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Microsoft Word 2010 Security Technical Implementation Guide

  • Version/Release: V1R12
  • Published: 2024-06-14
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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 e-mail to the following address: disa.stig_spt@mail.mil.
b
Disabling of user name and password syntax from being used in URLs must be enforced.
SC-18 - Medium - CCI-001170 - V-242277 - SV-242277r961092_rule
RMF Control
SC-18
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-001170
Version
DTOO104 - Word
Vuln IDs
  • V-242277
  • V-17173
Rule IDs
  • SV-242277r961092_rule
  • SV-33407
The Uniform Resource Locator (URL) standard allows user authentication to be included in URL strings in the form http://username:password@example.com. A malicious user might use this URL syntax to create a hyperlink that appears to open a legitimate Web site but actually opens a deceptive (spoofed) Web site. For example, the URL http://www.wingtiptoys.com@example.com appears to open http://www.wingtiptoys.com but actually opens http://example.com. To protect users from such attacks, Internet Explorer usually blocks any URLs using this syntax. This functionality can be controlled separately for instances of Internet Explorer spawned by Office applications (for example, if a user clicks a link in an Office document or selects a menu option that loads a Web page). If user names and passwords in URLs are allowed, users could be diverted to dangerous Web pages, which could pose a security risk.
Checks: C-45552r711121_chk

The policy value for Computer Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Office 2010 (Machine) -> Security Settings -> IE Security "Disable user name and password" must be "Enabled" and a check in the "winword.exe" check box must be present. Procedure: Use the Windows Registry Editor to navigate to the following key: HKLM\Software\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Main\FeatureControl\FEATURE_HTTP_USERNAME_PASSWORD_DISABLE Criteria: If the value winword.exe is REG_DWORD = 1, this is not a finding.

Fix: F-45510r711122_fix

Set the policy value for Computer Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Office 2010 (Machine) -> Security Settings -> IE Security "Disable user name and password" to "Enabled" and place a check in the "winword.exe" check box.

b
Blocking as default file block opening behavior must be enforced.
SC-18 - Medium - CCI-001662 - V-242278 - SV-242278r961086_rule
RMF Control
SC-18
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-001662
Version
DTOO110 - Word
Vuln IDs
  • V-242278
  • V-26612
Rule IDs
  • SV-242278r961086_rule
  • SV-33873
Users can open, view, or edit a large number of file types in Word 2010. Some file types are safer than others, as some could allow malicious code to become active on user computers or the network. For this reason, disabling or not configuring this setting could allow malicious code to become active on user computers or the network.
Checks: C-45553r711124_chk

The policy value for User Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Word 2010 -> Word Options -> Security -> Trust Center -> File Block Settings "Set default file block behavior" must be "Enabled: Blocked files are not opened". Procedure: Use the Windows Registry Editor to navigate to the following key: HKCU\Software\Policies\Microsoft\Office\14.0\word\security\fileblock Criteria: If the value OpenInProtectedView is REG_DWORD = 0, this is not a finding.

Fix: F-45511r711125_fix

Set the policy value for User Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Word 2010 -> Word Options -> Security -> Trust Center -> File Block Settings "Set default file block behavior" to "Enabled: Blocked files are not opened".

b
Enabling IE Bind to Object functionality must be present.
SC-18 - Medium - CCI-001695 - V-242279 - SV-242279r960921_rule
RMF Control
SC-18
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-001695
Version
DTOO111 - Word
Vuln IDs
  • V-242279
  • V-17174
Rule IDs
  • SV-242279r960921_rule
  • SV-33391
Internet Explorer performs a number of safety checks before initializing an ActiveX control. It will not initialize a control if the kill bit for the control is set in the registry, or if the security settings for the zone in which the control is located do not allow it to be initialized. This functionality can be controlled separately for instances of Internet Explorer spawned by Office applications (for example, if a user clicks a link in an Office document or selects a menu option that loads a Web page). A security risk could occur if potentially dangerous controls are allowed to load.
Checks: C-45554r711127_chk

The policy value for Computer Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Office 2010 (Machine) -> Security Settings -> IE Security "Bind to Object" must be "Enabled" and a check in the "winword.exe" check box must be present. Procedure: Use the Windows Registry Editor to navigate to the following key: HKLM\Software\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Main\FeatureControl\FEATURE_SAFE_BINDTOOBJECT Criteria: If the value winword.exe is REG_DWORD = 1, this is not a finding.

Fix: F-45512r711128_fix

Set the policy value for Computer Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Office 2010 (Machine) -> Security Settings -> IE Security "Bind to Object" to "Enabled" and place a check in the "winword.exe" check box.

b
Saved from URL mark to assure Internet zone processing must be enforced.
SC-18 - Medium - CCI-001170 - V-242280 - SV-242280r961092_rule
RMF Control
SC-18
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-001170
Version
DTOO117 - Word
Vuln IDs
  • V-242280
  • V-17175
Rule IDs
  • SV-242280r961092_rule
  • SV-33418
Typically, when Internet Explorer loads a Web page from a Universal Naming Convention (UNC) share that contains a Mark of the Web (MOTW) comment, indicating the page was saved from a site on the Internet, Internet Explorer runs the page in the Internet security zone instead of the less restrictive Local Intranet security zone. This functionality can be controlled separately for instances of Internet Explorer spawned by Office applications (for example, if a user clicks a link in an Office document or selects a menu option that loads a Web page). If Internet Explorer does not evaluate the page for a MOTW, potentially dangerous code could be allowed to run.
Checks: C-45555r711130_chk

The policy value for Computer Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Office 2010 (Machine) -> Security Settings -> IE Security "Saved from URL" must be "Enabled" and a check in the "winword.exe" check box must be present. Procedure: Use the Windows Registry Editor to navigate to the following key: HKLM\Software\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Main\FeatureControl\FEATURE_UNC_SAVEDFILECHECK Criteria: If the value winword.exe is REG_DWORD = 1, this is not a finding.

