Title

Ubuntu OS must implement NIST FIPS-validated cryptography. (Cat I impact)

Discussion

Use of weak or untested encryption algorithms undermines the purposes of utilizing encryption to protect data. The operating system must implement cryptographic modules adhering to the higher standards approved by the federal government since this provides assurance they have been tested and validated. Satisfies: SRG-OS-000396-GPOS-00176, SRG-OS-000478-GPOS-00223, SRG-OS-000112-GPOS-00057, SRG-OS-000113-GPOS-00058

Check Content

Verify the system is configured to run in FIPS mode by using the following command: $ grep -i 1 /proc/sys/crypto/fips_enabled 1 If a value of "1" is not returned, this is a finding.

Fix Text

Configure Ubuntu OS to run in FIPS mode. Add "fips=1" to the kernel parameter during Ubuntu OS install. Enabling a FIPS mode on a pre-existing system involves a number of modifications to Ubuntu OS. Refer to the Ubuntu Pro security certification documentation for instructions. A subscription to the Ubuntu Pro plan is required to obtain the FIPS Kernel cryptographic modules and enable FIPS. Note: Ubuntu Pro security certification instructions can be found at: https://ubuntu.com/security/certifications/docs/fips-enablement.

Additional Identifiers

Rule ID: SV-275735r1148255_rule

Vulnerability ID: V-275735

Group Title: SRG-OS-000396-GPOS-00176

Expert Comments

CCIs tied to check.

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