-239172
Rule IDs
  • SV-239172r675324_rule
If cron files and folders are accessible to unauthorized users, malicious jobs may be created.
Checks: C-42383r675322_chk

At the command line, execute the following command: # stat -c "%n permissions are %a and owned by %U:%G" /etc/cron.allow Expected result: /etc/cron.allow permissions are 600 and owned by root:root If the output does not match the expected result, this is a finding.

Fix: F-42342r675323_fix

At the command line, execute the following commands: # chmod 600 /etc/cron.allow # chown root:root /etc/cron.allow

b
The Photon operating system must be configured so that all cron jobs are protected from unauthorized modification.
CM-6 - Medium - CCI-000366 - V-239173 - SV-239173r675327_rule
RMF Control
CM-6
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-000366
Version
PHTN-67-000102
Vuln IDs
  • V-239173
Rule IDs
  • SV-239173r675327_rule
If cron files and folders are accessible to unauthorized users, malicious jobs may be created.
Checks: C-42384r675325_chk

At the command line, execute the following command: # find /etc/cron.d/ /etc/cron.daily/ /etc/cron.hourly/ /etc/cron.monthly/ /etc/cron.weekly/ -xdev -type f -a '(' -perm -002 -o -not -user root -o -not -group root ')' -exec ls -ld {} \; If any files are returned, this is a finding.

Fix: F-42343r675326_fix

At the command line, execute the following commands for each returned file: # chmod o-w <file> # chown root:root <file>

b
The Photon operating system must be configured so that all cron paths are protected from unauthorized modification.
CM-6 - Medium - CCI-000366 - V-239174 - SV-239174r675330_rule
RMF Control
CM-6
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-000366
Version
PHTN-67-000103
Vuln IDs
  • V-239174
Rule IDs
  • SV-239174r675330_rule
If cron files and folders are accessible to unauthorized users, malicious jobs may be created.
Checks: C-42385r675328_chk

At the command line, execute the following command: # stat -c "%n permissions are %a and owned by %U:%G" /etc/cron.d /etc/cron.daily /etc/cron.hourly /etc/cron.monthly /etc/cron.weekly Expected result: /etc/cron.d permissions are 755 and owned by root:root /etc/cron.daily permissions are 755 and owned by root:root /etc/cron.hourly permissions are 755 and owned by root:root /etc/cron.monthly permissions are 755 and owned by root:root /etc/cron.weekly permissions are 755 and owned by root:root If the output does not match the expected result, this is a finding.

Fix: F-42344r675329_fix

At the command line, execute the following commands for each returned file: # chmod 755 <path> # chown root:root <path>

b
The Photon operating system must not forward IPv4 or IPv6 source-routed packets.
CM-6 - Medium - CCI-000366 - V-239175 - SV-239175r816656_rule
RMF Control
CM-6
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-000366
Version
PHTN-67-000104
Vuln IDs
  • V-239175
Rule IDs
  • SV-239175r816656_rule
Source routing is an Internet Protocol (IP) mechanism that allows an IP packet to carry information, a list of addresses, which tells a router the path the packet must take. There is also an option to record the hops as the route is traversed. The list of hops taken, the "route record", provides the destination with a return path to the source. This allows the source (the sending host) to specify the route, loosely or strictly, ignoring the routing tables of some or all of the routers. It can allow a user to redirect network traffic for malicious purposes and should therefore be disabled.
Checks: C-42386r675331_chk

At the command line, execute the following command: # /sbin/sysctl -a --pattern "net.ipv[4|6].conf.(all|default|eth.*).accept_source_route" Expected result: net.ipv4.conf.all.accept_source_route = 0 net.ipv4.conf.default.accept_source_route = 0 net.ipv4.conf.eth0.accept_source_route = 0 net.ipv6.conf.all.accept_source_route = 0 net.ipv6.conf.default.accept_source_route = 0 net.ipv6.conf.eth0.accept_source_route = 0 If the output does not match the expected result, this is a finding. Note: The number of "ethx" lines returned is dependent on the number of interfaces. Every "ethx" entry must be set to "0".