Fix: F-45513r711131_fix

Set the policy value for Computer Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Office 2010 (Machine) -> Security Settings -> IE Security "Saved from URL" to "Enabled" and place a check in the "winword.exe" check box.

b
Configuration for file validation must be enforced.
SC-18 - Medium - CCI-001695 - V-242281 - SV-242281r960921_rule
RMF Control
SC-18
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-001695
Version
DTOO119 - Word
Vuln IDs
  • V-242281
  • V-26592
Rule IDs
  • SV-242281r960921_rule
  • SV-33875
Office Binary Documents (97-2003) are checked to see if they conform against the file format schema before they are opened.
Checks: C-45556r711133_chk

The policy value for User Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Word 2010 -> Word Options -> Security "Turn off file validation" must be set to "Disabled". Procedure: Use the Windows Registry Editor to navigate to the following key: HKCU\Software\Policies\Microsoft\Office\14.0\word\security\filevalidation Criteria: If the value EnableOnLoad is REG_DWORD = 1, this is not a finding.

Fix: F-45514r711134_fix

Set the policy value for User Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Word 2010 -> Word Options -> Security "Turn off file validation" to "Disabled".

b
Files from the Internet zone must be opened in Protected View.
SC-18 - Medium - CCI-001662 - V-242282 - SV-242282r961086_rule
RMF Control
SC-18
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-001662
Version
DTOO121 - Word
Vuln IDs
  • V-242282
  • V-26614
Rule IDs
  • SV-242282r961086_rule
  • SV-33863
This policy setting allows for determining if files downloaded from the Internet zone open in Protected View. If enabling this policy setting, files downloaded from the Internet zone do not open in Protected View. If disabling or not configuring this policy setting, files downloaded from the Internet zone open in Protected View.
Checks: C-45557r711136_chk

The policy value for User Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Word 2010 -> Word Options -> Security -> Trust Center -> Protected View "Do not open files from the Internet zone in Protected View" must be set to "Disabled". Procedure: Use the Windows Registry Editor to navigate to the following key: HKCU\Software\Policies\Microsoft\Office\14.0\word\security\protectedview Criteria: If the value DisableInternetFilesInPV is REG_DWORD = 0, this is not a finding.

Fix: F-45515r711137_fix

Set the policy value for User Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Word 2010 -> Word Options -> Security -> Trust Center -> Protected View "Do not open files from the Internet zone in Protected View" to "Disabled".

b
Navigation to URL's embedded in Office products must be blocked.
SC-18 - Medium - CCI-001170 - V-242283 - SV-242283r961092_rule
RMF Control
SC-18
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-001170
Version
DTOO123 - Word
Vuln IDs
  • V-242283
  • V-17183
Rule IDs
  • SV-242283r961092_rule
  • SV-33415
To protect users from attacks, Internet Explorer usually does not attempt to load malformed URLs. This functionality can be controlled separately for instances of Internet Explorer spawned by Office applications (for example, if a user clicks a link in an Office document or selects a menu option that loads a Web page). If Internet Explorer attempts to load a malformed URL, a security risk could occur in some cases.
Checks: C-45558r711139_chk

The policy value for Computer Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Office 2010 (Machine) -> Security Settings -> IE Security "Navigate URL" must be "Enabled" and a check in the "winword.exe" check box must be present. Procedure: Use the Windows Registry Editor to navigate to the following key: HKLM\Software\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Main\FeatureControl\FEATURE_VALIDATE_NAVIGATE_URL Criteria: If the value winword.exe is REG_DWORD = 1, this is not a finding.

Fix: F-45516r711140_fix

Set the policy value for Computer Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Office 2010 (Machine) -> Security Settings -> IE Security "Navigate URL" to "Enabled" and place a check in the "winword.exe" check box.

b
Scripted Window Security must be enforced.
SC-18 - Medium - CCI-001695 - V-242284 - SV-242284r960921_rule
RMF Control
SC-18
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-001695
Version
DTOO124 - Word
Vuln IDs
  • V-242284
  • V-26588
Rule IDs
  • SV-242284r960921_rule
  • SV-33805
Malicious websites often try to confuse or trick users into giving a site permission to perform an action allowing the site to take control of the users' computers in some manner. Disabling or not configuring this setting allows unknown websites to: -Create browser windows appearing to be from the local operating system. -Draw active windows displaying outside of the viewable areas of the screen capturing keyboard input. -Overlay parent windows with their own browser windows to hide important system information, choices or prompts.
Checks: C-45559r711142_chk

The policy value for Computer Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Office 2010 (Machine) -> Security Settings -> IE Security "Scripted Window Security Restrictions" must be set to "Enabled" and 'winword.exe' is checked. Procedure: Use the Windows Registry Editor to navigate to the following key: HKLM\Software\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Main\FeatureControl\FEATURE_WINDOW_RESTRICTIONS Criteria: If the value winword.exe is REG_DWORD = 1, this is not a finding.

Fix: F-45517r711143_fix

Set the policy value for Computer Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Office 2010 (Machine) -> Security Settings -> IE Security "Scripted Window Security Restrictions" to "Enabled" and "winword.exe" is checked.

b
Add-on Management functionality must be allowed.
SC-18 - Medium - CCI-001662 - V-242285 - SV-242285r961086_rule
RMF Control
SC-18
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-001662
Version
DTOO126 - Word
Vuln IDs
  • V-242285
  • V-26584
Rule IDs
  • SV-242285r961086_rule
  • SV-33783
Internet Explorer add-ons are pieces of code, run in Internet Explorer, to provide additional functionality. Rogue add-ons may contain viruses or other malicious code. Disabling or not configuring this setting could allow malicious code or users to become active on user computers or the network. For example, a malicious user can monitor and then use keystrokes users type into Internet Explorer. Even legitimate add-ons may demand resources, compromising the performance of Internet Explorer, and the operating systems for user computers.
Checks: C-45560r711145_chk

The policy value for Computer Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Office 2010 (Machine) -> Security Settings -> IE Security "Add-on Management " must be set to "Enabled" and "winword.exe" is checked. Procedure: Use the Windows Registry Editor to navigate to the following key: HKLM\Software\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Main\FeatureControl\FEATURE_ADDON_MANAGEMENT Criteria: If the value winword.exe is REG_DWORD = 1, this is not a finding.

