Microsoft Windows Server 2012/2012 R2 Domain Controller STIG

Microsoft Windows Server 2012/2012 R2 Domain Controller Security Technical Implementation Guide. Version v3 r6, released May 11, 2023.

WN12-CC-000058: The system must be configured to prevent unsolicited remote assistance offers.

Discussion

Remote assistance allows another user to view or take control of the local session of a user. Unsolicited remote assistance is help that is offered by the remote user. This may allow unauthorized parties access to the resources on the computer.

Fix

Configure the policy value for Computer Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> System -> Remote Assistance -> "Configure Offer Remote Assistance" to "Disabled".

Rating Info

DISA Cat II. NIST impact 3.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226174r569184_rule'

Configure the policy value for Computer Configuration >> Windows Settings >> Security Settings >> Local Policies >> Security Options >> "Interactive Logon: Message text for users attempting to log on" to the following: You are accessing a U.S. Government (USG) Information System (IS) that is provided for USG-authorized use only. By using this IS (which includes any device attached to this IS), you consent to the following conditions: -The USG routinely intercepts and monitors communications on this IS for purposes including, but not limited to, penetration testing, COMSEC monitoring, network operations and defense, personnel misconduct (PM), law enforcement (LE), and counterintelligence (CI) investigations. -At any time, the USG may inspect and seize data stored on this IS. -Communications using, or data stored on, this IS are not private, are subject to routine monitoring, interception, and search, and may be disclosed or used for any USG-authorized purpose. -This IS includes security measures (e.g., authentication and access controls) to protect USG interests--not for your personal benefit or privacy. -Notwithstanding the above, using this IS does not constitute consent to PM, LE or CI investigative searching or monitoring of the content of privileged communications, or work product, related to personal representation or services by attorneys, psychotherapists, or clergy, and their assistants. Such communications and work product are private and confidential. See User Agreement for details.

Rating Info

DISA Cat II. NIST impact 3.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226288r569184_rule'

WN12-SO-000012: Outgoing secure channel traffic must be encrypted or signed.

Discussion

Requests sent on the secure channel are authenticated, and sensitive information (such as passwords) is encrypted, but not all information is encrypted. If this policy is enabled, outgoing secure channel traffic will be encrypted and signed.

Fix

Configure the policy value for Computer Configuration -> Windows Settings -> Security Settings -> Local Policies -> Security Options -> "Domain member: Digitally encrypt or sign secure channel data (always)" to "Enabled".

Rating Info

DISA Cat II. NIST impact 3.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226279r569184_rule'

Maintain the default permissions for the program file directories and configure the Security Option: "Network access: Let everyone permissions apply to anonymous users" to "Disabled" (V-3377). Default Permissions: \Program Files and \Program Files (x86) Type - "Allow" for all Inherited from - "None" for all Principal - Access - Applies to TrustedInstaller - Full control - This folder and subfolders SYSTEM - Modify - This folder only SYSTEM - Full control - Subfolders and files only Administrators - Modify - This folder only Administrators - Full control - Subfolders and files only Users - Read & execute - This folder, subfolders and files CREATOR OWNER - Full control - Subfolders and files only ALL APPLICATION PACKAGES - Read & execute - This folder, subfolders and files

Rating Info

DISA Cat II. NIST impact 3.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226241r569184_rule'

Install an anti-virus solution on the system.

Rating Info

DISA Cat I. NIST impact 4.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226048r569184_rule'

WN12-SO-000030: Unencrypted passwords must not be sent to third-party SMB Servers.

Discussion

Some non-Microsoft SMB servers only support unencrypted (plain text) password authentication. Sending plain text passwords across the network, when authenticating to an SMB server, reduces the overall security of the environment. Check with the vendor of the SMB server to see if there is a way to support encrypted password authentication.

Fix

Configure the policy value for Computer Configuration >> Windows Settings >> Security Settings >> Local Policies >> Security Options >> "Microsoft Network Client: Send unencrypted password to third-party SMB servers" to "Disabled".

Rating Info

DISA Cat II. NIST impact 3.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226295r569184_rule'

WN12-RG-000002: Standard user accounts must only have Read permissions to the Active Setup\Installed Components registry key.

Run "Regedit". Navigate to the following registry keys and review the permissions: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Active Setup\Installed Components\ HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Wow6432Node\Microsoft\Active Setup\Installed Components\ (64-bit systems) If the default permissions listed below have been changed, this is a finding. Users - Read Administrators - Full Control SYSTEM - Full Control CREATOR OWNER - Full Control (Subkeys only) ALL APPLICATION PACKAGES - Read

Discussion

Permissions on the Active Setup\Installed Components registry key must only allow privileged accounts to add or change registry values. If standard user accounts have these permissions, there is a potential for programs to run with elevated privileges when a privileged user logs on to the system.

Fix

Maintain the default permissions of the following registry keys: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Active Setup\Installed Components\ HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Wow6432Node\Microsoft\Active Setup\Installed Components\ (64-bit systems only) Users - Read Administrators - Full Control SYSTEM - Full Control CREATOR OWNER - Full Control (Subkeys only) ALL APPLICATION PACKAGES - Read

Rating Info

DISA Cat I. NIST impact 4.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226269r569184_rule'

WN12-SO-000062: NTLM must be prevented from falling back to a Null session.

