Check: RHEL-09-611150
RHEL 9 STIG:
RHEL-09-611150
(in versions v1 r3 through v1 r1)
Title
RHEL 9 shadow password suite must be configured to use a sufficient number of hashing rounds. (Cat II impact)
Discussion
Passwords need to be protected at all times, and encryption is the standard method for protecting passwords. If passwords are not encrypted, they can be plainly read (i.e., clear text) and easily compromised. Passwords that are encrypted with a weak algorithm are no more protected than if they are kept in plain text. Using more hashing rounds makes password cracking attacks more difficult. Satisfies: SRG-OS-000073-GPOS-00041, SRG-OS-000120-GPOS-00061
Check Content
Verify that RHEL 9 has a minimum number of hash rounds configured with the following command: $ grep -i sha_crypt /etc/login.defs If "SHA_CRYPT_MIN_ROUNDS" or "SHA_CRYPT_MAX_ROUNDS" is less than "5000", this is a finding.
Fix Text
Configure RHEL 9 to encrypt all stored passwords with a strong cryptographic hash. Edit/modify the following line in the "/etc/login.defs" file and set "SHA_CRYPT_MIN_ROUNDS" to a value no lower than "5000": SHA_CRYPT_MIN_ROUNDS 5000
Additional Identifiers
Rule ID: SV-258119r926344_rule
Vulnerability ID: V-258119
Group Title: SRG-OS-000073-GPOS-00041
Expert Comments
CCIs
| Number | Definition |
|---|---|
| CCI-000196 |
The information system, for password-based authentication, stores only cryptographically-protected passwords. |
| CCI-000803 |
The information system implements mechanisms for authentication to a cryptographic module that meet the requirements of applicable federal laws, Executive Orders, directives, policies, regulations, standards, and guidance for such authentication. |