Fix: F-42345r816655_fix

Open /etc/sysctl.conf with a text editor. Add or update the following lines: net.ipv4.conf.all.accept_source_route = 0 net.ipv4.conf.default.accept_source_route = 0 net.ipv4.conf.eth0.accept_source_route = 0 net.ipv6.conf.all.accept_source_route = 0 net.ipv6.conf.default.accept_source_route = 0 net.ipv6.conf.eth0.accept_source_route = 0 Run the following command to load the new setting: # /sbin/sysctl --load

b
The Photon operating system must not respond to IPv4 Internet Control Message Protocol (ICMP) echoes sent to a broadcast address.
CM-6 - Medium - CCI-000366 - V-239176 - SV-239176r816658_rule
RMF Control
CM-6
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-000366
Version
PHTN-67-000105
Vuln IDs
  • V-239176
Rule IDs
  • SV-239176r816658_rule
Responding to broadcast (ICMP) echoes facilitates network mapping and provides a vector for amplification attacks.
Checks: C-42387r675334_chk

At the command line, execute the following command: # /sbin/sysctl -a --pattern ignore_broadcasts Expected result: net.ipv4.icmp_echo_ignore_broadcasts = 1 If the output does not match the expected result, this is a finding.

Fix: F-42346r816657_fix

Open /etc/sysctl.conf with a text editor. Add or update the following line: net.ipv4.icmp_echo_ignore_broadcasts=1 Run the following command to load the new setting: # /sbin/sysctl --load

b
The Photon operating system must prevent IPv4 Internet Control Message Protocol (ICMP) redirect messages from being accepted.
CM-6 - Medium - CCI-000366 - V-239177 - SV-239177r816660_rule
RMF Control
CM-6
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-000366
Version
PHTN-67-000106
Vuln IDs
  • V-239177
Rule IDs
  • SV-239177r816660_rule
ICMP redirect messages are used by routers to inform hosts that a more direct route exists for a particular destination. These messages modify the host's route table and are unauthenticated. An illicit ICMP redirect message could result in a man-in-the-middle attack.
Checks: C-42388r675337_chk

At the command line, execute the following command: # /sbin/sysctl -a --pattern "net.ipv4.conf.(all|default|eth.*).accept_redirects" Expected result: net.ipv4.conf.all.accept_redirects = 0 net.ipv4.conf.default.accept_redirects = 0 net.ipv4.conf.eth0.accept_redirects = 0 If the output does not match the expected result, this is a finding. Note: The number of "ethx" lines returned is dependent on the number of interfaces. Every "ethx" entry must be set to "0".

Fix: F-42347r816659_fix

Open /etc/sysctl.conf with a text editor. Add or update the following lines: net.ipv4.conf.all.accept_redirects = 0 net.ipv4.conf.default.accept_redirects = 0 net.ipv4.conf.eth0.accept_redirects = 0 Run the following command to load the new setting: # /sbin/sysctl --load

b
The Photon operating system must prevent IPv4 Internet Control Message Protocol (ICMP) secure redirect messages from being accepted.
CM-6 - Medium - CCI-000366 - V-239178 - SV-239178r816662_rule
RMF Control
CM-6
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-000366
Version
PHTN-67-000107
Vuln IDs
  • V-239178
Rule IDs
  • SV-239178r816662_rule
ICMP redirect messages are used by routers to inform hosts that a more direct route exists for a particular destination. These messages modify the host's route table and are unauthenticated. An illicit ICMP redirect message could result in a man-in-the-middle attack.
Checks: C-42389r675340_chk

At the command line, execute the following command: # /sbin/sysctl -a --pattern "net.ipv4.conf.(all|default|eth.*).secure_redirects" Expected result: net.ipv4.conf.all.secure_redirects = 0 net.ipv4.conf.default.secure_redirects = 0 net.ipv4.conf.eth0.secure_redirects = 0 If the output does not match the expected result, this is a finding. Note: The number of "ethx" lines returned is dependent on the number of interfaces. Every "ethx" entry must be set to "0".