Fix: F-45518r711146_fix

Set the policy value for Computer Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Office 2010 (Machine) -> Security Settings -> IE Security "Add-on Management " to "Enabled" and "winword.exe" is checked.

b
Application add-ins must be signed by Trusted Publisher.
CM-5 - Medium - CCI-001749 - V-242286 - SV-242286r960954_rule
RMF Control
CM-5
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-001749
Version
DTOO127 - Word
Vuln IDs
  • V-242286
  • V-26589
Rule IDs
  • SV-242286r960954_rule
  • SV-33853
Office 2010 applications do not check the digital signature on application add-ins before opening them. Disabling or not configuring this setting may allow an application to load a dangerous add-in. As a result, malicious code could become active on user computers or the network.
Checks: C-45561r711148_chk

The policy value for User Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Word 2010 -> Word Options -> Security -> Trust Center "Require that application add-ins are signed by Trusted Publisher" must be set to "Enabled". Procedure: Use the Windows Registry Editor to navigate to the following key: HKCU\Software\Policies\Microsoft\Office\14.0\word\security Criteria: If the value RequireAddinSig is REG_DWORD = 1, this is not a finding.

Fix: F-45519r711149_fix

Set the policy value for User Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Word 2010 -> Word Options -> Security -> Trust Center "Require that application add-ins are signed by Trusted Publisher" to "Enabled".

b
Data Execution Prevention must be enforced.
SC-18 - Medium - CCI-001170 - V-242287 - SV-242287r961092_rule
RMF Control
SC-18
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-001170
Version
DTOO128 - Word
Vuln IDs
  • V-242287
  • V-26590
Rule IDs
  • SV-242287r961092_rule
  • SV-33859
Data Execution Prevention (DEP) is a set of hardware and software technologies performing additional checks on memory to help prevent malicious code from running on a system. The primary benefit of DEP is to help prevent code execution from data pages. Enabling this setting, turns off Data Execution Prevention. As a result, malicious code takes advantage of code injection or buffer overflow vulnerabilities possibly exploiting the computer.
Checks: C-45562r711151_chk

The policy value for User Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Word 2010 -> Word Options -> Security -> Trust Center "Turn off Data Execution Prevention" must be set to "Disabled". Procedure: Use the Windows Registry Editor to navigate to the following key: HKCU\Software\Policies\Microsoft\Office\14.0\word\security Criteria: If the value EnableDEP is REG_DWORD = 1, this is not a finding.

Fix: F-45520r711152_fix

Set the policy value for User Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Word 2010 -> Word Options -> Security -> Trust Center "Turn off Data Execution Prevention" to "Disabled".

b
Links that invoke instances of IE from within an Office product must be blocked.
SC-18 - Medium - CCI-001662 - V-242288 - SV-242288r961086_rule
RMF Control
SC-18
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-001662
Version
DTOO129 - Word
Vuln IDs
  • V-242288
  • V-17184
Rule IDs
  • SV-242288r961086_rule
  • SV-33397
The Pop-up Blocker feature in Internet Explorer can be used to block most unwanted pop-up and pop-under windows from appearing. This functionality can be controlled separately for instances of Internet Explorer spawned by Office applications (for example, if a user clicks a link in an Office document or selects a menu option that loads a Web page). If the Pop-up Blocker is disabled, disruptive and potentially dangerous pop-up windows could load and present a security risk.
Checks: C-45563r711154_chk

The policy value for Computer Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Office 2010 (Machine) -> Security Settings -> IE Security "Block popups" must be "Enabled" and "winword.exe" is checked. Procedure: Use the Windows Registry Editor to navigate to the following key: HKLM\Software\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Main\FeatureControl\FEATURE_WEBOC_POPUPMANAGEMENT Criteria: If the value winword.exe is REG_DWORD = 1, this is not a finding.

Fix: F-45521r711155_fix

Set the policy value for Computer Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Office 2010 (Machine) -> Security Settings -> IE Security "Block popups" to "Enabled" and select "winword.exe".

b
Trust Bar Notifications for unsigned application add-ins must be blocked.
CM-5 - Medium - CCI-001749 - V-242289 - SV-242289r960954_rule
RMF Control
CM-5
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-001749
Version
DTOO131 - Word
Vuln IDs
  • V-242289
  • V-17187
Rule IDs
  • SV-242289r960954_rule
  • SV-33612
If an application is configured to require all add-ins be signed by a trusted publisher, any unsigned add-ins the application loads will be disabled and the application will display the Trust Bar at the top of the active window. The Trust Bar contains a message informing users about the unsigned add-in.
Checks: C-45564r711157_chk

The policy value for User Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Word 2010 -> Word Options -> Security -> Trust Center "Disable Trust Bar Notification for unsigned application add-ins and block them" must be "Enabled". Procedure: Use the Windows Registry Editor to navigate to the following key: HKCU\Software\Policies\Microsoft\Office\14.0\word\security Criteria: If the value NoTBPromptUnsignedAddin is REG_DWORD = 1, this is not a finding.

