Title

The Ubuntu operating system must enforce a 60-day maximum password lifetime restriction. Passwords for new users must have a 60-day maximum password lifetime restriction. (Cat III impact)

Discussion

Any password, no matter how complex, can eventually be cracked. Therefore, passwords need to be changed periodically. If the operating system does not limit the lifetime of passwords and force users to change their passwords, there is the risk that the operating system passwords could be compromised.

Check Content

Verify that the Ubuntu operating system enforces a 60-day maximum password lifetime for new user accounts by running the following command: # grep -i pass_max_days /etc/login.defs PASS_MAX_DAYS 60 If the "PASS_MAX_DAYS" parameter value is less than 60, or commented out, this is a finding.

Fix Text

Configure the Ubuntu operating system to enforce a 60-day maximum password lifetime. Add, or modify the following line in the "/etc/login.defs" file: PASS_MAX_DAYS 60

Additional Identifiers

Rule ID: SV-219179r610963_rule

Vulnerability ID: V-219179

Group Title: SRG-OS-000076-GPOS-00044

Expert Comments

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