WLAN Bridge Security Technical Implementation Guide (STIG)

  • Version/Release: V6R14
  • Published: 2018-03-01
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This STIG contains the technical security controls for the operation of a WLAN bridge in the DoD environment.
c
Network devices must be password protected.
High - V-3012 - SV-3012r4_rule
RMF Control
Severity
High
CCI
Version
NET0230
Vuln IDs
  • V-3012
Rule IDs
  • SV-3012r4_rule
Network access control mechanisms interoperate to prevent unauthorized access and to enforce the organization's security policy. Access to the network must be categorized as administrator, user, or guest so the appropriate authorization can be assigned to the user requesting access to the network or a network device. Authorization requires an individual account identifier that has been approved, assigned, and configured on an authentication server. Authentication of user identities is accomplished through the use of passwords, tokens, biometrics, or in the case of multi-factor authentication, some combination thereof. Lack of authentication enables anyone to gain access to the network or possibly a network device providing opportunity for intruders to compromise resources within the network infrastructure.Information Assurance Officer
Checks: C-3456r6_chk

Review the network devices configuration to determine if administrative access to the device requires some form of authentication--at a minimum a password is required. If passwords aren't used to administrative access to the device, this is a finding.

Fix: F-3037r6_fix

Configure the network devices so it will require a password to gain administrative access to the device.

b
Network devices must display the DoD-approved logon banner warning.
Medium - V-3013 - SV-3013r4_rule
RMF Control
Severity
Medium
CCI
Version
NET0340
Vuln IDs
  • V-3013
Rule IDs
  • SV-3013r4_rule
All network devices must present a DoD-approved warning banner prior to a system administrator logging on. The banner should warn any unauthorized user not to proceed. It also should provide clear and unequivocal notice to both authorized and unauthorized personnel that access to the device is subject to monitoring to detect unauthorized usage. Failure to display the required logon warning banner prior to logon attempts will limit DoD's ability to prosecute unauthorized access and also presents the potential to give rise to criminal and civil liability for systems administrators and information systems managers. In addition, DISA's ability to monitor the device's usage is limited unless a proper warning banner is displayed. DoD CIO has issued new, mandatory policy standardizing the wording of "notice and consent" banners and matching user agreements for all Secret and below DoD information systems, including stand-alone systems by releasing DoD CIO Memo, "Policy on Use of Department of Defense (DoD) Information Systems Standard Consent Banner and User Agreement", dated 9 May 2008. The banner is mandatory and deviations are not permitted except as authorized in writing by the Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Information and Identity Assurance. Implementation of this banner verbiage is further directed to all DoD components for all DoD assets via USCYBERCOM CTO 08-008A.Information Assurance Officer
Checks: C-3474r10_chk

Review the device configuration or request that the administrator logon to the device and observe the terminal. Verify either Option A or Option B (for systems with character limitations) of the Standard Mandatory DoD Notice and Consent Banner is displayed at logon. The required banner verbiage follows and must be displayed verbatim: Option A 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. Option B If the system is incapable of displaying the required banner verbiage due to its size, a smaller banner must be used. The mandatory verbiage follows: "I've read & consent to terms in IS user agreem't." If the device configuration does not have a logon banner as stated above, this is a finding.

Fix: F-3038r8_fix

Configure all management interfaces to the network device to display the DoD-mandated warning banner verbiage at logon regardless of the means of connection or communication. The required banner verbiage that must be displayed verbatim is as follows: Option A 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. Option B If the system is incapable of displaying the required banner verbiage due to its size, a smaller banner must be used. The mandatory verbiage follows: "I've read & consent to terms in IS user agreem't."

b
The network devices must timeout management connections for administrative access after 10 minutes or less of inactivity.
Medium - V-3014 - SV-3014r4_rule
RMF Control
Severity
Medium
CCI
Version
NET1639
Vuln IDs
  • V-3014
Rule IDs
  • SV-3014r4_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 between the managed network device and a PC or terminal server when the later has been left unattended. In addition quickly terminating an idle session will also free up resources committed by the managed network device as well as reduce the risk of a management session from being hijacked. Setting the timeout of the session to 10 minutes or less increases the level of protection afforded critical network components.Information Assurance Officer
Checks: C-3540r6_chk

Review the management connection for administrative access and verify the network device is configured to time-out the connection at 10 minutes or less of inactivity. If the device does not terminate inactive management connections at 10 minutes or less, this is a finding.