Fix: F-42348r816661_fix

Open /etc/sysctl.conf with a text editor. Add or update the following lines: net.ipv4.conf.all.secure_redirects = 0 net.ipv4.conf.default.secure_redirects = 0 net.ipv4.conf.eth0.secure_redirects = 0 Run the following command to load the new setting: # /sbin/sysctl --load

b
The Photon operating system must not send IPv4 Internet Control Message Protocol (ICMP) redirects.
CM-6 - Medium - CCI-000366 - V-239179 - SV-239179r816664_rule
RMF Control
CM-6
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-000366
Version
PHTN-67-000108
Vuln IDs
  • V-239179
Rule IDs
  • SV-239179r816664_rule
ICMP redirect messages are used by routers to inform hosts that a more direct route exists for a particular destination. These messages contain information from the system's route table, possibly revealing portions of the network topology.
Checks: C-42390r675343_chk

At the command line, execute the following command: # /sbin/sysctl -a --pattern "net.ipv4.conf.(all|default|eth.*).send_redirects" Expected result: net.ipv4.conf.all.send_redirects = 0 net.ipv4.conf.default.send_redirects = 0 net.ipv4.conf.eth0.send_redirects = 0 If the output does not match the expected result, this is a finding. Note: The number of "ethx" lines returned is dependent on the number of interfaces. Every "ethx" entry must be set to "0".

Fix: F-42349r816663_fix

Open /etc/sysctl.conf with a text editor. Add or update the following lines: net.ipv4.conf.all.send_redirects = 0 net.ipv4.conf.default.send_redirects = 0 net.ipv4.conf.eth0.send_redirects = 0 Run the following command to load the new setting: # /sbin/sysctl --load

b
The Photon operating system must log IPv4 packets with impossible addresses.
CM-6 - Medium - CCI-000366 - V-239180 - SV-239180r816666_rule
RMF Control
CM-6
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-000366
Version
PHTN-67-000109
Vuln IDs
  • V-239180
Rule IDs
  • SV-239180r816666_rule
The presence of "martian" packets (which have impossible addresses) as well as spoofed packets, source-routed packets, and redirects could be a sign of nefarious network activity. Logging these packets enables this activity to be detected.
Checks: C-42391r675346_chk

At the command line, execute the following command: # /sbin/sysctl -a --pattern "net.ipv4.conf.(all|default|eth.*).log_martians" Expected result: net.ipv4.conf.all.log_martians = 1 net.ipv4.conf.default.log_martians = 1 net.ipv4.conf.eth0.log_martians = 1 If the output does not match the expected result, this is a finding. Note: The number of "ethx" lines returned is dependent on the number of interfaces. Every "ethx" entry must be set to "1".

Fix: F-42350r816665_fix

Open /etc/sysctl.conf with a text editor. Add or update the following lines: net.ipv4.conf.all.log_martians = 1 net.ipv4.conf.default.log_martians = 1 net.ipv4.conf.eth0.log_martians = 1 Run the following command to load the new setting: # /sbin/sysctl --load

b
The Photon operating system must use a reverse-path filter for IPv4 network traffic.
CM-6 - Medium - CCI-000366 - V-239181 - SV-239181r816668_rule
RMF Control
CM-6
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-000366
Version
PHTN-67-000110
Vuln IDs
  • V-239181
Rule IDs
  • SV-239181r816668_rule
Enabling reverse path filtering drops packets with source addresses that should not have been able to be received on the interface they were received on. It should not be used on systems that are routers for complicated networks but is helpful for end hosts and routers serving small networks.
Checks: C-42392r675349_chk

At the command line, execute the following command: # /sbin/sysctl -a --pattern "net.ipv4.conf.(all|default|eth.*)\.rp_filter" Expected result: net.ipv4.conf.all.rp_filter = 1 net.ipv4.conf.default.rp_filter = 1 net.ipv4.conf.eth0.rp_filter = 1 If the output does not match the expected result, this is a finding. Note: The number of "ethx" lines returned is dependent on the number of interfaces. Every "ethx" entry must be set to "1".

