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Microsoft Word 2013 Security Technical Implementation Guide

  • Version/Release: V1R7
  • Published: 2024-06-14
  • Released: 2024-07-24
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This Security Technical Implementation Guide is published as a tool to improve the security of Department of Defense (DOD) information systems. The requirements are derived from the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) 800-53 and related documents. Comments or proposed revisions to this document should be sent via email to the following address: disa.stig_spt@mail.mil.
b
Disabling of user name and password syntax from being used in URLs must be enforced.
SC-18 - Medium - CCI-001170 - V-242827 - SV-242827r961092_rule
RMF Control
SC-18
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-001170
Version
DTOO104
Vuln IDs
  • V-242827
  • V-17173
Rule IDs
  • SV-242827r961092_rule
  • SV-53554
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 website but actually opens a deceptive (spoofed) website. 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-46102r716894_chk

Verify the policy value for Computer Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Office 2013 (Machine) -> Security Settings -> IE Security "Disable user name and password" is set to "Enabled" and a check in the 'winword.exe' check box is selected. 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-46059r716895_fix

Set the policy value for Computer Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Office 2013 (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-242828 - SV-242828r961086_rule
RMF Control
SC-18
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-001662
Version
DTOO110
Vuln IDs
  • V-242828
  • V-26612
Rule IDs
  • SV-242828r961086_rule
  • SV-53555
Users can open, view, or edit a large number of file types in Office 2013. 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-46103r716897_chk

Verify the policy value for User Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Word 2013 -> Word Options -> Security -> Trust Center -> File Block Settings "Set default file block behavior" is set to "Enabled: Blocked files are not opened". Procedure: Use the Windows Registry Editor to navigate to the following key: HKCU\Software\Policies\Microsoft\Office\15.0\word\security\fileblock Criteria: If the value OpenInProtectedView is REG_DWORD = 0, this is not a finding.

Fix: F-46060r716898_fix

Set the policy value for User Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Word 2013 -> Word Options -> Security -> Trust Center -> File Block Settings "Set default file block behavior" to "Enabled: Blocked files are not opened".

b
The Internet Explorer Bind to Object functionality must be enabled.
SC-18 - Medium - CCI-001695 - V-242829 - SV-242829r961086_rule
RMF Control
SC-18
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-001695
Version
DTOO111
Vuln IDs
  • V-242829
  • V-17174
Rule IDs
  • SV-242829r961086_rule
  • SV-53557
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-46104r716900_chk

Verify the policy value for Computer Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Office 2013 (Machine) -> Security Settings -> IE Security "Bind to Object" is set to "Enabled" and a check in the 'winword.exe' check box is selected. 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-46061r716901_fix

Set the policy value for Computer Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Office 2013 (Machine) -> Security Settings -> IE Security "Bind to Object" to "Enabled" and place a check in the 'winword.exe' check box.

b
The Saved from URL mark must be selected to enforce Internet zone processing.
SC-18 - Medium - CCI-001170 - V-242830 - SV-242830r961092_rule
RMF Control
SC-18
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-001170
Version
DTOO117
Vuln IDs
  • V-242830
  • V-17175
Rule IDs
  • SV-242830r961092_rule
  • SV-53558
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-46105r716903_chk

Verify the policy value for Computer Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Office 2013 (Machine) -> Security Settings -> IE Security "Saved from URL" is set to "Enabled" and a check in the 'winword.exe' check box is selected. 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-46062r716904_fix

Set the policy value for Computer Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Office 2013 (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-242831 - SV-242831r960921_rule
RMF Control
SC-18
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-001695
Version
DTOO119
Vuln IDs
  • V-242831
  • V-26592
Rule IDs
  • SV-242831r960921_rule
  • SV-53559
Office File Validation helps detect and prevent a kind of exploit known as a file format attack or file fuzzing attack. File format attacks exploit the integrity of a file. They occur when someone modifies the structure of a file with the intent of adding malicious code. Usually the malicious code is run remotely and is used to elevate the privilege of restricted accounts on the computer. As a result, an attacker could gain access to a computer that they did not previously have access to. This could enable an attacker to read sensitive information from the computer's hard disk drive or install malware, such as a worm or a key logging program. The Office File Validation feature helps prevent file format attacks by scanning and validating files before they are opened. To validate files, Office File Validation compares a file's structure to a predefined file schema, which is a set of rules that determine what a readable file looks like. If Office File Validation detects that a file's structure does not follow all rules that are described in the schema, the file does not pass validation.
Checks: C-46106r716906_chk

