Title

The VPN Gateway must use a FIPS-validated cryptographic module to generate cryptographic hashes. (Cat II impact)

Discussion

FIPS 140-2 precludes the use of invalidated cryptography for the cryptographic protection of sensitive or valuable data within Federal systems. Unvalidated cryptography is viewed by NIST as providing no protection to the information or data. In effect, the data would be considered unprotected plain text. If the agency specifies that the information or data be cryptographically protected, then FIPS 140-2 is applicable. In essence, if cryptography is required, it must be validated. Cryptographic modules that have been approved for classified use may be used in lieu of modules that have been validated against the FIPS 140-2 standard. The cryptographic module used must have at least one validated hash algorithm. This validated hash algorithm must be used to generate cryptographic hashes for all cryptographic security function within the product being evaluated.

Check Content

Verify the VPN Gateway uses a FIPS-validated cryptographic module to generate cryptographic hashes. If the VPN Gateway does not use a FIPS-validated cryptographic module to generate cryptographic hashes, this is a finding.

Fix Text

Configure the VPN Gateway to use a FIPS-validated cryptographic module to generate cryptographic hashes.

Additional Identifiers

Rule ID: SV-207249r856722_rule

Vulnerability ID: V-207249

Group Title: SRG-NET-000510

Expert Comments

CCIs tied to check.

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