Fix: F-42351r816667_fix

Open /etc/sysctl.conf with a text editor. Add or update the following lines: net.ipv4.conf.all.rp_filter = 1 net.ipv4.conf.default.rp_filter = 1 net.ipv4.conf.eth0.rp_filter = 1 Run the following command to load the new setting: # /sbin/sysctl --load

b
The Photon operating system must not perform multicast packet forwarding.
CM-6 - Medium - CCI-000366 - V-239182 - SV-239182r816670_rule
RMF Control
CM-6
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-000366
Version
PHTN-67-000111
Vuln IDs
  • V-239182
Rule IDs
  • SV-239182r816670_rule
Routing protocol daemons are typically used on routers to exchange network topology information with other routers. If this software is used when not required, system network information may be unnecessarily transmitted across the network.
Checks: C-42393r675352_chk

At the command line, execute the following command: # /sbin/sysctl -a --pattern "net.ipv[4|6].conf.(all|default|eth.*).mc_forwarding" Expected result: net.ipv4.conf.all.mc_forwarding = 0 net.ipv4.conf.default.mc_forwarding = 0 net.ipv4.conf.eth0.mc_forwarding = 0 net.ipv6.conf.all.mc_forwarding = 0 net.ipv6.conf.default.mc_forwarding = 0 net.ipv6.conf.eth0.mc_forwarding = 0 If the output does not match the expected result, this is a finding. Note: The number of "ethx" lines returned is dependent on the number of interfaces. Every "ethx" entry must be set to "0".

Fix: F-42352r816669_fix

Open /etc/sysctl.conf with a text editor. Add or update the following lines: net.ipv4.conf.all.mc_forwarding = 0 net.ipv4.conf.default.mc_forwarding = 0 net.ipv4.conf.eth0.mc_forwarding = 0 net.ipv6.conf.all.mc_forwarding = 0 net.ipv6.conf.default.mc_forwarding = 0 net.ipv6.conf.eth0.mc_forwarding = 0 Run the following command to load the new setting: # /sbin/sysctl --load

b
The Photon operating system must not perform IPv4 packet forwarding.
CM-6 - Medium - CCI-000366 - V-239183 - SV-239183r816672_rule
RMF Control
CM-6
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-000366
Version
PHTN-67-000112
Vuln IDs
  • V-239183
Rule IDs
  • SV-239183r816672_rule
Routing protocol daemons are typically used on routers to exchange network topology information with other routers. If this software is used when not required, system network information may be unnecessarily transmitted across the network.
Checks: C-42394r675355_chk

At the command line, execute the following command: # /sbin/sysctl -a --pattern "net.ipv4.ip_forward$" Expected result: net.ipv4.ip_forward = 0 If the system is intended to operate as a router, this is N/A. If the output does not match the expected result, this is a finding.

Fix: F-42353r816671_fix

Open /etc/sysctl.conf with a text editor. Add or update the following line: net.ipv4.ip_forward = 0 Run the following command to load the new setting: # /sbin/sysctl --load

b
The Photon operating system must send TCP timestamps.
CM-6 - Medium - CCI-000366 - V-239184 - SV-239184r816674_rule
RMF Control
CM-6
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-000366
Version
PHTN-67-000113
Vuln IDs
  • V-239184
Rule IDs
  • SV-239184r816674_rule
TCP timestamps are used to provide protection against wrapped sequence numbers. It is possible to calculate system uptime (and boot time) by analyzing TCP timestamps. These calculated uptimes can help a bad actor in determining likely patch levels for vulnerabilities.
Checks: C-42395r675358_chk

At the command line, execute the following command: # /sbin/sysctl -a --pattern "net.ipv4.tcp_timestamps$" Expected result: net.ipv4.tcp_timestamps = 1 If the output does not match the expected result, this is a finding.

