Title

Apple iOS must require a valid password be successfully entered before the mobile device data is unencrypted. (Cat I impact)

Discussion

Passwords provide a form of access control that prevents unauthorized individuals from accessing computing resources and sensitive data. Passwords may also be a source of entropy for generation of key encryption or data encryption keys. If a password is not required to access data, then this data is accessible to any adversary who obtains physical possession of the device. Requiring that a password be successfully entered before the mobile device data is unencrypted mitigates this risk. Note: MDF PP v.2.0 requires a Password Authentication Factor and requires management of its length and complexity. It leaves open whether the existence of a password is subject to management. This STIGID addresses the configuration to require a password, which is critical to the cybersecurity posture of the device. SFR ID: FIA_UAU_EXT.1.1

Check Content

Review configuration settings to confirm the device is set to require a passcode before use. This procedure is performed on the iOS device. On the Apple iOS device: 1. Lock the device. 2. Wait the duration of the “Grace Lock” period. 3. Attempt to unlock the device. 4. Verify the unlock screen cannot be bypassed without entering a passcode. If the unlock screen can be bypassed without entering a passcode, this is a finding.

Fix Text

Install a Configuration Profile to require a password to unlock the device.

Additional Identifiers

Rule ID:

Vulnerability ID: V-61893

Group Title:

Expert Comments

CCIs tied to check.

Controls tied to check. These are derived from the CCIs shown above.