Verify the policy value for User Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Word 2013 -> Word Options -> Security "Turn off file validation" is set to "Disabled". Procedure: Use the Windows Registry Editor to navigate to the following key: HKCU\Software\Policies\Microsoft\Office\15.0\word\security\filevalidation Criteria: If the value EnableOnLoad is REG_DWORD = 1, this is not a finding.

Fix: F-46063r716907_fix

Set the policy value for User Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Word 2013 -> 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-242832 - SV-242832r961086_rule
RMF Control
SC-18
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-001662
Version
DTOO121
Vuln IDs
  • V-242832
  • V-26614
Rule IDs
  • SV-242832r961086_rule
  • SV-53560
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-46107r716909_chk

Verify the policy value for User Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Word 2013 -> Word Options -> Security -> Trust Center -> Protected View "Do not open files from the Internet zone in Protected View" is set to "Disabled". Procedure: Use the Windows Registry Editor to navigate to the following key: HKCU\Software\Policies\Microsoft\Office\15.0\word\security\protectedview Criteria: If the value DisableInternetFilesInPV is REG_DWORD = 0, this is not a finding.

Fix: F-46064r716910_fix

Set the policy value for User Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Word 2013 -> Word Options -> Security -> Trust Center -> Protected View "Do not open files from the Internet zone in Protected View" to "Disabled".

b
Navigation to URLs embedded in Office products must be blocked.
SC-18 - Medium - CCI-001170 - V-242833 - SV-242833r961092_rule
RMF Control
SC-18
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-001170
Version
DTOO123
Vuln IDs
  • V-242833
  • V-17183
Rule IDs
  • SV-242833r961092_rule
  • SV-53561
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.
Checks: C-46108r716912_chk

Verify the policy value for Computer Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Office 2013 (Machine) -> Security Settings -> IE Security "Navigate URL" is set to "Enabled" and a check in the 'winword.exe' check box is selected. 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-46065r716913_fix

Set the policy value for Computer Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Office 2013 (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-242834 - SV-242834r960921_rule
RMF Control
SC-18
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-001695
Version
DTOO124
Vuln IDs
  • V-242834
  • V-26588
Rule IDs
  • SV-242834r960921_rule
  • SV-53562
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-46109r716915_chk

Verify the policy value for Computer Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Office 2013 (Machine) -> Security Settings -> IE Security "Scripted Window Security Restrictions" is 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-46066r716916_fix

Set the policy value for Computer Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Office 2013 (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-242835 - SV-242835r961086_rule
RMF Control
SC-18
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-001662
Version
DTOO126
Vuln IDs
  • V-242835
  • V-26584
Rule IDs
  • SV-242835r961086_rule
  • SV-53563
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-46110r716918_chk

Verify the policy value for Computer Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Office 2013 (Machine) -> Security Settings -> IE Security "Add-on Management " is 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-46067r716919_fix

Set the policy value for Computer Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Office 2013 (Machine) -> Security Settings -> IE Security "Add-on Management " to "Enabled" and 'winword.exe' is checked.

b
Add-ins to Office applications must be signed by a Trusted Publisher.
CM-5 - Medium - CCI-001749 - V-242836 - SV-242836r960954_rule
RMF Control
CM-5
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-001749
Version
DTOO127
Vuln IDs
  • V-242836
  • V-26589
Rule IDs
  • SV-242836r960954_rule
  • SV-53564
Office 2013 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-46111r716921_chk

Verify the policy value for User Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Word 2013 -> Word Options -> Security -> Trust Center "Require that application add-ins are signed by Trusted Publisher" is set to "Enabled". Procedure: Use the Windows Registry Editor to navigate to the following key: HKCU\Software\Policies\Microsoft\Office\15.0\word\security Criteria: If the value RequireAddinSig is REG_DWORD = 1, this is not a finding.

