Title

Microsoft Defender AV must enable the file hash computation feature. (Cat II impact)

Discussion

This policy drives the ability to enforce Indicators of Compromise (IoC) by using file hash allow/block indicators.

Check Content

Verify the policy value for Computer Configuration >> Administrative Templates >> Windows Components >> Microsoft Defender Antivirus >> MpEngine >> Enable file hash computation feature is set to "Enabled"; otherwise, this is a finding. Procedure: Use the Windows Registry Editor to navigate to the following key: HKLM\Software\Policies\Microsoft\Windows Defender\MpEngine Criteria: If the value "EnableFileHashComputation" is REG_DWORD = 1, this is not a finding. If the value is 0, this is a finding.

Fix Text

Set the policy value for Computer Configuration >> Administrative Templates >> Windows Components >> Microsoft Defender Antivirus >> MpEngine >>Enable file hash computation feature to "Enabled". Click "OK". Click "Apply".

Additional Identifiers

Rule ID: SV-278661r1144059_rule

Vulnerability ID: V-278661

Group Title: SRG-APP-000210

Expert Comments

CCIs tied to check.

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