Fix: F-42354r816673_fix

Open /etc/sysctl.conf with a text editor. Add or update the following line: net.ipv4.tcp_timestamps = 1 Run the following command to load the new setting: # /sbin/sysctl --load

b
The Photon OS must not have the xinetd service enabled.
CM-6 - Medium - CCI-000366 - V-239185 - SV-239185r675363_rule
RMF Control
CM-6
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-000366
Version
PHTN-67-000114
Vuln IDs
  • V-239185
Rule IDs
  • SV-239185r675363_rule
The xinetd service is not required for normal appliance operation and must be disabled.
Checks: C-42396r675361_chk

At the command line, execute the following command: # systemctl is-enabled xinetd.service Expected result: disabled If the output does not match the expected result, this is a finding.

Fix: F-42355r675362_fix

At the command line, execute the following commands: # service xinetd stop # systemctl disable xinetd.service

b
The Photon operating system must be configured to protect the SSH public host key from unauthorized modification.
CM-6 - Medium - CCI-000366 - V-239186 - SV-239186r675366_rule
RMF Control
CM-6
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-000366
Version
PHTN-67-000115
Vuln IDs
  • V-239186
Rule IDs
  • SV-239186r675366_rule
If a public host key file is modified by an unauthorized user, the SSH service may be compromised.
Checks: C-42397r675364_chk

At the command line, execute the following command: # stat -c "%n permissions are %a and owned by %U:%G" /etc/ssh/*key.pub Expected result: /etc/ssh/ssh_host_dsa_key.pub permissions are 644 and owned by root:root /etc/ssh/ssh_host_ecdsa_key.pub permissions are 644 and owned by root:root /etc/ssh/ssh_host_ed25519_key.pub permissions are 644 and owned by root:root /etc/ssh/ssh_host_rsa_key.pub permissions are 644 and owned by root:root If the output does not match the expected result, this is a finding.

Fix: F-42356r675365_fix

At the command line, execute the following commands for each returned file: # chmod 644 <file> # chown root:root <file>

b
The Photon operating system must be configured to protect the SSH private host key from unauthorized access.
CM-6 - Medium - CCI-000366 - V-239187 - SV-239187r675369_rule
RMF Control
CM-6
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-000366
Version
PHTN-67-000116
Vuln IDs
  • V-239187
Rule IDs
  • SV-239187r675369_rule
If an unauthorized user obtains the private SSH host key file, the host could be impersonated.
Checks: C-42398r675367_chk

At the command line, execute the following command: # stat -c "%n permissions are %a and owned by %U:%G" /etc/ssh/*key Expected result: /etc/ssh/ssh_host_dsa_key permissions are 600 and owned by root:root /etc/ssh/ssh_host_ecdsa_key permissions are 600 and owned by root:root /etc/ssh/ssh_host_ed25519_key permissions are 600 and owned by root:root /etc/ssh/ssh_host_rsa_key permissions are 600 and owned by root:root If the output does not match the expected result, this is a finding.

Fix: F-42357r675368_fix

At the command line, execute the following commands for each returned file: # chmod 600 <file> # chown root:root <file>

b
The Photon operating system must enforce password complexity on the root account.
CM-6 - Medium - CCI-000366 - V-239188 - SV-239188r863035_rule
RMF Control
CM-6
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-000366
Version
PHTN-67-000117
Vuln IDs
  • V-239188
Rule IDs
  • SV-239188r863035_rule
Password complexity rules must apply to all accounts on the system, including root. Without specifying the enforce_for_root flag, pam_cracklib does not apply complexity rules to the root user. While root users can find ways around this requirement, given its superuser power, it is necessary to attempt to force compliance.
Checks: C-42399r863034_chk

At the command line, execute the following command: # grep pam_cracklib /etc/pam.d/system-password|grep --color=always "enforce_for_root" Expected result: password requisite pam_cracklib.so dcredit=-1 ucredit=-1 lcredit=-1 ocredit=-1 minlen=8 minclass=4 difok=4 retry=3 maxsequence=0 enforce_for_root If the output does not match the expected result, this is a finding. NOTE: After the fix is implemented, the check will not pass until either a reboot is performed or both files are modified, which happens automatically on reboot.