Fix: F-3039r5_fix

Configure the network devices to ensure the timeout for unattended administrative access connections is no longer than 10 minutes.

b
The network device must use different SNMP community names or groups for various levels of read and write access.
Medium - V-3043 - SV-3043r4_rule
RMF Control
Severity
Medium
CCI
Version
NET1675
Vuln IDs
  • V-3043
Rule IDs
  • SV-3043r4_rule
Numerous vulnerabilities exist with SNMP; therefore, without unique SNMP community names, the risk of compromise is dramatically increased. This is especially true with vendors default community names which are widely known by hackers and other networking experts. If a hacker gains access to these devices and can easily guess the name, this could result in denial of service, interception of sensitive information, or other destructive actions.Information Assurance Officer
Checks: C-3825r7_chk

Review the SNMP configuration of all managed nodes to ensure different community names (V1/2) or groups/users (V3) are configured for read-only and read-write access. If unique community strings or accounts are not used for SNMP peers, this is a finding.

Fix: F-3068r4_fix

Configure the SNMP community strings on the network device and change them from the default values. SNMP community strings and user passwords must be unique and not match any other network device passwords. Different community strings (V1/2) or groups (V3) must be configured for various levels of read and write access.

c
Group accounts must not be configured for use on the network device.
High - V-3056 - SV-3056r7_rule
RMF Control
Severity
High
CCI
Version
NET0460
Vuln IDs
  • V-3056
Rule IDs
  • SV-3056r7_rule
Group accounts configured for use on a network device do not allow for accountability or repudiation of individuals using the shared account. If group accounts are not changed when someone leaves the group, that person could possibly gain control of the network device. Having group accounts does not allow for proper auditing of who is accessing or changing the network.Information Assurance Officer
Checks: C-3503r11_chk

Review the network device configuration and validate there are no group accounts configured for access. If a group account is configured on the device, this is a finding.

Fix: F-3081r9_fix

Configure individual user accounts for each authorized person then remove any group accounts.

b
Authorized accounts must be assigned the least privilege level necessary to perform assigned duties.
Medium - V-3057 - SV-3057r6_rule
RMF Control
Severity
Medium
CCI
Version
NET0465
Vuln IDs
  • V-3057
Rule IDs
  • SV-3057r6_rule
By not restricting authorized accounts to their proper privilege level, access to restricted functions may be allowed before authorized personnel are trained or experienced enough to use those functions. Network disruptions or outages may occur due to mistakes made by inexperienced persons using accounts with greater privileges than necessary.Information Assurance Officer
Checks: C-3504r8_chk

Review the accounts authorized for access to the network device. Determine if the accounts are assigned the lowest privilege level necessary to perform assigned duties. User accounts must be set to a specific privilege level which can be mapped to specific commands or a group of commands. Authorized accounts should have the least privilege level unless deemed necessary for assigned duties. If it is determined that authorized accounts are assigned to greater privileges than necessary, this is a finding.

Fix: F-3082r5_fix

Configure authorized accounts with the least privilege rule. Each user will have access to only the privileges they require to perform their assigned duties.

b
Unauthorized accounts must not be configured for access to the network device.
Medium - V-3058 - SV-3058r5_rule
RMF Control
Severity
Medium
CCI
Version
NET0470
Vuln IDs
  • V-3058
Rule IDs
  • SV-3058r5_rule
A malicious user attempting to gain access to the network device may compromise an account that may be unauthorized for use. The unauthorized account may be a temporary or inactive account that is no longer needed to access the device. Denial of Service, interception of sensitive information, or other destructive actions could potentially take place if an unauthorized account is configured to access the network device.Information Assurance Officer
Checks: C-3505r5_chk

Review the organization's responsibilities list and reconcile the list of authorized accounts with those accounts defined for access to the network device. If an unauthorized account is configured for access to the device, this is a finding.

Fix: F-3083r5_fix

Remove any account configured for access to the network device that is not defined in the organization's responsibilities list.

b
Management connections to a network device must be established using secure protocols with FIPS 140-2 validated cryptographic modules.
Medium - V-3069 - SV-3069r5_rule
RMF Control
Severity
Medium
CCI
Version
NET1638
Vuln IDs
  • V-3069
Rule IDs
  • SV-3069r5_rule
Administration and management connections performed across a network are inherently dangerous because anyone with a packet sniffer and access to the right LAN segment can acquire the network device account and password information. With this intercepted information they could gain access to the router and cause denial of service attacks, intercept sensitive information, or perform other destructive actions.Information Assurance Officer
Checks: C-3532r8_chk

Review the network device configuration to verify only secure protocols using FIPS 140-2 validated cryptographic modules are used for any administrative access. Some of the secure protocols used for administrative and management access are listed below. This list is not all inclusive and represents a sample selection of secure protocols. -SSHv2 -SCP -HTTPS using TLS If management connections are established using protocols without FIPS 140-2 validated cryptographic modules, this is a finding.