Fix: F-46068r716922_fix

Set the policy value for User Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Word 2013 -> Word Options -> Security -> Trust Center "Require that application add-ins are signed by Trusted Publisher" to "Enabled".

b
Links that invoke instances of Internet Explorer from within an Office product must be blocked.
SC-18 - Medium - CCI-001662 - V-242837 - SV-242837r961086_rule
RMF Control
SC-18
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-001662
Version
DTOO129
Vuln IDs
  • V-242837
  • V-17184
Rule IDs
  • SV-242837r961086_rule
  • SV-53565
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-46112r716924_chk

Verify the policy value for Computer Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Office 2013 (Machine) -> Security Settings -> IE Security "Block popups" is 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_WEBOC_POPUPMANAGEMENT Criteria: If the value winword.exe is REG_DWORD = 1, this is not a finding.

Fix: F-46069r716925_fix

Set the policy value for Computer Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Office 2013 (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-242838 - SV-242838r960954_rule
RMF Control
CM-5
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-001749
Version
DTOO131
Vuln IDs
  • V-242838
  • V-17187
Rule IDs
  • SV-242838r960954_rule
  • SV-53566
If an application is configured to require all add-ins to 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. If a user is allowed to make the determination to allow an unsigned add-in, it increases the risk of malicious code being introduced onto the user's computer or the network.
Checks: C-46113r716927_chk

Verify the policy value for User Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Word 2013 -> Word Options -> Security -> Trust Center "Disable Trust Bar Notification for unsigned application add-ins and block them" is set to "Enabled". Procedure: Use the Windows Registry Editor to navigate to the following key: HKCU\Software\Policies\Microsoft\Office\15.0\word\security Criteria: If the value NoTBPromptUnsignedAddin is REG_DWORD = 1, this is not a finding.

Fix: F-46070r716928_fix

Set the policy value for User Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Word 2013 -> 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-242839 - SV-242839r961089_rule
RMF Control
SC-18
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-001169
Version
DTOO132
Vuln IDs
  • V-242839
  • V-26587
Rule IDs
  • SV-242839r961089_rule
  • SV-53568
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 interaction 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-46114r716930_chk

Verify the policy value for Computer Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Office 2013 (Machine) -> Security Settings -> IE Security "Restrict File Download" is 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-46071r716931_fix

Set the policy value for Computer Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Office 2013 (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-242840 - SV-242840r961092_rule
RMF Control
SC-18
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-001170
Version
DTOO133
Vuln IDs
  • V-242840
  • V-17471
Rule IDs
  • SV-242840r961092_rule
  • SV-53571
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-46115r716933_chk

Verify the policy value for User Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Word 2013 -> Word Options -> Security -> Trust Center -> Trusted Locations "Disable all trusted locations" is set to "Enabled". Procedure: Use the Windows Registry Editor to navigate to the following key: HKCU\Software\Policies\Microsoft\Office\15.0\word\security\trusted locations Criteria: If the value AllLocationsDisabled is REG_DWORD = 1, this is not a finding.

Fix: F-46072r716934_fix

Set the policy value for User Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Word 2013 -> 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-242841 - SV-242841r961092_rule
RMF Control
SC-18
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-001170
Version
DTOO134
Vuln IDs
  • V-242841
  • V-17520
Rule IDs
  • SV-242841r961092_rule
  • SV-53572
Files located in Trusted Locations and specified in the Trust Center are typically 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-46116r716936_chk

Verify the policy value for User Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Word 2013 -> Word Options -> Security -> Trust Center -> Trusted Locations "Allow Trusted Locations on the network" is set to "Disabled". Procedure: Use the Windows Registry Editor to navigate to the following key: HKCU\Software\Policies\Microsoft\Office\15.0\word\security\trusted locations Criteria: If the value AllowNetworkLocations is REG_DWORD = 0, this is not a finding.

