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Check: GEN001400

VMware ESX 3 Server: GEN001400 (in version v1 r2)

Title

The /etc/shadow (or equivalent) file must be owned by root. (Cat II impact)

Discussion

The /etc/shadow file contains the list of local system accounts. It is vital to system security and must be protected from unauthorized modification. Failure to give ownership of sensitive files or utilities to root or bin provides the designated owner and unauthorized users with the potential to access sensitive information or change the system configuration which could weaken the system's security posture.

Check Content

Check the ownership of the /etc/shadow file. # ls -lL /etc/shadow If the /etc/shadow file is not owned by root, this is a finding.

Fix Text

Change the ownership of the /etc/shadow (or equivalent) file. # chown root <file>

Additional Identifiers

Rule ID: SV-797r2_rule

Vulnerability ID: V-797

Group Title: GEN001400

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