Fix: F-3094r5_fix

Configure the network device to use secure protocols with FIPS 140-2 validated cryptographic modules.

a
Network devices must log all attempts to establish a management connection for administrative access.
Low - V-3070 - SV-3070r4_rule
RMF Control
Severity
Low
CCI
Version
NET1640
Vuln IDs
  • V-3070
Rule IDs
  • SV-3070r4_rule
Audit logs are necessary to provide a trail of evidence in case the network is compromised. Without an audit trail that provides a when, where, who and how set of information, repeat offenders could continue attacks against the network indefinitely. With this information, the network administrator can devise ways to block the attack and possibly identify and prosecute the attacker.Information Assurance Officer
Checks: C-3542r6_chk

Review the configuration to verify all attempts to access the device via management connection are logged. If management connection attempts are not logged, this is a finding.

Fix: F-3095r3_fix

Configure the device to log all access attempts to the device to establish a management connection for administrative access.

c
Network devices must not have any default manufacturer passwords.
High - V-3143 - SV-3143r4_rule
RMF Control
Severity
High
CCI
Version
NET0240
Vuln IDs
  • V-3143
Rule IDs
  • SV-3143r4_rule
Network devices not protected with strong password schemes provide the opportunity for anyone to crack the password thus gaining access to the device and causing network outage or denial of service. Many default vendor passwords are well-known; hence, not removing them prior to deploying the network devices into production provides an opportunity for a malicious user to gain unauthorized access to the device.Information Assurance Officer
Checks: C-40236r3_chk

Review the network devices configuration to determine if the vendor default password is active. If any vendor default passwords are used on the device, this is a finding.

Fix: F-35391r3_fix

Remove any vendor default passwords from the network devices configuration.

b
Network devices must be running a current and supported operating system with all IAVMs addressed.
Medium - V-3160 - SV-3160r4_rule
RMF Control
Severity
Medium
CCI
Version
NET0700
Vuln IDs
  • V-3160
Rule IDs
  • SV-3160r4_rule
Network devices not running the latest tested and approved versions of software are vulnerable to network attacks. Running the most current, approved version of system and device software helps the site maintain a stable base of security fixes and patches, as well as enhancements to IP security. Viruses, denial of service attacks, system weaknesses, back doors and other potentially harmful situations could render a system vulnerable, allowing unauthorized access to DoD assets.Information Assurance Officer
Checks: C-3549r4_chk

Have the administrator display the OS version in operation. The OS must be current with related IAVMs addressed. If the device is using an OS that does not meet all IAVMs or currently not supported by the vendor, this is a finding.

Fix: F-3185r4_fix

Update operating system to a supported version that addresses all related IAVMs.

c
The network device must require authentication prior to establishing a management connection for administrative access.
High - V-3175 - SV-3175r5_rule
RMF Control
Severity
High
CCI
Version
NET1636
Vuln IDs
  • V-3175
Rule IDs
  • SV-3175r5_rule
Network devices with no password for administrative access via a management connection provide the opportunity for anyone with network access to the device to make configuration changes enabling them to disrupt network operations resulting in a network outage.Information Assurance Officer
Checks: C-3516r9_chk

Review the network device configuration to verify all management connections for administrative access require authentication. If authentication isn't configured for management access, this is a finding.

Fix: F-3200r3_fix

Configure authentication for all management connections.

c
The network device must use SNMP Version 3 Security Model with FIPS 140-2 validated cryptography for any SNMP agent configured on the device.
High - V-3196 - SV-3196r4_rule
RMF Control
Severity
High
CCI
Version
NET1660
Vuln IDs
  • V-3196
Rule IDs
  • SV-3196r4_rule
SNMP Versions 1 and 2 are not considered secure. Without the strong authentication and privacy that is provided by the SNMP Version 3 User-based Security Model (USM), an unauthorized user can gain access to network management information used to launch an attack against the network.Information Assurance Officer
Checks: C-3820r6_chk

Review the device configuration to verify it is configured to use SNMPv3 with both SHA authentication and privacy using AES encryption. Downgrades: If the site is using Version 1 or Version 2 with all of the appropriate patches and has developed a migration plan to implement the Version 3 Security Model, this finding can be downgraded to a Category II. If the targeted asset is running SNMPv3 and does not support SHA or AES, but the device is configured to use MD5 authentication and DES or 3DES encryption, then the finding can be downgraded to a Category III. If the site is using Version 1 or Version 2 and has installed all of the appropriate patches or upgrades to mitigate any known security vulnerabilities, this finding can be downgraded to a Category II. In addition, if the device does not support SNMPv3, this finding can be downgraded to a Category III provided all of the appropriate patches to mitigate any known security vulnerabilities have been applied and has developed a migration plan that includes the device upgrade to support Version 3 and the implementation of the Version 3 Security Model. If the device is configured to use to anything other than SNMPv3 with at least SHA-1 and AES, this is a finding. Downgrades can be determined based on the criteria above.