Fix: F-46073r716937_fix

Set the policy value for User Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Word 2013 -> Word Options -> Security -> Trust Center -> Trusted Locations "Allow Trusted Locations on the network" to "Disabled".

b
The Save commands default file format must be configured.
CM-7 - Medium - CCI-000381 - V-242842 - SV-242842r960963_rule
RMF Control
CM-7
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-000381
Version
DTOO139
Vuln IDs
  • V-242842
  • V-17521
Rule IDs
  • SV-242842r960963_rule
  • SV-53574
When users create new document files, Word 2013 saves them in the new Word 2013 .docx format. Ensure this setting is enabled to specify that all new files are created in Word 2013. 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 2013 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-46117r716939_chk

Verify the policy value for User Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Word 2013 -> Word Options -> Save "default file format" is set to "Enabled Word Document (.docx)". Procedure: Use the Windows Registry Editor to navigate to the following key: HKCU\Software\Policies\Microsoft\Office\15.0\word\options Criteria: If the value DefaultFormat is REG_SZ = (blank), this is not a finding.

Fix: F-46074r716940_fix

Set the policy value for User Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Word 2013 -> 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-242843 - SV-242843r961092_rule
RMF Control
SC-18
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-001170
Version
DTOO142
Vuln IDs
  • V-242843
  • V-17473
Rule IDs
  • SV-242843r961092_rule
  • SV-53575
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-46118r716942_chk

Verify the policy value for User Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Word 2013 -> Word Options -> Security -> Trust Center "Scan encrypted macros in Word Open XML documents" is set to "Enabled (Scan encrypted macros (default))". Procedure: Use the Windows Registry Editor to navigate to the following key: HKCU\Software\Policies\Microsoft\Office\15.0\word\security Criteria: If the value WordBypassEncryptedMacroScan is REG_DWORD = 0, this is not a finding.

Fix: F-46075r716943_fix

Set the policy value for User Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Word 2013 -> 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-242844 - SV-242844r960963_rule
RMF Control
CM-7
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-000381
Version
DTOO146
Vuln IDs
  • V-242844
  • V-17522
Rule IDs
  • SV-242844r960963_rule
  • SV-53576
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-46119r716945_chk

Verify the policy value for User Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Word 2013 -> Word Options -> Security -> Trust Center "Trust access to Visual Basic Project" is set to "Disabled". Procedure: Use the Windows Registry Editor to navigate to the following key: HKCU\Software\Policies\Microsoft\Office\15.0\word\security Criteria: If the value AccessVBOM is REG_DWORD = 0, this is not a finding.

Fix: F-46076r716946_fix

Set the policy value for User Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Word 2013 -> 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-242845 - SV-242845r960921_rule
RMF Control
SC-18
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-001695
Version
DTOO209
Vuln IDs
  • V-242845
  • V-26585
Rule IDs
  • SV-242845r960921_rule
  • SV-53577
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-46120r716948_chk

Verify the policy value for Computer Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Office 2013 (Machine) -> Security Settings -> IE Security "Protection From Zone Elevation" is 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-46077r716949_fix

Set the policy value for Computer Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Office 2013 (Machine) -> Security Settings -> IE Security "Protection From Zone Elevation" to "Enabled" and 'winword.exe' is checked.

b
ActiveX Installs must be configured for proper restriction.
SC-18 - Medium - CCI-002460 - V-242846 - SV-242846r961779_rule
RMF Control
SC-18
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-002460
Version
DTOO211
Vuln IDs
  • V-242846
  • V-26586
Rule IDs
  • SV-242846r961779_rule
  • SV-53578
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-46121r716951_chk

Verify the policy value for Computer Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Office 2013 (Machine) -> Security Settings -> IE Security "Restrict ActiveX Install" is 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-46078r716952_fix

Set the policy value for Computer Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Office 2013 (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-242847 - SV-242847r961092_rule
RMF Control
SC-18
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-001170
Version
DTOO288
Vuln IDs
  • V-242847
  • V-26615
Rule IDs
  • SV-242847r961092_rule
  • SV-53579
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-46122r716954_chk

Verify the policy value for User Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Word 2013 -> Word Options -> Security -> Trust Center -> Protected View "Do not open files in unsafe locations in Protected View" is set to "Disabled". Procedure: Use the Windows Registry Editor to navigate to the following key: HKCU\Software\Policies\Microsoft\Office\15.0\word\security\protectedview Criteria: If the value DisableUnsafeLocationsInPV is REG_DWORD = 0, this is not a finding.