Fix: F-42358r816675_fix

Open /etc/applmgmt/appliance/system-password with a text editor. Comment out any existing "pam_cracklib.so" line and add the following: password requisite pam_cracklib.so dcredit=-1 ucredit=-1 lcredit=-1 ocredit=-1 minlen=8 minclass=4 difok=4 retry=3 maxsequence=0 enforce_for_root Save and close.

b
The Photon operating system must protect all boot configuration files from unauthorized access.
CM-6 - Medium - CCI-000366 - V-239189 - SV-239189r675375_rule
RMF Control
CM-6
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-000366
Version
PHTN-67-000118
Vuln IDs
  • V-239189
Rule IDs
  • SV-239189r675375_rule
Boot configuration files control how the system boots, including single-user mode, auditing, log levels, etc. Improper or malicious configurations can negatively affect system security and availability.
Checks: C-42400r675373_chk

At the command line, execute the following command: # find /boot/*.cfg -xdev -type f -a '(' -not -perm 600 -o -not -user root -o -not -group root ')' -exec ls -ld {} \; If any files are returned, this is a finding.

Fix: F-42359r675374_fix

At the command line, execute the following commands for each returned file: # chmod 600 <file> # chown root:root <file>

b
The Photon operating system must protect sshd configuration from unauthorized access.
CM-6 - Medium - CCI-000366 - V-239190 - SV-239190r675378_rule
RMF Control
CM-6
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-000366
Version
PHTN-67-000119
Vuln IDs
  • V-239190
Rule IDs
  • SV-239190r675378_rule
The sshd_config file contains all the configuration items for sshd. Incorrect or malicious configuration of sshd can allow unauthorized access to the system, insecure communication, limited forensic trail, etc.
Checks: C-42401r675376_chk

At the command line, execute the following command: # stat -c "%n permissions are %a and owned by %U:%G" /etc/ssh/sshd_config Expected result: /etc/ssh/sshd_config permissions are 600 and owned by root:root If the output does not match the expected result, this is a finding.

Fix: F-42360r675377_fix

At the command line, execute the following commands: # chmod 600 /etc/ssh/sshd_config # chown root:root /etc/ssh/sshd_config

b
The Photon operating system must protect all sysctl configuration files from unauthorized access.
CM-6 - Medium - CCI-000366 - V-239191 - SV-239191r675381_rule
RMF Control
CM-6
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-000366
Version
PHTN-67-000120
Vuln IDs
  • V-239191
Rule IDs
  • SV-239191r675381_rule
The sysctl configuration file specifies values for kernel parameters to be set on boot. Incorrect or malicious configuration of these parameters can have a negative effect on system security.
Checks: C-42402r675379_chk

At the command line, execute the following command: # find /etc/sysctl.conf /etc/sysctl.d/* -xdev -type f -a '(' -not -perm 600 -o -not -user root -o -not -group root ')' -exec ls -ld {} \; If any files are returned, this is a finding.

Fix: F-42361r675380_fix

At the command line, execute the following commands for each returned file: # chmod 600 <file> # chown root:root <file>

b
The Photon operating system must set the UMASK parameter correctly.
CM-6 - Medium - CCI-000366 - V-239193 - SV-239193r675387_rule
RMF Control
CM-6
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-000366
Version
PHTN-67-000122
Vuln IDs
  • V-239193
Rule IDs
  • SV-239193r675387_rule
The umask value influences the permissions assigned to files when they are created. The umask setting in login.defs controls the permissions for a new user's home directory. By setting the proper umask, home directories will only allow the new user to read and write files there. Satisfies: SRG-OS-000480-GPOS-00228, SRG-OS-000480-GPOS-00230
Checks: C-42404r675385_chk

At the command line, execute the following command: # grep UMASK /etc/login.defs Expected result: UMASK 077 If the output does not match the expected result, this a finding.