Fix: F-3221r5_fix

If SNMP is enabled, configure the network device to use SNMP Version 3 Security Model with FIPS 140-2 validated cryptography (i.e., SHA authentication and AES encryption).

c
The network device must not use the default or well-known SNMP community strings public and private.
High - V-3210 - SV-3210r4_rule
RMF Control
Severity
High
CCI
Version
NET1665
Vuln IDs
  • V-3210
Rule IDs
  • SV-3210r4_rule
Network devices may be distributed by the vendor pre-configured with an SNMP agent using the well-known SNMP community strings public for read only and private for read and write authorization. An attacker can obtain information about a network device using the read community string "public". In addition, an attacker can change a system configuration using the write community string "private".Information Assurance Officer
Checks: C-3822r7_chk

Review the network devices configuration and verify if either of the SNMP community strings "public" or "private" is being used. If default or well-known community strings are used for SNMP, this is a finding.

Fix: F-3235r4_fix

Configure unique SNMP community strings replacing the default community strings.

b
The WLAN must use AES-CCMP to protect data-in-transit.
Medium - V-3515 - SV-3515r2_rule
RMF Control
Severity
Medium
CCI
Version
WIR0125-01
Vuln IDs
  • V-3515
Rule IDs
  • SV-3515r2_rule
AES-CCMP provides all required WLAN security services for data in transit. The other encryption protocol available for IEEE 802.11i compliant robust security networks and WPA2 certified solutions is the Temporal Key Integrity Protocol (TKIP). TKIP relies on the RC4 cipher, which has known vulnerabilities. Some WLANs also rely on Wireless Equivalent Privacy (WEP), which also uses RC4, and is easily cracked in minutes on active WLANs. Use of protocols other than AES-CCMP places DoD WLANs at greater risk of security breaches than other available approaches.Information Assurance OfficerECSC-1, ECWN-1
Checks: C-22364r1_chk

Detailed Policy requirements: Encryption requirements for data in transit: - The WLAN infrastructure (e.g., access point, bridge, or WLAN controller) and WLAN client device must be configured to use the AES-CCMP encryption protocol. Check procedures: - Interview IAO and review WLAN system documentation. - Determine if the WLAN network and client components encryption setting has been configured to use the AES-CCMP encryption protocol and no others. - Mark as a finding if the WLAN is configured to support any encryption protocol other than AES-CCMP, even if AES-CCMP is one of several supported options.

Fix: F-3446r1_fix

Implement AES-CCMP to protect data in transit. Deactivate encryption protocols other than AES-CCMP.

b
In the event the authentication server is unavailable, the network device must have a single local account of last resort defined.
Medium - V-3966 - SV-3966r6_rule
RMF Control
Severity
Medium
CCI
Version
NET0440
Vuln IDs
  • V-3966
Rule IDs
  • SV-3966r6_rule
Authentication for administrative access to the device is required at all times. A single account of last resort can be created on the device's local database for use in an emergency such as when the authentication server is down or connectivity between the device and the authentication server is not operable. The console or local account of last resort logon credentials must be stored in a sealed envelope and kept in a safe.
Checks: C-3502r7_chk

Review the network device configuration to determine if an authentication server is defined for gaining administrative access. If so, there must be only one account of last resort configured locally for an emergency. Verify the username and password for the local account of last resort is contained within a sealed envelope kept in a safe. If an authentication server is used and more than one local account exists, this is a finding.

Fix: F-3899r9_fix

Configure the device to only allow one local account of last resort for emergency access and store the credentials in a secure manner.

b
The network devices must time out access to the console port at 10 minutes or less of inactivity.
Medium - V-3967 - SV-3967r4_rule
RMF Control
Severity
Medium
CCI
Version
NET1624
Vuln IDs
  • V-3967
Rule IDs
  • SV-3967r4_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. In addition quickly terminating an idle session will also free up resources committed by the managed network device. Setting the timeout of the session to 10 minutes or less increases the level of protection afforded critical network components.Information Assurance Officer
Checks: C-3511r5_chk

Review the configuration and verify a session using the console port will time out after 10 minutes or less of inactivity. If console access is not configured to timeout at 10 minutes or less, this is a finding.