Fix: F-45522r711158_fix

Set the policy value for User Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Word 2010 -> Word Options -> Security -> Trust Center "Disable Trust Bar Notification for unsigned application add-ins and block them" to "Enabled".

b
File Downloads must be configured for proper restrictions.
SC-18 - Medium - CCI-001169 - V-242290 - SV-242290r961089_rule
RMF Control
SC-18
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-001169
Version
DTOO132 - Word
Vuln IDs
  • V-242290
  • V-26587
Rule IDs
  • SV-242290r961089_rule
  • SV-33801
Disabling this setting allows websites to present file download prompts via code without the user specifically initiating the download. User preferences may also allow the download to occur without prompting or interacting with the user. Even if Internet Explorer prompts the user to accept the download, some websites abuse this functionality. Malicious websites may continually prompt users to download a file or present confusing dialog boxes to trick users into downloading or running a file. If the download occurs and it contains malicious code, the code could become active on user computers or the network.
Checks: C-45565r711160_chk

The policy value for Computer Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Office 2010 (Machine) -> Security Settings -> IE Security "Restrict File Download" must be set to "Enabled" and 'winword.exe' is checked. Procedure: Use the Windows Registry Editor to navigate to the following key: HKLM\Software\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Main\FeatureControl\FEATURE_RESTRICT_FILEDOWNLOAD Criteria: If the value winword.exe is REG_DWORD = 1, this is not a finding.

Fix: F-45523r711161_fix

Set the policy value for Computer Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Office 2010 (Machine) -> Security Settings -> IE Security "Restrict File Download" to "Enabled" and "winword.exe" is checked.

b
All automatic loading from Trusted Locations must be disabled.
SC-18 - Medium - CCI-001170 - V-242291 - SV-242291r961092_rule
RMF Control
SC-18
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-001170
Version
DTOO133 - Word
Vuln IDs
  • V-242291
  • V-17471
Rule IDs
  • SV-242291r961092_rule
  • SV-33624
Trusted locations specified in the Trust Center are used to define file locations assumed to be safe. Content, code, and add-ins are allowed to load from trusted locations with a minimal amount of security, without prompting the users for permission. If a dangerous file is opened from a trusted location, it will not be subject to standard security measures and could harm users' computers or data. By default, files located in trusted locations (those specified in the Trust Center) are assumed to be safe.
Checks: C-45566r711163_chk

The policy value for User Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Word 2010 -> Word Options -> Security -> Trust Center -> Trusted Locations "Disable all trusted locations" must be set to "Enabled". Procedure: Use the Windows Registry Editor to navigate to the following key: HKCU\Software\Policies\Microsoft\Office\14.0\word\security\trusted locations Criteria: If the value AllLocationsDisabled is REG_DWORD = 1, this is not a finding.

Fix: F-45524r711164_fix

Set the policy value for User Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Word 2010 -> Word Options -> Security -> Trust Center -> Trusted Locations "Disable all trusted locations" to "Enabled".

b
Disallowance of Trusted Locations on the network must be enforced.
SC-18 - Medium - CCI-001170 - V-242292 - SV-242292r961092_rule
RMF Control
SC-18
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-001170
Version
DTOO134 - Word
Vuln IDs
  • V-242292
  • V-17520
Rule IDs
  • SV-242292r961092_rule
  • SV-33621
Files located in Trusted Locations and specified in the Trust Center are assumed to be safe. Content, code, and add-ins are allowed to load from Trusted Locations with minimal security and without prompting the user for permission. By default, users can specify Trusted Locations on network shares, or in other remote locations not under their direct control, by selecting the "Allow Trusted Locations on my network" (not recommended) check box in the Trusted Locations section of the Trust Center. If a dangerous file is opened from a trusted location, it will not be subject to typical security measures and could affect users' computers or data.
Checks: C-45567r711166_chk

The policy value for User Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Word 2010 -> Word Options -> Security -> Trust Center -> Trusted Locations "Allow Trusted Locations on the network" must be set to "Disabled". Procedure: Use the Windows Registry Editor to navigate to the following key: HKCU\Software\Policies\Microsoft\Office\14.0\word\security\trusted locations Criteria: If the value AllowNetworkLocations is REG_DWORD = 0, this is not a finding.

Fix: F-45525r711167_fix

Set the policy value for User Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Word 2010 -> Word Options -> Security -> Trust Center -> Trusted Locations "Allow Trusted Locations on the network" to "Disabled".

b
Save files default format must be configured.
CM-7 - Medium - CCI-000381 - V-242293 - SV-242293r960963_rule
RMF Control
CM-7
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-000381
Version
DTOO139 - Word
Vuln IDs
  • V-242293
  • V-17521
Rule IDs
  • SV-242293r960963_rule
  • SV-33610
When users create new document files, Word 2010 saves them in the new Word 2010 .docx format. Ensure this setting is enabled to specify that all new files are created in Word 2010. If a new document is created in an earlier format, some users may not be able to open or use the file, or they may choose a format this is less secure than the Word 2010 format. Users can still select a specific format when they save files, but they cannot change default of this setting from the Word Options dialog box. This enforced user behavior ensures any change to the file format requires additional deliberate user interaction.
Checks: C-45568r711169_chk

The policy value for User Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Word 2010 -> Word Options -> Save "default file format" must be set to "Enabled Word Document (.docx)". Procedure: Use the Windows Registry Editor to navigate to the following key: HKCU\Software\Policies\Microsoft\Office\14.0\word\options Criteria: If the value DefaultFormat is REG_SZ = (blank), this is not a finding.

