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Check: GEN001367

SUSE Linux Enterprise Server v11 for System z STIG: GEN001367 (in versions v1 r12 through v1 r9)

Title

The /etc/hosts file must be group-owned by root, bin, sys or system. (Cat II impact)

Discussion

The /etc/hosts file (or equivalent) configures local host name to IP address mappings that typically take precedence over DNS resolution. If this file is maliciously modified, it could cause the failure or compromise of security functions requiring name resolution, which may include time synchronization, centralized authentication, and remote system logging.

Check Content

Check the /etc/hosts file's group ownership. Procedure: # ls -lL /etc/hosts If the file is not group-owned by root, bin, sys, or system, this is a finding.

Fix Text

Change the group-owner of the /etc/hosts file to root, sys, bin, or system. Procedure: # chgrp root /etc/hosts

Additional Identifiers

Rule ID: SV-44982r1_rule

Vulnerability ID: V-22324

Group Title: GEN001367

Expert Comments

Expert comments are only available to logged-in users.

CCIs

CCIs tied to check.

Number	Definition
CCI-000225	The organization employs the concept of least privilege, allowing only authorized accesses for users (and processes acting on behalf of users) which are necessary to accomplish assigned tasks in accordance with organizational missions and business functions.

Controls

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

Number	Title
AC-6	Least Privilege