Fix: F-46079r716955_fix

Set the policy value for User Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Word 2013 -> 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-242848 - SV-242848r961092_rule
RMF Control
SC-18
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-001170
Version
DTOO292
Vuln IDs
  • V-242848
  • V-26616
Rule IDs
  • SV-242848r961092_rule
  • SV-53581
This policy key controls the behavior of how Office documents should be handled when failing file validation. By requiring such documents to be opened in Protected View, any potentially malicious code would be disabled, allowing the user to edit the document and resaved correctly.
Checks: C-46123r716957_chk

Verify the policy value for User Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Word 2013 -> Word Options -> Security -> Trust Center -> Protected View "Set document behavior if file validation fails" is set to "Enabled: Open in Protected View" and Unchecked for "Do not allow edit". Procedure: Use the Windows Registry Editor to navigate to the following keys: If both HKCU\Software\Policies\Microsoft\Office\15.0\word\security\filevalidation\OpenInProtectedView is set to REG_DWORD = 1 and HKCU\Software\Policies\Microsoft\Office\15.0\word\security\filevalidation\DisableEditFromPV is set to REG_DWORD = 1, this is not a finding. If either, or both keys is not set to REG_DWORD = 1, this is a finding.

Fix: F-46080r716999_fix

Set the policy value for User Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Word 2013 -> 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-242849 - SV-242849r961092_rule
RMF Control
SC-18
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-001170
Version
DTOO293
Vuln IDs
  • V-242849
  • V-26617
Rule IDs
  • SV-242849r961092_rule
  • SV-53582
This policy setting allows for determining if Word 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-46124r716960_chk

Verify the policy value for User Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Word 2013 -> Word Options -> Security -> Trust Center -> Protected View "Turn off Protected View for attachments opened from Outlook" is set to "Disabled". Procedure: Use the Windows Registry Editor to navigate to the following keys: HKCU\Software\Policies\Microsoft\Office\15.0\word\security\protectedview Criteria: If the value DisableAttachmentsInPV is REG_DWORD = 0, this is not a finding.

Fix: F-46081r716961_fix

Set the policy value for User Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Word 2013 -> 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 disabled.
SC-18 - Medium - CCI-001170 - V-242850 - SV-242850r961092_rule
RMF Control
SC-18
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-001170
Version
DTOO302
Vuln IDs
  • V-242850
  • V-17811
Rule IDs
  • SV-242850r961092_rule
  • SV-53584
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-46125r716963_chk

Verify the policy value for User Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Word 2013 -> Word Options -> Advanced "Update automatic links at Open" is set to "Disabled". Procedure: Use the Windows Registry Editor to navigate to the following key: HKCU\Software\Policies\Microsoft\Office\15.0\word\options Criteria: If the value DontUpdateLinks is REG_DWORD = 1, this is not a finding.

Fix: F-46082r716964_fix

Set the policy value for User Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Word 2013 -> 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-242851 - SV-242851r961863_rule
RMF Control
CM-6
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-000366
Version
DTOO303
Vuln IDs
  • V-242851
  • V-17813
Rule IDs
  • SV-242851r961863_rule
  • SV-53585
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 inserted.
Checks: C-46126r716966_chk

Verify the policy value for User Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Word 2013 -> Word Options -> Security "Warn before printing, saving or sending a file that contains tracked changes or comments" is set to "Enabled". Procedure: Use the Windows Registry Editor to navigate to the following key: HKCU\Software\Policies\Microsoft\Office\15.0\word\options Criteria: If the value WarnRevisions is REG_DWORD = 1, this is not a finding