Fix: F-45526r711170_fix

Set the policy value for User Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Word 2010 -> Word Options -> Save "default file format" to "Enabled Word Document (.docx)".

b
Force encrypted macros to be scanned in open XML documents must be determined and configured.
SC-18 - Medium - CCI-001170 - V-242294 - SV-242294r961092_rule
RMF Control
SC-18
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-001170
Version
DTOO142 - Word
Vuln IDs
  • V-242294
  • V-17473
Rule IDs
  • SV-242294r961092_rule
  • SV-33613
When an Office Open XML document (Word, Excel, and PowerPoint) is rights-managed, or password-protected, any macros embedded in the document are encrypted along with the rest of the contents. By default, these encrypted macros will be disabled unless they are scanned by antivirus software immediately before being loaded. If this default configuration is modified, Office products will not require encrypted macros to be scanned before loading. They will be handled as specified by the Office System macro security settings, which can cause macro viruses to load undetected and lead to data loss or reduced application functionality.
Checks: C-45569r711172_chk

The policy value for User Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Word 2010 -> Word Options -> Security -> Trust Center "Scan encrypted macros in Word Open XML documents" must be "Enabled (Scan encrypted macros (default))". Procedure: Use the Windows Registry Editor to navigate to the following key: HKCU\Software\Policies\Microsoft\Office\14.0\word\security Criteria: If the value WordBypassEncryptedMacroScan is REG_DWORD = 0, this is not a finding.

Fix: F-45527r711173_fix

Set the policy value for User Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Word 2010 -> Word Options -> Security -> Trust Center "Scan encrypted macros in Word Open XML documents" to "Enabled (Scan encrypted macros (default))".

b
Trust access for VBA must be disallowed.
CM-7 - Medium - CCI-000381 - V-242295 - SV-242295r960963_rule
RMF Control
CM-7
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-000381
Version
DTOO146 - Word
Vuln IDs
  • V-242295
  • V-17522
Rule IDs
  • SV-242295r960963_rule
  • SV-33615
VSTO projects require access to the Visual Basic for Applications project system in Excel, PowerPoint, and Word, even though the projects do not use Visual Basic for Applications. Design-time support of controls in both Visual Basic and C# projects depends on the Visual Basic for Applications project system in Word and Excel. By default, Excel, Word, and PowerPoint do not allow automation clients to have programmatic access to VBA projects. Users can enable this by selecting the Trust access to the VBA project object model in the Macro Settings section of the Trust Center. However, doing so allows macros in any documents the user opens to access the core Visual Basic objects, methods, and properties, which represents a potential security hazard.
Checks: C-45570r711175_chk

The policy value for User Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Word 2010 -> Word Options -> Security -> Trust Center "Trust access to Visual Basic Project" must be set to "Disabled". Procedure: Use the Windows Registry Editor to navigate to the following key: HKCU\Software\Policies\Microsoft\Office\14.0\word\security Criteria: If the value AccessVBOM is REG_DWORD = 0, this is not a finding.

Fix: F-45528r711176_fix

Set the policy value for User Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Word 2010 -> Word Options -> Security -> Trust Center "Trust access to Visual Basic Project" to "Disabled".

b
Protection from zone elevation must be enforced.
SC-18 - Medium - CCI-001695 - V-242296 - SV-242296r960921_rule
RMF Control
SC-18
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-001695
Version
DTOO209 - Word
Vuln IDs
  • V-242296
  • V-26585
Rule IDs
  • SV-242296r960921_rule
  • SV-33789
Internet Explorer places restrictions on each web page users can use the browser to open. Web pages on a user's local computer have the fewest security restrictions and reside in the Local Machine zone, making this security zone a prime target for malicious users and code. Disabling or not configuring this setting could allow pages in the Internet zone to navigate to pages in the Local Machine zone to then run code to elevate privileges. This could allow malicious code or users to become active on user computers or the network.
Checks: C-45571r711178_chk

The policy value for Computer Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Office 2010 (Machine) -> Security Settings -> IE Security "Protection From Zone Elevation" must be set to "Enabled" and "winword.exe" is checked. Procedure: Use the Windows Registry Editor to navigate to the following key: HKLM\Software\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Main\FeatureControl\FEATURE_ZONE_ELEVATION Criteria: If the value winword.exe is REG_DWORD = 1, this is not a finding.

Fix: F-45529r711179_fix

Set the policy value for Computer Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Office 2010 (Machine) -> Security Settings -> IE Security "Protection From Zone Elevation" to "Enabled" and "winword.exe" is checked.

b
Pre-release versions of file formats new to Office Products must be blocked.
CM-7 - Medium - CCI-001764 - V-242297 - SV-242297r961473_rule
RMF Control
CM-7
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-001764
Version
DTOO210 - Word
Vuln IDs
  • V-242297
  • V-17322
Rule IDs
  • SV-242297r961473_rule
  • SV-33450
This policy setting controls whether users with the Microsoft Office Compatibility Pack for Word 2010 File Formats installed can open Office Open XML files saved with pre-release versions of Word 2010. Word Open XML files usually have the following extensions: .docx, .docm, .dotx, .dotm, .xml.
Checks: C-45572r711181_chk

The policy value for User Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Office 2010 -> Office 2010 Converters "Block opening of pre-release versions of file formats new to Word 2010 through the Compatibility Pack for Office 2010 and Word 2010 Open XML/Word 97-2003 Format Converter" must be set to "Enabled". Procedure: Use the Windows Registry Editor to navigate to the following key: HKCU\Software\Policies\Microsoft\Office\14.0\word\security\fileblock Criteria: If the value Word12BetaFilesFromConverters is REG_DWORD = 1, this is not a finding.

