Check: AOSX-12-000606
Apple OS X 10.12 STIG:
AOSX-12-000606
(in versions v1 r6 through v1 r1)
Title
The OS X system must not use unencrypted FTP. (Cat I impact)
Discussion
The "ftp" service must be disabled as it sends all data in a clear-text form that can be easily intercepted and read. The data needs to be protected at all times during transmission, and encryption is the standard method for protecting data in transit. If the data is not encrypted during transmission, it can be plainly read (i.e., clear text) and easily compromised. Disabling ftp is one way to mitigate this risk. Administrators should be instructed to use an alternate service for data transmission that uses encryption, such as SFTP.
Check Content
To check if the "ftp" service is disabled, use the following command: /usr/bin/sudo /bin/launchctl print-disabled system | /usr/bin/grep com.apple.ftpd If the results do not show the following, this is a finding: "com.apple.ftpd" => true
Fix Text
To disable the "ftp" service, run the following command: /usr/bin/sudo /bin/launchctl disable system/com.apple.ftpd The system may need to be restarted for the update to take effect.
Additional Identifiers
Rule ID: SV-90771r1_rule
Vulnerability ID: V-76083
Group Title: SRG-OS-000074-GPOS-00042
Expert Comments
CCIs
Number | Definition |
---|---|
CCI-000197 |
The information system, for password-based authentication, transmits only cryptographically-protected passwords. |
Controls
Number | Title |
---|---|
IA-5 (1) |
Password-Based Authentication |