Fix: F-3900r4_fix

Configure the timeout for idle console connection to 10 minutes or less.

b
Network devices must only allow SNMP read-only access.
Medium - V-3969 - SV-3969r5_rule
RMF Control
Severity
Medium
CCI
Version
NET0894
Vuln IDs
  • V-3969
Rule IDs
  • SV-3969r5_rule
Enabling write access to the device via SNMP provides a mechanism that can be exploited by an attacker to set configuration variables that can disrupt network operations.Information Assurance Officer
Checks: C-3942r10_chk

Review the network device configuration and verify SNMP community strings are read-only when using SNMPv1, v2c, or basic v3 (no authentication or privacy). Write access may be used if authentication is configured when using SNMPv3. If write-access is used for SNMP versions 1, 2c, or 3-noAuthNoPriv mode and there is no documented approval by the ISSO, this is a finding.

Fix: F-3902r7_fix

Configure the network device to allow for read-only SNMP access when using SNMPv1, v2c, or basic v3 (no authentication or privacy). Write access may be used if authentication is configured when using SNMPv3.

c
The network device must require authentication for console access.
High - V-4582 - SV-4582r5_rule
RMF Control
Severity
High
CCI
Version
NET1623
Vuln IDs
  • V-4582
Rule IDs
  • SV-4582r5_rule
Network devices with no password for administrative access via the console provide the opportunity for anyone with physical access to the device to make configuration changes enabling them to disrupt network operations resulting in a network outage.Information Assurance Officer
Checks: C-3510r6_chk

Review the network device's configuration and verify authentication is required for console access. If authentication is not configured for console access, this is a finding.

Fix: F-4515r4_fix

Configure authentication for console access on the network device.

b
The network devices must only allow management connections for administrative access from hosts residing in the management network.
Medium - V-5611 - SV-5611r5_rule
RMF Control
Severity
Medium
CCI
Version
NET1637
Vuln IDs
  • V-5611
Rule IDs
  • SV-5611r5_rule
Remote administration is inherently dangerous because anyone with a sniffer and access to the right LAN segment could acquire the device account and password information. With this intercepted information they could gain access to the infrastructure and cause denial of service attacks, intercept sensitive information, or perform other destructive actions.
Checks: C-3527r6_chk

Review the configuration and verify management access to the device is allowed only from hosts within the management network. If management access can be gained from outside of the authorized management network, this is a finding.

Fix: F-5522r4_fix

Configure an ACL or filter to restrict management access to the device from only the management network.

b
The network devices must be configured to timeout after 60 seconds or less for incomplete or broken SSH sessions.
Medium - V-5612 - SV-5612r4_rule
RMF Control
Severity
Medium
CCI
Version
NET1645
Vuln IDs
  • V-5612
Rule IDs
  • SV-5612r4_rule
An attacker may attempt to connect to the device using SSH by guessing the authentication method, encryption algorithm, and keys. Limiting the amount of time allowed for authenticating and negotiating the SSH session reduces the window of opportunity for the malicious user attempting to make a connection to the network device.Information Assurance Officer
Checks: C-3534r6_chk

Review the configuration and verify the timeout is set for 60 seconds or less. The SSH service terminates the connection if protocol negotiation (that includes user authentication) is not complete within this timeout period. If the device is not configured to drop broken SSH sessions after 60 seconds, this is a finding.

Fix: F-5523r5_fix

Configure the network devices so it will require a secure shell timeout of 60 seconds or less.

b
The network device must be configured for a maximum number of unsuccessful SSH logon attempts set at 3 before resetting the interface.
Medium - V-5613 - SV-5613r4_rule
RMF Control
Severity
Medium
CCI
Version
NET1646
Vuln IDs
  • V-5613
Rule IDs
  • SV-5613r4_rule
An attacker may attempt to connect to the device using SSH by guessing the authentication method and authentication key or shared secret. Setting the authentication retry to 3 or less strengthens against a Brute Force attack.Information Assurance Officer
Checks: C-3538r8_chk

Review the configuration and verify the number of unsuccessful SSH logon attempts is set at 3. If the device is not configured to reset unsuccessful SSH logon attempts at 3, this is a finding.