Fix: F-46083r716967_fix

Set the policy value for User Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Word 2013 -> 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-242852 - SV-242852r960963_rule
RMF Control
CM-7
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-000381
Version
DTOO304
Vuln IDs
  • V-242852
  • V-17545
Rule IDs
  • SV-242852r960963_rule
  • SV-53586
When users open files containing VBA macros, applications open the files with the macros disabled and display 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-46127r716969_chk

NOTE: If VBA support is not installed, this check is Not Applicable. Verify the policy value for User Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Word 2013 -> Word Options -> Security -> Trust Center "VBA Macro Notification Settings" is set to "Enabled (Disable all with notification)". Procedure: Use the Windows Registry Editor to navigate to the following key: HKCU\Software\Policies\Microsoft\Office\15.0\word\security Criteria: If the value VBAWarnings is REG_DWORD = 2, this is not a finding.

Fix: F-46084r716970_fix

Set the policy value for User Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Word 2013 -> Word Options -> Security -> Trust Center "VBA Macro Notification Settings" to "Enabled (Disable all with notification)".

b
Online translation dictionaries must not be used.
SC-18 - Medium - CCI-001170 - V-242853 - SV-242853r961092_rule
RMF Control
SC-18
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-001170
Version
DTOO328
Vuln IDs
  • V-242853
  • V-26648
Rule IDs
  • SV-242853r961092_rule
  • SV-53588
This setting allows you to prevent online dictionaries from being used for the translation of text through the Research pane.
Checks: C-46128r716972_chk

Verify the policy value for User Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Word 2013 -> Miscellaneous -> "Use online translation dictionaries" is set to Disabled". Procedure: Use the Windows Registry Editor to navigate to the following key: HKCU\software\policies\Microsoft\office\15.0\common\research\translation Criteria: If the value useonline is REG_DWORD = 0, this is not a finding.

Fix: F-46085r716973_fix

Set the policy value for User Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Word 2013 -> Miscellaneous -> "Use online translation dictionaries" to "Disabled".

b
Word 2 and earlier binary documents and templates must be blocked for open/save.
SC-18 - Medium - CCI-001662 - V-242854 - SV-242854r961086_rule
RMF Control
SC-18
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-001662
Version
DTOO333
Vuln IDs
  • V-242854
  • V-26653
Rule IDs
  • SV-242854r961086_rule
  • SV-53590
This setting specifies whether users can open, view, edit, or save Word files saved in the specified format. Enabling block of the specified format mitigates zero-day security attacks (which are attacks that occur during between the time that a vulnerability becomes publicly known and a software update or service pack is available) by temporarily preventing users from opening specific types of files and to prevent a user from opening files that have been saved in earlier and pre-release (beta) Microsoft Office formats.
Checks: C-46129r716975_chk

Verify the policy value for User Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Word 2013 -> Word Options -> Security -> Trust Center -> File Block Settings "Word 2 and earlier binary documents and templates" is set to "Enabled: Open/Save blocked, use open policy". Procedure: Use the Windows Registry Editor to navigate to the following key: HKCU\Software\Policies\Microsoft\Office\15.0\word\security\fileblock Criteria: If the value Word2Files is REG_DWORD = 2, this is not a finding.

Fix: F-46086r717001_fix

Set the policy value for User Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Word 2013 -> 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-242855 - SV-242855r961086_rule
RMF Control
SC-18
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-001662
Version
DTOO334
Vuln IDs
  • V-242855
  • V-26654
Rule IDs
  • SV-242855r961086_rule
  • SV-53591
This setting specifies whether users can open, view, edit, or save files saved in the specified format. Enabling the editing of the specified format in protected view, it mitigates zero-day security attacks (which are attacks that occur during between the time that a vulnerability becomes publicly known and a software update or service pack is available) by temporarily preventing users from opening specific types of files and to prevent a user from opening files that have been saved in earlier and pre-release (beta) Microsoft Office formats.
Checks: C-46130r716978_chk

Verify the policy value for User Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Word 2013 -> Word Options -> Security -> Trust Center -> File Block Settings "Word 2000 binary documents and templates" is set to "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\15.0\word\security\fileblock Criteria: If the value Word2000Files is REG_DWORD = 5, this is not a finding.

