Title

The Recycle Bin on a server must be configured to immediately delete files. (Cat III impact)

Discussion

The Recycle Bin saves a copy of a file when it is deleted. A deleted file may contain sensitive data, subjecting that data to potential exposure.

Check Content

If the following registry value does not exist or is not configured as specified, this is a finding: Registry Hive: HKEY_CURRENT_USER Registry Path: \Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\Explorer\ Value Name: NoRecycleFiles Type: REG_DWORD Value: 1 If this is configured in the Recycle Bin Properties instead of through a policy verify the following: Right Click the Recycle Bin and select Properties. Select each Recycle Bin Location. Verify that "Do not move files to the Recycle Bin. Remove files immediately when deleted." is selected. If any of the drives are not configured to delete files immediately, this is a finding.

Fix Text

Configure the policy value for User Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Windows Components -> Windows Explorer -> "Do not move deleted files to the Recycle Bin" to "Enabled". Or Select "Do not move files to the Recycle Bin. Remove files immediately when deleted." for each volume in the Recycle Bin Properties.

Additional Identifiers

Rule ID: SV-16948r2_rule

Vulnerability ID: V-1126

Group Title: Recycle Bin Configuration

Expert Comments

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