Fix: F-5524r9_fix

Configure the network device to require a maximum number of unsuccessful SSH logon attempts at 3.

a
The auxiliary port must be disabled unless it is connected to a secured modem providing encryption and authentication.
Low - V-7011 - SV-7365r4_rule
RMF Control
Severity
Low
CCI
Version
NET1629
Vuln IDs
  • V-7011
Rule IDs
  • SV-7365r4_rule
The use of POTS lines to modems connecting to network devices provides clear text of authentication traffic over commercial circuits that could be captured and used to compromise the network. Additional war dial attacks on the device could degrade the device and the production network. Secured modem devices must be able to authenticate users and must negotiate a key exchange before full encryption takes place. The modem will provide full encryption capability (Triple DES) or stronger. The technician who manages these devices will be authenticated using a key fob and granted access to the appropriate maintenance port, thus the technician will gain access to the managed device (router, switch, etc.). The token provides a method of strong (two-factor) user authentication. The token works in conjunction with a server to generate one-time user passwords that will change values at second intervals. The user must know a personal identification number (PIN) and possess the token to be allowed access to the device.Information Assurance Officer
Checks: C-3513r5_chk

Review the configuration and verify the auxiliary port is disabled unless a secured modem providing encryption and authentication is connected. If the auxiliary port is enabled without the use of a secured modem, this is a finding.

Fix: F-6614r3_fix

Disable the auxiliary port. If used for out-of-band administrative access, the port must be connected to a secured modem providing encryption and authentication.

b
Network devices must authenticate all NTP messages received from NTP servers and peers.
Medium - V-14671 - SV-15327r6_rule
RMF Control
Severity
Medium
CCI
Version
NET0813
Vuln IDs
  • V-14671
Rule IDs
  • SV-15327r6_rule
Since NTP is used to ensure accurate log file time stamp information, NTP could pose a security risk if a malicious user were able to falsify NTP information. To launch an attack on the NTP infrastructure, a hacker could inject time that would be accepted by NTP clients by spoofing the IP address of a valid NTP server. To mitigate this risk, the time messages must be authenticated by the client before accepting them as a time source. Two NTP-enabled devices can communicate in either client-server mode or peer-to-peer mode (aka "symmetric mode"). The peering mode is configured manually on the device and indicated in the outgoing NTP packets. The fundamental difference is the synchronization behavior: an NTP server can synchronize to a peer with better stratum, whereas it will never synchronize to its client regardless of the client's stratum. From a protocol perspective, NTP clients are no different from the NTP servers. The NTP client can synchronize to multiple NTP servers, select the best server and synchronize with it, or synchronize to the averaged value returned by the servers. A hierarchical model can be used to improve scalability. With this implementation, an NTP client can also become an NTP server providing time to downstream clients at a higher stratum level and of decreasing accuracy than that of its upstream server. To increase availability, NTP peering can be used between NTP servers. In the event the device loses connectivity to its upstream NTP server, it will be able to choose time from one of its peers. The NTP authentication model is opposite of the typical client-server authentication model. NTP authentication enables an NTP client or peer to authenticate time received from their servers and peers. It is not used to authenticate NTP clients because NTP servers do not care about the authenticity of their clients, as they never accept any time from them.
Checks: C-12793r9_chk

Review the network element configuration and verify that it is authenticating NTP messages received from the NTP server or peer using a FIPS-approved message authentication code algorithm. FIPS-approved algorithms for authentication are the cipher-based message authentication code (CMAC) and the keyed-hash message authentication code (HMAC). AES and 3DES are NIST-approved CMAC algorithms. The following are NIST-approved HMAC algorithms: SHA-1, SHA-224, SHA-256, SHA-384, SHA-512, SHA-512/224, and SHA-512/256. Downgrade: If the network device is not capable of authenticating the NTP server or peer using a FIPS-approved message authentication code algorithm, then MD5 can be utilized for NTP message authentication and the finding can be downgraded to a CAT III. If the network element is not configured to authenticate received NTP messages using a FIPS-approved message authentication code algorithm, this is a finding. A downgrade can be determined based on the criteria above.

Fix: F-14132r4_fix

Configure the device to authenticate all received NTP messages using a FIPS-approved message authentication code algorithm.

b
The network device must not allow SSH Version 1 to be used for administrative access.
Medium - V-14717 - SV-15459r4_rule
RMF Control
Severity
Medium
CCI
Version
NET1647
Vuln IDs
  • V-14717
Rule IDs
  • SV-15459r4_rule
SSH Version 1 is a protocol that has never been defined in a standard. Since SSH-1 has inherent design flaws which make it vulnerable to attacks, e.g., man-in-the-middle attacks, it is now generally considered obsolete and should be avoided by explicitly disabling fallback to SSH-1.Information Assurance Officer
Checks: C-12924r8_chk

Review the configuration and verify SSH Version 1 is not being used for administrative access. If the device is using an SSHv1 session, this is a finding.

