Check: CISC-ND-001200
Cisco NX OS Switch NDM STIG:
CISC-ND-001200
(in versions v2 r8 through v2 r6)
Title
The Cisco switch must be configured to use FIPS-validated Keyed-Hash Message Authentication Code (HMAC) to protect the integrity of remote maintenance sessions. (Cat I impact)
Discussion
Unapproved mechanisms used for authentication to the cryptographic module are not verified; therefore, they cannot be relied upon to provide confidentiality or integrity, and DOD data may be compromised. Nonlocal maintenance and diagnostic activities are those activities conducted by individuals communicating through a network, either an external network (e.g., the internet) or an internal network. Currently, HMAC is the only FIPS-approved algorithm for generating and verifying message/data authentication codes in accordance with FIPS 198-1. Products that are FIPS 140-2 validated will have an HMAC that meets specification; however, the option must be configured for use as the only message authentication code used for authentication to cryptographic modules. Separate requirements for configuring applications and protocols used by each application (e.g., SNMPv3, SSHv2, NTP, HTTPS, and other protocols and applications that require server/client authentication) are required to implement this requirement. Where SSH is used, the SSHv2 protocol suite is required because it includes Layer 7 protocols such as SCP and SFTP, which can be used for secure file transfers.
Check Content
Verify that FIPS mode is enabled as shown in the example below: show fips status Note: Cisco NX-OS software supports only SSH version 2 (SSHv2). Beginning in Cisco NX-OS Release 5.1, SSH runs in FIPS mode. Source: Cisco Nexus 7000 Series NX-OS Security Configuration Guide, Release 6.x. If the switch is not configured to use FIPS-validated HMAC to protect the integrity of remote maintenance sessions, this is a finding.
Fix Text
Enable FIPS mode via the command "fips mode enable". Note: The switch will require a reboot for FIPS mode to be enabled.
Additional Identifiers
Rule ID: SV-220503r929034_rule
Vulnerability ID: V-220503
Group Title: SRG-APP-000411-NDM-000330
Expert Comments
CCIs
Number | Definition |
---|---|
CCI-002890 |
The information system implements cryptographic mechanisms to protect the integrity of nonlocal maintenance and diagnostic communications. |
Controls
Number | Title |
---|---|
MA-4 (6) |
Cryptographic Protection |