Title

The operating system must employ a deny-all, permit-by-exception policy to allow the execution of authorized software programs. (Cat II impact)

Discussion

Utilizing a whitelist provides a configuration management method for allowing the execution of only authorized software. Using only authorized software decreases risk by limiting the number of potential vulnerabilities. The organization must identify authorized software programs and permit execution of authorized software. The process used to identify software programs that are authorized to execute on organizational information systems is commonly referred to as whitelisting. Verification of white-listed software occurs prior to execution or at system startup. This requirement applies to operating system programs, functions, and services designed to manage system processes and configurations (e.g., group policies).

Check Content

Verify the operating system employs a deny-all, permit-by-exception policy to allow the execution of authorized software programs. If it does not, this is a finding.

Fix Text

Configure the operating system to employ a deny-all, permit-by-exception policy to allow the execution of authorized software programs.

Additional Identifiers

Rule ID: SV-203722r958808_rule

Vulnerability ID: V-203722

Group Title: SRG-OS-000370

Expert Comments

CCIs tied to check.

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