Fix: F-42363r675386_fix

Open /etc/login.defs with a text editor. Ensure that the "UMASK" line is uncommented and set to the following: UMASK 077

b
The Photon operating system must configure sshd to disallow HostbasedAuthentication.
CM-6 - Medium - CCI-000366 - V-239194 - SV-239194r877377_rule
RMF Control
CM-6
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-000366
Version
PHTN-67-000123
Vuln IDs
  • V-239194
Rule IDs
  • SV-239194r877377_rule
SSH trust relationships enable trivial lateral spread after a host compromise and therefore must be explicitly disabled.
Checks: C-42405r675388_chk

At the command line, execute the following command: # sshd -T|&amp;grep -i HostbasedAuthentication Expected result: hostbasedauthentication no If the output does not match the expected result, this is a finding.

Fix: F-42364r675389_fix

Open /etc/ssh/sshd_config with a text editor. Ensure that the "HostbasedAuthentication" line is uncommented and set to the following: HostbasedAuthentication no At the command line, execute the following command: # service sshd reload

b
The Photon operating system must enforce approved authorizations for logical access to information and system resources in accordance with applicable access control policies.
AC-3 - Medium - CCI-000213 - V-239195 - SV-239195r675393_rule
RMF Control
AC-3
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-000213
Version
PHTN-67-000124
Vuln IDs
  • V-239195
Rule IDs
  • SV-239195r675393_rule
If the system does not require authentication before it boots into single-user mode, anyone with vCenter console rights to the VCSA can trivially access all files on the system. GRUB2 is the boot loader for Photon OS and can be configured to require a password to boot into single-user mode or make modifications to the boot menu. Note: The VCSA does not support building grub changes via grub2-mkconfig.
Checks: C-42406r675391_chk

At the command line, execute the following command: # grep -i ^password_pbkdf2 /boot/grub2/grub.cfg If there is no output, this is a finding. If the output does not begin with "password_pbkdf2 root", this is a finding.

Fix: F-42365r675392_fix

At the command line, execute the following command: # grub2-mkpasswd-pbkdf2 Enter a secure password and ensure this password is stored for break-glass situations. The vCenter root account cannot be recovered without knowing this separate password. Copy the resulting encrypted string. An example string follows: grub.pbkdf2.sha512.10000.983A13DF3C51BB2B5130F0B86DDBF0DEA1AAF766BD1F16B7840F79CE3E35494C4B99F505C99C150071E563DF1D7FE1F45456D5960C4C79DAB6C49298B02A5558.5B2C49E12D43CC5A876F6738462DE4EFC24939D4BE486CDB72CFBCD87FDE93FBAFCB817E01B90F23E53C2502C3230502BC3113BE4F80B0AFC0EE956E735F7F86 Open /boot/grub2/grub.cfg with a text editor. Find the line that begins with "set rootpartition". Below this line, paste the following on its own line: set superusers="root" Below this, paste the following, substituting your own encrypted string from the steps above: password_pbkdf2 root <YOUR-LONG-STRING-FROM-ABOVE> The VCSA ships with one "menuentry" block by default. Copy that entire block and paste it right below that block. Example: menuentry "Photon" { linux "/"$photon_linux root=$rootpartition net.ifnames=0 $photon_cmdline coredump_filter=0x37 consoleblank=0 if [ "$photon_initrd" ]; then initrd "/"$photon_initrd fi } menuentry "Photon" { linux "/"$photon_linux root=$rootpartition net.ifnames=0 $photon_cmdline coredump_filter=0x37 consoleblank=0 if [ "$photon_initrd" ]; then initrd "/"$photon_initrd fi } Modify the first menuentry block to add the "--unrestricted" option as follows: menuentry "Photon" --unrestricted { Modify the second menuentry block to add the allowed user as follows: menuentry "Recover Photon" --users root { This concludes the fix. To verify, following is an example grub.cfg snippet: ... set rootpartition=PARTUUID=326e5b0f-42fb-471a-8209-18964c4a2ed3 set superusers="root" password_pbkdf2 root grub.pbkdf2.sha512.10000.983A13DF3C51BB2B5130F0B86DDBF0DEA1AAF766BD1F16B7840F79CE3E35494C4B99F505C99C150071E563DF1D7FE1F45456D5960C4C79DAB6C49298B02A5558.5B2C49E12D43CC5A876F6738462DE4EFC24939D4BE486CDB72CFBCD87FDE93FBAFCB817E01B90F23E53C2502C3230502BC3113BE4F80B0AFC0EE956E735F7F86 menuentry "Photon" --unrestricted { linux "/"$photon_linux root=$rootpartition net.ifnames=0 $photon_cmdline coredump_filter=0x37 consoleblank=0 if [ "$photon_initrd" ]; then initrd "/"$photon_initrd fi } menuentry "Recover Photon" --users root { linux "/"$photon_linux root=$rootpartition net.ifnames=0 $photon_cmdline coredump_filter=0x37 consoleblank=0 if [ "$photon_initrd" ]; then initrd "/"$photon_initrd fi }