Fix: F-14184r5_fix

Configure the network device to use SSH version 2.

a
WLAN SSIDs must be changed from the manufacturer’s default to a pseudo random word that does not identify the unit, base, organization, etc.
Low - V-14846 - SV-15614r1_rule
RMF Control
Severity
Low
CCI
Version
WIR0105
Vuln IDs
  • V-14846
Rule IDs
  • SV-15614r1_rule
An SSID identifying the unit, site or purpose of the WLAN or is set to the manufacturer default may cause an OPSEC vulnerability.System Administrator
Checks: C-13276r1_chk

Review device configuration. 1. Obtain the SSID using a wireless scanner or the AP or WLAN controller management software. 2. Verify the name is not meaningful (e.g., site name, product name, room number, etc.) or set to the manufacturer's default value. Mark as a finding if the SSID does not meet the requirement listed above.

Fix: F-34142r1_fix

Change the SSID to a pseudo random word that does not identify the unit, base, or organization.

b
Wireless access points and bridges must be placed in dedicated subnets outside the enclave’s perimeter.
Medium - V-14886 - SV-15654r2_rule
RMF Control
Severity
Medium
CCI
Version
WIR0135
Vuln IDs
  • V-14886
Rule IDs
  • SV-15654r2_rule
If an adversary is able to compromise an access point or controller that is directly connected to an enclave network, then the adversary can easily surveil and attack other devices from that beachhead. A defense-in-depth approach requires an additional layer of protection exist between the WLAN and the enclave network. This is particularly important for wireless networks, which may be vulnerable to attack from outside physical perimeter of the facility or base given the inherent nature of radio communications to penetrate walls, fences, and other physical boundaries.System Administrator
Checks: C-13412r3_chk

Detailed policy requirements: Wireless access points and bridges must not be directly connected to the enclave network. A network device must separate wireless access from other elements of the enclave network. Sites must also comply with the Network Infrastructure STIG configuration requirements for DMZ, VLAN, and VPN configurations, as applicable. Examples of acceptable architectures include placing access points or controllers in a screened subnet (e.g. DMZ separating intranet and wireless network) or dedicated virtual LAN (VLAN) with ACLs. Check Procedures: Review network architecture with the network administrator. 1. Verify compliance by inspecting the site network topology diagrams. 2. Since many network diagrams are not kept up-to-date, walk through the connections with the network administrator using network management tools or diagnostic commands to verify the diagrams are current. If the site’s wireless infrastructure, such as access points and bridges, is not isolated from the enclave network, this is a finding.

Fix: F-3448r1_fix

Remove wireless network devices with direct connections to an enclave network. If feasible, reconfigure network connections to isolate the WLAN infrastructure from the enclave network, separating them with a firewall or equivalent protection.

b
Network devices must use two or more authentication servers for the purpose of granting administrative access.
Medium - V-15432 - SV-16259r4_rule
RMF Control
Severity
Medium
CCI
Version
NET0433
Vuln IDs
  • V-15432
Rule IDs
  • SV-16259r4_rule
The use of Authentication, Authorization, and Accounting (AAA) affords the best methods for controlling user access, authorization levels, and activity logging. By enabling AAA on the routers in conjunction with an authentication server such as TACACS+ or RADIUS, the administrators can easily add or remove user accounts, add or remove command authorizations, and maintain a log of user activity. The use of an authentication server provides the capability to assign router administrators to tiered groups that contain their privilege level that is used for authorization of specific commands. For example, user mode would be authorized for all authenticated administrators while configuration or edit mode should only be granted to those administrators that are permitted to implement router configuration changes.Information Assurance Officer
Checks: C-14439r6_chk

Verify an authentication server is required to access the device and that there are two or more authentication servers defined. If the device is not configured for two separate authentication servers, this is a finding.

Fix: F-15096r3_fix

Configure the device to use two separate authentication servers.

c
The emergency administration account must be set to an appropriate authorization level to perform necessary administrative functions when the authentication server is not online.
High - V-15434 - SV-16261r5_rule
RMF Control
Severity
High
CCI
Version
NET0441
Vuln IDs
  • V-15434
Rule IDs
  • SV-16261r5_rule
The emergency administration account is to be configured as a local account on the network devices. It is to be used only when the authentication server is offline or not reachable via the network. The emergency account must be set to an appropriate authorization level to perform necessary administrative functions during this time.Information Assurance Officer
Checks: C-14441r6_chk

Review the emergency administration account configured on the network devices and verify that it has been assigned to a privilege level that will enable the administrator to perform necessary administrative functions when the authentication server is not online. If the emergency administration account is configured for more access than needed to troubleshoot issues, this is a finding.