Fix: F-45530r711226_fix

Set the policy value for User Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Office 2010 -> Office 2010 Converters "Block opening of pre-release versions of file formats new to Word 2010 through the Compatibility Pack for Office 2010 and Word 2010 Open XML/Word 97-2003 Format Converter" to "Enabled".

b
ActiveX Installs must be configured for proper restriction.
SC-18 - Medium - CCI-002460 - V-242298 - SV-242298r961779_rule
RMF Control
SC-18
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-002460
Version
DTOO211 - Word
Vuln IDs
  • V-242298
  • V-26586
Rule IDs
  • SV-242298r961779_rule
  • SV-33795
Microsoft ActiveX controls allow unmanaged, unprotected code to run on the user computers. ActiveX controls do not run within a protected container in the browser like the other types of HTML or Microsoft Silverlight-based controls. Disabling or not configuring this setting does not block prompts for ActiveX control installations and these prompts display to users. This could allow malicious code to become active on user computers or the network.
Checks: C-45573r711184_chk

The policy value for Computer Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Office 2010 (Machine) -> Security Settings -> IE Security "Restrict ActiveX Install" must be set to "Enabled" and "winword.exe" is checked. Procedure: Use the Windows Registry Editor to navigate to the following key: HKLM\Software\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Main\FeatureControl\FEATURE_RESTRICT_ACTIVEXINSTALL Criteria: If the value winword.exe is REG_DWORD = 1, this is not a finding.

Fix: F-45531r711185_fix

Set the policy value for Computer Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Office 2010 (Machine) -> Security Settings -> IE Security "Restrict ActiveX Install" to "Enabled" and "winword.exe" is checked.

b
Files in unsafe locations must be opened in Protected View.
SC-18 - Medium - CCI-001170 - V-242299 - SV-242299r961092_rule
RMF Control
SC-18
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-001170
Version
DTOO288 - Word
Vuln IDs
  • V-242299
  • V-26615
Rule IDs
  • SV-242299r961092_rule
  • SV-33865
This policy setting determines if files located in unsafe locations will open in Protected View. If unsafe locations have not been specified, only the "Downloaded Program Files" and "Temporary Internet Files" folders are considered unsafe locations. If enabling this policy setting, files located in unsafe locations do not open in Protected View. If disabling or not configuring this policy setting, files located in unsafe locations open in Protected View.
Checks: C-45574r711187_chk

The policy value for User Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Word 2010 -> Word Options -> Security -> Trust Center -> Protected View "Do not open files in unsafe locations in Protected View" must be set to "Disabled". Procedure: Use the Windows Registry Editor to navigate to the following key: HKCU\Software\Policies\Microsoft\Office\14.0\word\security\protectedview Criteria: If the value DisableUnsafeLocationsInPV is REG_DWORD = 0, this is not a finding.

Fix: F-45532r711188_fix

Set the policy value for User Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Word 2010 -> Word Options -> Security -> Trust Center -> Protected View "Do not open files in unsafe locations in Protected View" to "Disabled".

b
Document behavior if file validation fails must be set.
SC-18 - Medium - CCI-001170 - V-242300 - SV-242300r961092_rule
RMF Control
SC-18
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-001170
Version
DTOO292 - Word
Vuln IDs
  • V-242300
  • V-26616
Rule IDs
  • SV-242300r961092_rule
  • SV-33868
This policy key controls the behavior of how Office documents should be handled when failing File Validation. The options available are: -Block files completely. This will prevent users from opening files. -Open files in Protected View and disallow edit. This will prevent users from editing the files. -Open files in Protected view and allow edit. This will allow users to edit the files. If disabling or not configuring this policy setting, the default setting will be, "open files in protected view and allow edit".
Checks: C-45575r711190_chk

The policy value for User Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Word 2010 -> Word Options -> Security -> Trust Center -> Protected View "Set document behavior if file validation fails" must be "Enabled: Open in Protected View" and Unchecked for "Do not allow edit". Procedure: Use the Windows Registry Editor to navigate to the following keys: HKCU\Software\Policies\Microsoft\Office\14.0\word\security\filevalidation Criteria: If the value OpenInProtectedView is REG_DWORD = 1, this is not a finding. AND HKCU\Software\Policies\Microsoft\Office\14.0\word\security\filevalidation Criteria: If the value DisableEditFromPV is REG_DWORD = 1, this is not a finding.

Fix: F-45533r711228_fix

Set the policy value for User Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Word 2010 -> Word Options -> Security -> Trust Center -> Protected View "Set document behavior if file validation fails" to "Enabled: Open in Protected View" and Unchecked for "Do not allow edit".

b
Attachments opened from Outlook must be in Protected View.
SC-18 - Medium - CCI-001170 - V-242301 - SV-242301r961092_rule
RMF Control
SC-18
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-001170
Version
DTOO293 - Word
Vuln IDs
  • V-242301
  • V-26617
Rule IDs
  • SV-242301r961092_rule
  • SV-33871
This policy setting allows for determining if Excel files in Outlook attachments open in Protected View. If enabling this policy setting, Outlook attachments do not open in Protected View. If disabling or not configuring this policy setting, Outlook attachments open in Protected View.
Checks: C-45576r711193_chk

The policy value for User Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Word 2010 -> Word Options -> Security -> Trust Center -> Protected View "Turn off Protected View for attachments opened from Outlook" must be set to "Disabled". Procedure: Use the Windows Registry Editor to navigate to the following keys: HKCU\Software\Policies\Microsoft\Office\14.0\word\security\protectedview Criteria: If the value DisableAttachmentsInPV is REG_DWORD = 0, this is not a finding.

Fix: F-45534r711194_fix

Set the policy value for User Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Word 2010 -> Word Options -> Security -> Trust Center -> Protected View "Turn off Protected View for attachments opened from Outlook" to "Disabled".

b
The automatically update links feature must be configured as off.
SC-18 - Medium - CCI-001170 - V-242302 - SV-242302r961092_rule
RMF Control
SC-18
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-001170
Version
DTOO302 - Word
Vuln IDs
  • V-242302
  • V-17811
Rule IDs
  • SV-242302r961092_rule
  • SV-33609
When users open documents Word automatically updates any links to external content, such as graphics, Excel worksheets, and PowerPoint slides. To disable automatic updating, the user can click the Office Button, click Word Options, click Advanced, scroll to the General section, and then clear the Update automatic links at open check box. If Word is configured to automatically update links when documents are open, document content can change without the user's knowledge, which could put important information at risk.
Checks: C-45577r711196_chk

The policy value for User Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Word 2010 -> Word Options -> Advanced "Update automatic links at Open" must be set to "Disabled". Procedure: Use the Windows Registry Editor to navigate to the following key: HKCU\Software\Policies\Microsoft\Office\14.0\word\options Criteria: If the value DontUpdateLinks is REG_DWORD = 1 this is not a finding.