b
The Photon operating system must audit all account modifications.
AU-12 - Medium - CCI-000172 - V-251878 - SV-251878r816564_rule
RMF Control
AU-12
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-000172
Version
PHTN-67-000044
Vuln IDs
  • V-251878
Rule IDs
  • SV-251878r816564_rule
Once an attacker establishes access to a system, the attacker often attempts to create a persistent method of reestablishing access. One way to accomplish this is for the attacker to modify an existing account. Auditing account modification actions provides logging that can be used for forensic purposes.
Checks: C-55336r816562_chk

At the command line, execute the following command: # auditctl -l | grep -E "(usermod|groupmod)" Expected result: -w /usr/sbin/usermod -p x -k usermod -w /usr/sbin/groupmod -p x -k groupmod If the output does not match the expected result, this is a finding. Note: This check depends on the auditd service to be in a running state for accurate results. Enabling the auditd service is done as part of a separate control.

Fix: F-55288r816563_fix

Open /etc/audit/rules.d/audit.STIG.rules with a text editor and add the following lines: -w /usr/sbin/usermod -p x -k usermod -w /usr/sbin/groupmod -p x -k groupmod At the command line, execute the following command: # /sbin/augenrules --load

c
The version of the Photon OS running on the server must be a supported version.
CM-6 - High - CCI-000366 - V-257280 - SV-257280r919199_rule
RMF Control
CM-6
Severity
High
CCI
CCI-000366
Version
PHTN-67-000999
Vuln IDs
  • V-257280
Rule IDs
  • SV-257280r919199_rule
Security flaws with software applications are discovered daily. Vendors are constantly updating and patching their products to address newly discovered security vulnerabilities. Organizations (including any contractor to the organization) are required to promptly install security-relevant software updates (e.g., patches, service packs, and hot fixes). Flaws discovered during security assessments, continuous monitoring, incident response activities, or information system error handling must also be addressed expeditiously. Organization-defined time periods for updating security-relevant software may vary based on a variety of factors including, for example, the security category of the information system or the criticality of the update (i.e., severity of the vulnerability related to the discovered flaw). This requirement will apply to software patch management solutions that are used to install patches across the enclave and to applications that are not part of that patch management solution. For example, many browsers today provide the capability to install their own patch software. Patch criticality, as well as system criticality, will vary. Therefore, the tactical situations regarding the patch management process will also vary. This means the time period used must be a configurable parameter. Time frames for application of security-relevant software updates may be dependent upon the Information Assurance Vulnerability Management (IAVM) process. The application will be configured to check for and install security-relevant software updates within an identified time period from the availability of the update. The specific time period will be defined by an authoritative source (e.g., IAVM, CTOs, DTMs, and STIGs).
Checks: C-60964r918879_chk

Photon OS 6.7 is no longer supported by the vendor. If the server is running Photon OS 6.7, this is a finding.

Fix: F-53958r798705_fix

Upgrade to a supported version.