Fix: F-46087r717003_fix

Set the policy value for User Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Word 2013 -> 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-242856 - SV-242856r961086_rule
RMF Control
SC-18
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-001662
Version
DTOO336
Vuln IDs
  • V-242856
  • V-26656
Rule IDs
  • SV-242856r961086_rule
  • SV-53593
This setting specifies whether users can open, view, edit, or save Word files saved in the specified format. Enabling block of the specified format mitigates zero-day security attacks (which are attacks that occur during between the time that a vulnerability becomes publicly known and a software update or service pack is available) by temporarily preventing users from opening specific types of files and to prevent a user from opening files that have been saved in earlier and pre-release (beta) Microsoft Office formats.
Checks: C-46131r716981_chk

Verify the policy value for User Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Word 2013 -> Word Options -> Security -> Trust Center -> File Block Settings "Word 6.0 binary documents and templates" is set to "Enabled: Open/Save blocked, use open policy". Procedure: Use the Windows Registry Editor to navigate to the following key: HKCU\Software\Policies\Microsoft\Office\15.0\word\security\fileblock Criteria: If the value Word60Files is REG_DWORD = 2, this is not a finding.

Fix: F-46088r716982_fix

Set the policy value for User Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Word 2013 -> 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-242857 - SV-242857r961086_rule
RMF Control
SC-18
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-001662
Version
DTOO337
Vuln IDs
  • V-242857
  • V-26657
Rule IDs
  • SV-242857r961086_rule
  • SV-53594
This setting specifies whether users can open, view, edit, or save files saved in the specified format. Enabling the editing of the specified format in protected view, it mitigates zero-day security attacks (which are attacks that occur during between the time that a vulnerability becomes publicly known and a software update or service pack is available) by temporarily preventing users from opening specific types of files and to prevent a user from opening files that have been saved in earlier and pre-release (beta) Microsoft Office formats.
Checks: C-46132r716984_chk

Verify the policy value for User Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Word 2013 -> Word Options -> Security -> Trust Center -> File Block Settings "Word 95 binary documents and templates" is set to "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\15.0\word\security\fileblock Criteria: If the value Word95Files is REG_DWORD = 5, this is not a finding.

Fix: F-46089r717005_fix

Set the policy value for User Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Word 2013 -> 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-242858 - SV-242858r961086_rule
RMF Control
SC-18
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-001662
Version
DTOO338
Vuln IDs
  • V-242858
  • V-26658
Rule IDs
  • SV-242858r961086_rule
  • SV-53595
This setting specifies whether users can open, view, edit, or save files saved in the specified format. Enabling the editing of the specified format in protected view, it mitigates zero-day security attacks (which are attacks that occur during between the time that a vulnerability becomes publicly known and a software update or service pack is available) by temporarily preventing users from opening specific types of files and to prevent a user from opening files that have been saved in earlier and pre-release (beta) Microsoft Office formats.
Checks: C-46133r716987_chk

Verify the policy value for User Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Word 2013 -> Word Options -> Security -> Trust Center -> File Block Settings "Word 97 binary documents and templates" is set to "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\15.0\word\security\fileblock Criteria: If the value Word97Files is REG_DWORD = 5, this is not a finding.

Fix: F-46090r717007_fix

Set the policy value for User Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Word 2013 -> 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-242859 - SV-242859r961086_rule
RMF Control
SC-18
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-001662
Version
DTOO339
Vuln IDs
  • V-242859
  • V-26659
Rule IDs
  • SV-242859r961086_rule
  • SV-55922
This setting specifies whether users can open, view, edit, or save files saved in the specified format. Enabling the editing of the specified format in protected view, it mitigates zero-day security attacks (which are attacks that occur during between the time that a vulnerability becomes publicly known and a software update or service pack is available) by temporarily preventing users from opening specific types of files and to prevent a user from opening files that have been saved in earlier and pre-release (beta) Microsoft Office formats.
Checks: C-46134r716990_chk

Verify the policy value for User Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Word 2013 -> Word Options -> Security -> Trust Center -> File Block Settings "Word XP binary documents and templates" is set to "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\15.0\word\security\fileblock Criteria: If the value WordXPFiles is REG_DWORD = 5, this is not a finding.