Fix: F-45535r711197_fix

Set the policy value for User Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Word 2010 -> Word Options -> Advanced "Update automatic links at Open" to "Disabled".

b
A warning before printing that the document contains tracking changes must be provided.
CM-6 - Medium - CCI-000366 - V-242303 - SV-242303r961863_rule
RMF Control
CM-6
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-000366
Version
DTOO303 - Word
Vuln IDs
  • V-242303
  • V-17813
Rule IDs
  • SV-242303r961863_rule
  • SV-33611
Tracked changes or comments embedded within a document may contain sensitive, insulting, or embarrassing information that the document owner forgot, or that a contributor may have placed.
Checks: C-45578r711199_chk

The policy value for User Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Word 2010 -> Word Options -> Security "Warn before printing, saving or sending a file that contains tracked changes or comments" must be set to "Enabled". Procedure: Use the Windows Registry Editor to navigate to the following key: HKCU\Software\Policies\Microsoft\Office\14.0\word\options\vpref Criteria: If the value fWarnRevisions_1125_1 is REG_DWORD = 1 this is not a finding.

Fix: F-45536r711200_fix

Set the policy value for User Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Word 2010 -> Word Options -> Security "Warn before printing, saving or sending a file that contains tracked changes or comments" to "Enabled".

b
Warning Bar settings for VBA macros must be configured.
CM-7 - Medium - CCI-000381 - V-242304 - SV-242304r960963_rule
RMF Control
CM-7
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-000381
Version
DTOO304 - Word
Vuln IDs
  • V-242304
  • V-17545
Rule IDs
  • SV-242304r960963_rule
  • SV-33619
When users open files containing VBA Macros, applications open the files with the macros disabled and displays the Trust Bar with a warning that macros are present and have been disabled. Users may then enable these macros by clicking Options on the Trust Bar and selecting the option to enable them. Disabling or not configuring this setting may allow dangerous macros to become active on user computers or the network.
Checks: C-45579r711202_chk

NOTE: If VBA support is not installed, this check is Not Applicable. The policy value for User Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Word 2010 -> Word Options -> Security -> Trust Center "VBA Macro Notification Settings" must be "Enabled (Disable all with notification)". Procedure: Use the Windows Registry Editor to navigate to the following key: HKCU\Software\Policies\Microsoft\Office\14.0\word\security Criteria: If the value VBAWarnings is REG_DWORD = 2, this is not a finding.

Fix: F-45537r711203_fix

Set the policy value for User Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Word 2010 -> Word Options -> Security -> Trust Center "VBA Macro Notification Settings" to "Enabled (Disable all with notification)".

b
Online translation dictionaries must be in use.
SC-18 - Medium - CCI-001170 - V-242305 - SV-242305r961092_rule
RMF Control
SC-18
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-001170
Version
DTOO328 - Word
Vuln IDs
  • V-242305
  • V-26648
Rule IDs
  • SV-242305r961092_rule
  • SV-34094
This setting allows you to prevent online dictionaries from being used for the translation of text through the Research pane.
Checks: C-45580r711205_chk

The policy value for User Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Word 2010 -> Miscellaneous "Use online translation dictionaries" must be set to "Enabled". Procedure: Use the Windows Registry Editor to navigate to the following key: HKCU\Software\Policies\Microsoft\Office\14.0\common\research\translation Criteria: If the value UseOnline is REG_DWORD = 1, this is not a finding.

Fix: F-45538r711206_fix

Set the policy value for User Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Word 2010 -> Miscellaneous "Use online translation dictionaries" to "Enabled".

b
Word 2 and earlier binary documents and templates must be blocked for open/save.
SC-18 - Medium - CCI-001662 - V-242306 - SV-242306r961086_rule
RMF Control
SC-18
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-001662
Version
DTOO333 - Word
Vuln IDs
  • V-242306
  • V-26653
Rule IDs
  • SV-242306r961086_rule
  • SV-34095
This setting allows you to determine whether users can open, view, edit, or save Word files with the format specified by the title of this policy setting.
Checks: C-45581r711208_chk

The policy value for User Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Word 2010 -> Word Options -> Security -> Trust Center -> File Block Settings "Word 2 and earlier binary documents and templates" must be "Enabled: Open/Save blocked, use open policy". Procedure: Use the Windows Registry Editor to navigate to the following key: HKCU\Software\Policies\Microsoft\Office\14.0\word\security\fileblock Criteria: If the value Word2Files is REG_DWORD = 2, this is not a finding.

Fix: F-45539r711230_fix

Set the policy value for User Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Word 2010 -> Word Options -> Security -> Trust Center -> File Block Settings "Word 2 and earlier binary documents and templates" to "Enabled: Open/Save blocked, use open policy".

b
Word 2000 binary documents and templates must be configured to edit in protected view.
SC-18 - Medium - CCI-001662 - V-242307 - SV-242307r961086_rule
RMF Control
SC-18
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-001662
Version
DTOO334 - Word
Vuln IDs
  • V-242307
  • V-26654
Rule IDs
  • SV-242307r961086_rule
  • SV-34096
This setting allows you to determine whether users can open, view, edit, or save Word files with the format specified by the title of this policy setting.
Checks: C-45582r711211_chk

The policy value for User Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Word 2010 -> Word Options -> Security -> Trust Center -> File Block Settings "Word 2000 binary documents and templates" must be "Enabled: Allow editing and open in Protected View". Procedure: Use the Windows Registry Editor to navigate to the following key: HKCU\Software\Policies\Microsoft\Office\14.0\word\security\fileblock Criteria: If the value Word2000Files is REG_DWORD = 5, this is not a finding.

