Title

AIX administrative accounts must not run a web browser, except as needed for local service administration. (Cat II impact)

Discussion

If a web browser flaw is exploited while running as a privileged user, the entire system could be compromised. Specific exceptions for local service administration should be documented in site-defined policy. These exceptions may include HTTP(S)-based tools used for the administration of the local system, services, or attached devices. Examples of possible exceptions are HP’s System Management Homepage (SMH), the CUPS administrative interface, and Sun's StorageTek Common Array Manager (CAM) when these services are running on the local system.

Check Content

Inspect the root account home directory for a ".netscape" or a ".mozilla" directory using the following commands: # find /root -name .netscape # find /root -name .mozilla If none exists, this is not a finding. If a file exists, verify with the root users and the ISSO the intent of the browsing. If a file exists and use of a web browser has not been authorized, this is a finding.

Fix Text

Enforce policy requiring administrative accounts use web browsers only for local service administration.

Additional Identifiers

Rule ID: SV-215191r991589_rule

Vulnerability ID: V-215191

Group Title: SRG-OS-000480-GPOS-00227

Expert Comments

CCIs tied to check.

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