Fix: F-46091r717009_fix

Set the policy value for User Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Word 2013 -> Word Options -> Security -> Trust Center -> File Block Settings "Word XP binary documents and templates" to "Enabled: Allow editing and open in Protected View".

b
Word must be configured to warn when opening a document with custom XML markup.
CM-6 - Medium - CCI-000366 - V-242860 - SV-242860r961863_rule
RMF Control
CM-6
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-000366
Version
DTOO426
Vuln IDs
  • V-242860
  • V-41147
Rule IDs
  • SV-242860r961863_rule
  • SV-53598
This policy setting specifies how Word behaves when opening a document that contains custom XML markup. Versions of Word that are distributed by Microsoft after January 10, 2010 no longer read the custom XML markup that may be contained within (.docx, .docm, .dotx, .dotm or .xml files. The new versions of Word 2007, Word 2010, and Word 2013 can still open these files, but any custom XML markup is removed. Configuring this setting will prompt the user with a warning, notifying of the lost of the XML markup. While this is the default setting, explicitly configuring the setting will ensure users are prompted.
Checks: C-46135r716993_chk

Verify the policy value for User Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Word 2013 -> Word Options -> Advanced -> "Custom markup warning" is set to "Enabled: Prompt". Procedure: Use the Windows Registry Editor to navigate to the following key: HKCU\Software\Policies\Microsoft\Office\15.0\word\options Criteria: If the value custommarkupwarning is REG_DWORD = 1, this is not a finding.

Fix: F-46092r716994_fix

Set the policy value for User Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Word 2013 -> Word Options -> Advanced -> "Custom markup warning" to "Enabled: Prompt".

b
Macros must be blocked from running in Office 2013 files from the Internet.
SC-18 - Medium - CCI-001170 - V-242861 - SV-242861r961092_rule
RMF Control
SC-18
Severity
Medium
CCI
CCI-001170
Version
DTOO600
Vuln IDs
  • V-242861
  • V-72829
Rule IDs
  • SV-242861r961092_rule
  • SV-87481
This policy setting allows you to block macros from running in Office files that come from the Internet. If you enable this policy setting, macros are blocked from running, even if 'Enable all macro's is selected in the Macro Settings section of the Trust Center. Also, instead of having the choice to 'Enable Content', users will receive a notification that macros are blocked from running. If the Office file is saved to a trusted location or was previously trusted by the user, macros will be allowed to run. If you disable or don't configure this policy setting, the settings configured in the Macro Settings section of the Trust Center determine whether macros run in Office files that come from the Internet.
Checks: C-46136r716996_chk

Verify the policy value for User Configuration >> Administrative Templates >> Microsoft Word 2013 >> Word Options >> Security >> Trust Center "Block macros from running in Office files from the Internet" is set to "Enabled". Use the Windows Registry Editor to navigate to the following key: HKCU\Software\Policies\Microsoft\Office\15.0\word\security If the value "blockcontentexecutionfrominternet" is REG_DWORD = 1, this is not a finding.

Fix: F-46093r716997_fix

Set the policy value for User Configuration >> Administrative Templates >> Microsoft Word 2013 >> Word Options >> Security >> Trust Center "Block macros from running in Office files from the Internet" to "Enabled".

c
The version of Microsoft Word running on the system must be a supported version.
SI-2 - High - CCI-002605 - V-265902 - SV-265902r999910_rule
RMF Control
SI-2
Severity
High
CCI
CCI-002605
Version
DTOO999-Word13
Vuln IDs
  • V-265902
Rule IDs
  • SV-265902r999910_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-69821r999908_chk

Microsoft Word 2013 is no longer supported by the vendor. If the system is running Microsoft Word 2013, this is a finding.

Fix: F-69725r999909_fix

Upgrade to a supported version.