Fix: F-45540r711232_fix

Set the policy value for User Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Word 2010 -> Word Options -> Security -> Trust Center -> File Block Settings "Word 2000 binary documents and templates" to "Enabled: Allow editing and open in Protected View".

b
Word 6.0 binary documents and templates must be configured for block open/save actions.
SC-18 - Medium - CCI-001662 - V-242308 - SV-242308r961086_rule
RMF Control
SC-18
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-001662
Version
DTOO336 - Word
Vuln IDs
  • V-242308
  • V-26656
Rule IDs
  • SV-242308r961086_rule
  • SV-34097
This setting allows you to determine whether users can open, view, edit, or save Word files with the format specified by the title of this policy setting.
Checks: C-45583r711214_chk

The policy value for User Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Word 2010 -> Word Options -> Security -> Trust Center -> File Block Settings "Word 6.0 binary documents and templates" must be "Enabled: Open/Save blocked, use open policy". Procedure: Use the Windows Registry Editor to navigate to the following key: HKCU\Software\Policies\Microsoft\Office\14.0\word\security\fileblock Criteria: If the value Word60Files is REG_DWORD = 2, this is not a finding.

Fix: F-45541r711215_fix

Set the policy value for User Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Word 2010 -> Word Options -> Security -> Trust Center -> File Block Settings "Word 6.0 binary documents and templates" to "Enabled: Open/Save blocked, use open policy".

b
Word 95 binary documents and templates must be configured to edit in protected view.
SC-18 - Medium - CCI-001662 - V-242309 - SV-242309r961086_rule
RMF Control
SC-18
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-001662
Version
DTOO337 - Word
Vuln IDs
  • V-242309
  • V-26657
Rule IDs
  • SV-242309r961086_rule
  • SV-34098
This setting allows you to determine whether users can open, view, edit, or save Word files with the format specified by the title of this policy setting.
Checks: C-45584r711217_chk

The policy value for User Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Word 2010 -> Word Options -> Security -> Trust Center -> File Block Settings "Word 95 binary documents and templates" must be "Enabled: Allow editing and open in Protected View". Procedure: Use the Windows Registry Editor to navigate to the following key: HKCU\Software\Policies\Microsoft\Office\14.0\word\security\fileblock Criteria: If the value Word95Files is REG_DWORD = 5, this is not a finding.

Fix: F-45542r711234_fix

Set the policy value for User Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Word 2010 -> Word Options -> Security -> Trust Center -> File Block Settings "Word 95 binary documents and templates" to "Enabled: Allow editing and open in Protected View".

b
Word 97 binary documents and templates must be configured to edit in protected view.
SC-18 - Medium - CCI-001662 - V-242310 - SV-242310r961086_rule
RMF Control
SC-18
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-001662
Version
DTOO338 - Word
Vuln IDs
  • V-242310
  • V-26658
Rule IDs
  • SV-242310r961086_rule
  • SV-34099
This setting allows you to determine whether users can open, view, edit, or save Word files with the format specified by the title of this policy setting.
Checks: C-45585r711220_chk

The policy value for User Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Word 2010 -> Word Options -> Security -> Trust Center -> File Block Settings "Word 97 binary documents and templates" must be "Enabled: Allow editing and open in Protected View". Procedure: Use the Windows Registry Editor to navigate to the following key: HKCU\Software\Policies\Microsoft\Office\14.0\word\security\fileblock Criteria: If the value Word97Files is REG_DWORD = 5, this is not a finding.

Fix: F-45543r711236_fix

Set the policy value for User Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Word 2010 -> Word Options -> Security -> Trust Center -> File Block Settings "Word 97 binary documents and templates" to "Enabled: Allow editing and open in Protected View".

b
Word XP binary documents and templates must be configured to edit in protected view.
SC-18 - Medium - CCI-001662 - V-242311 - SV-242311r961086_rule
RMF Control
SC-18
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-001662
Version
DTOO339 - Word
Vuln IDs
  • V-242311
  • V-26659
Rule IDs
  • SV-242311r961086_rule
  • SV-34100
This setting allows you to determine whether users can open, view, edit, or save Word files with the format specified by the title of this policy setting.
Checks: C-45586r711223_chk

The policy value for User Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Word 2010 -> Word Options -> Security -> Trust Center -> File Block Settings "Word XP binary documents and templates" must be "Enabled: Allow editing and open in Protected View". Procedure: Use the Windows Registry Editor to navigate to the following key: HKCU\Software\Policies\Microsoft\Office\14.0\word\security\fileblock Criteria: If the value WordXPFiles is REG_DWORD = 5, this is not a finding.

Fix: F-45544r711238_fix

Set the policy value for User Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Word 2010 -> Word Options -> Security -> Trust Center -> File Block Settings "Word XP binary documents and templates" to "Enabled: Allow editing and open in Protected View".

c
The version of Microsoft Word running on the system must be a supported version.
SI-2 - High - CCI-002605 - V-265901 - SV-265901r999907_rule
RMF Control
SI-2
Severity
High
CCI
CCI-002605
Version
DTOO999 - Word
Vuln IDs
  • V-265901
Rule IDs
  • SV-265901r999907_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 also to applications themselves 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 that 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-69820r999905_chk

Microsoft Word 2010 is no longer supported by the vendor. If the system is running Microsoft Word 2010, this is a finding.

Fix: F-69724r999906_fix

Upgrade to a supported version.