Title

Apple iOS must not allow passwords that include more than two repeating or sequential characters. (Cat III impact)

Discussion

Password strength is a measure of the effectiveness of a password in resisting guessing and brute force attacks. Passwords that contain repeating or sequential characters are significantly easier to guess than those that do not contain repeating or sequential characters. Therefore, disallowing repeating or sequential characters increases password strength and decreases risk. SFR ID: FMT_SMF_EXT.1.1 #01b

Check Content

Review configuration settings to confirm that simple passcodes are not allowed. This check procedure is performed on both the Apple iOS management tool and the Apple iOS device. Note: If an organization has multiple configuration profiles, then the check procedure must be performed on the relevant configuration profiles applicable to the scope of the review. In the Apple iOS management tool, verify the "Allow simple value" is unchecked. Alternatively, verify the text "<key>allowSimple</key> <false/>" appears in the configuration profile (.mobileconfig file). On the Apple iOS device: 1. Open the Settings app. 2. Tap "General". 3. Tap "Profiles" or "Profiles & Device Management" or "Device Management". 4. Tap the Configuration Profile from the iOS management tool containing the password policy. 5. Tap "Restrictions". 6. Tap "Passcode". 7. Verify "Simple passcodes allowed" is not listed. If "Allow simple value" is checked in the Apple iOS management tool, "<key>allowSimple</key> <true/>" appears in the config profile, or the password policy on the Apple iOS device from the Apple iOS management tool lists "Simple passcodes allowed Yes", this is a finding.

Fix Text

Install a Configuration Profile to disallow more than 2 sequential or repeating numbers or letters in the device unlock password.

Additional Identifiers

Rule ID:

Vulnerability ID: V-61895

Group Title:

Expert Comments

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