Fix: F-15098r7_fix

Assign a privilege level to the emergency administration account to allow the administrator to perform necessary administrative functions when the authentication server is not online.

b
The network devices OOBM interface must be configured with an OOBM network address.
Medium - V-17821 - SV-19075r4_rule
RMF Control
Severity
Medium
CCI
Version
NET0991
Vuln IDs
  • V-17821
Rule IDs
  • SV-19075r4_rule
The OOBM access switch will connect to the management interface of the managed network device. The management interface of the managed network device will be directly connected to the OOBM network. An OOBM interface does not forward transit traffic; thereby, providing complete separation of production and management traffic. Since all management traffic is immediately forwarded into the management network, it is not exposed to possible tampering. The separation also ensures that congestion or failures in the managed network do not affect the management of the device. If the OOBM interface does not have an IP address from the managed network address space, it will not have reachability from the NOC using scalable and normal control plane and forwarding mechanisms.System AdministratorInformation Assurance Officer
Checks: C-19238r5_chk

Review the device configuration to determine if the OOB management interface is assigned an appropriate IP address from the authorized OOB management network. If an IP address assigned to the interface is not from an authorized OOB management network, this is a finding.

Fix: F-17736r2_fix

Configure the OOB management interface with an IP address from the address space belonging to the OOBM network.

b
The network devices management interface must be configured with both an ingress and egress ACL.
Medium - V-17822 - SV-19076r4_rule
RMF Control
Severity
Medium
CCI
Version
NET0992
Vuln IDs
  • V-17822
Rule IDs
  • SV-19076r4_rule
The OOBM access switch will connect to the management interface of the managed network device. The management interface can be a true OOBM interface or a standard interface functioning as the management interface. In either case, the management interface of the managed network device will be directly connected to the OOBM network. An OOBM interface does not forward transit traffic; thereby, providing complete separation of production and management traffic. Since all management traffic is immediately forwarded into the management network, it is not exposed to possible tampering. The separation also ensures that congestion or failures in the managed network do not affect the management of the device. If the device does not have an OOBM port, the interface functioning as the management interface must be configured so that management traffic does not leak into the managed network and that production traffic does not leak into the management network.System AdministratorInformation Assurance Officer
Checks: C-19239r5_chk

Step 1: Verify the managed interface has an inbound and outbound ACL or filter. Step 2: Verify the ingress ACL blocks all transit traffic--that is, any traffic not destined to the router itself. In addition, traffic accessing the managed elements should be originated at the NOC. Step 3: Verify the egress ACL blocks any traffic not originated by the managed element. If management interface does not have an ingress and egress filter configured and applied, this is a finding.

Fix: F-17737r2_fix

If the management interface is a routed interface, it must be configured with both an ingress and egress ACL. The ingress ACL should block any transit traffic, while the egress ACL should block any traffic that was not originated by the managed network device.

a
Network devices must use at least two NTP servers to synchronize time.
Low - V-23747 - SV-28651r4_rule
RMF Control
Severity
Low
CCI
Version
NET0812
Vuln IDs
  • V-23747
Rule IDs
  • SV-28651r4_rule
Without synchronized time, accurately correlating information between devices becomes difficult, if not impossible. If logs cannot be successfully compared between each of the routers, switches, and firewalls, it will be very difficult to determine the exact events that resulted in a network breach incident. NTP provides an efficient and scalable method for network devices to synchronize to an accurate time source.System AdministratorInformation Assurance Officer
Checks: C-3581r5_chk

Review the configuration and verify two NTP servers have been defined. If the device is not configured to use two separate NTP servers, this is a finding.

Fix: F-3044r2_fix

Configure the device to use two separate NTP servers.

b
A service or feature that calls home to the vendor must be disabled.
Medium - V-28784 - SV-36774r5_rule
RMF Control
Severity
Medium
CCI
Version
NET0405
Vuln IDs
  • V-28784
Rule IDs
  • SV-36774r5_rule
Call home services or features will routinely send data such as configuration and diagnostic information to the vendor for routine or emergency analysis and troubleshooting. The risk that transmission of sensitive data sent to unauthorized persons could result in data loss or downtime due to an attack.Information Assurance OfficerNetwork Security Officer
Checks: C-35853r4_chk

Review the device configuration to determine if the call home service or feature is disabled on the device. If the call home service is enabled on the device, this is a finding. Note: This feature can be enabled if the communication is only to a server residing in the local area network or enclave.

Fix: F-31103r2_fix

Configure the network device to disable the call home service or feature. Note: This feature can be enabled if the communication is only to a server residing in the local area network or enclave.