Discussion

NTLM sessions that are allowed to fall back to Null (unauthenticated) sessions may gain unauthorized access.

Fix

Configure the policy value for Computer Configuration -> Windows Settings -> Security Settings -> Local Policies -> Security Options -> "Network security: Allow LocalSystem NULL session fallback" to "Disabled".

Rating Info

DISA Cat II. NIST impact 3.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226325r569184_rule'

WN12-SV-000106: The Smart Card Removal Policy service must be configured to automatic.

Verify the Smart Card Removal Policy service is configured to "Automatic". Run "Services.msc". If the Startup Type for Smart Card Removal Policy is not set to Automatic, this is a finding.

Discussion

The automatic start of the Smart Card Removal Policy service is required to support the smart card removal behavior requirement.

Fix

Configure the Startup Type for the Smart Card Removal Policy service to "Automatic".

Rating Info

DISA Cat II. NIST impact 3.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226358r569184_rule'

WN12-CC-000051: Local users on domain-joined computers must not be enumerated.

Discussion

The username is one part of logon credentials that could be used to gain access to a system. Preventing the enumeration of users limits this information to authorized personnel.

Fix

Configure the policy value for Computer Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> System -> Logon -> "Enumerate local users on domain-joined computers" to "Disabled".

Rating Info

DISA Cat II. NIST impact 3.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226170r569184_rule'

WN12-GE-000027: File Transfer Protocol (FTP) servers must be configured to prevent access to the system drive.

If FTP is not installed on the system, this is NA. Determine the IP address and port number assigned to FTP sites from documentation or configuration. If Microsoft FTP is used, open "Internet Information Services (IIS) Manager". Select "Sites" under the server name. For any sites that reference FTP, view the Binding information for IP address and port. The standard port for FTP is 21, however this may be changed. Open a "Command Prompt". Access the FTP site and review accessible directories with the following commands: Note: Returned results may vary depending on the FTP server software. C:\> "ftp" ftp> "Open IP Address Port" (Substituting [IP Address] and [Port] with the information previously identified. If no IP Address was listed in the Binding, attempt using "localhost".) (Connected to IP Address 220 Microsoft FTP Service) User (IP Address): "FTP User" (Substituting [FTP User] with an account identified that is allowed access. If it was determined that anonymous access was allowed to the site [see V-1120], also review access using "anonymous".) (331 Password required) Password: "Password" (Substituting [Password] with password for the account attempting access.) (230 User ftpuser logged in.) ftp> "Dir" If the FTP session indicates access to areas of the system other than the specific folder for FTP data, such as the root of the drive, Program Files or Windows directories, this is a finding.

Discussion

The FTP service allows remote users to access shared files and directories. Access outside of the specific directories of shared data could provide access to system resources and compromise the system.

Fix

Configure the system to only allow FTP access to specific folders containing the data to be available through the service.

Rating Info

DISA Cat I. NIST impact 4.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226258r569184_rule'

WN12-CC-000038: The Internet File Association service must be turned off.

WN12-CC-000032: Downloading print driver packages over HTTP must be prevented.

Discussion

Some features may communicate with the vendor, sending system information or downloading data or components for the feature. Turning off this capability will prevent potentially sensitive information from being sent outside the enterprise and uncontrolled updates to the system. This setting prevents the computer from downloading print driver packages over HTTP.

Old Rule ID 'SV-226060r569184_rule'

WN12-UR-000015: The Create symbolic links user right must only be assigned to the Administrators group.

Discussion

Inappropriate granting of user rights can provide system, administrative, and other high-level capabilities. Accounts with the "Create symbolic links" user right can create pointers to other objects, which could potentially expose the system to attack.

Fix

Configure the policy value for Computer Configuration >> Windows Settings >> Security Settings >> Local Policies >> User Rights Assignment >> "Create symbolic links" to only include the following accounts or groups: Administrators Systems that have the Hyper-V role will also have "Virtual Machines" given this user right. If this needs to be added manually, enter it as "NT Virtual Machine\Virtual Machines".

Rating Info

DISA Cat II. NIST impact 3.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226379r569184_rule'

WN12-SO-000047: IPv6 TCP data retransmissions must be configured to prevent resources from becoming exhausted.

Discussion

Configuring Windows to limit the number of times that IPv6 TCP retransmits unacknowledged data segments before aborting the attempt helps prevent resources from becoming exhausted.

Fix

Configure the policy value for Computer Configuration >> Windows Settings >> Security Settings >> Local Policies >> Security Options >> "MSS: (TcpMaxDataRetransmissions IPv6) How many times unacknowledged data is retransmitted (3 recommended, 5 is default)" to "3" or less. (See "Updating the Windows Security Options File" in the STIG Overview document if MSS settings are not visible in the system's policy tools.)

Rating Info

DISA Cat III. NIST impact 2.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226311r569184_rule'

Configure the policy value for Computer Configuration >> Windows Settings >> Security Settings >> Local Policies >> User Rights Assignment >> "Perform volume maintenance tasks" to only include the following accounts or groups: Administrators

Rating Info

DISA Cat II. NIST impact 3.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226395r569184_rule'

WN12-AU-000048: The system must be configured to audit Logon/Logoff - Logon failures.

Discussion

Maintaining an audit trail of system activity logs can help identify configuration errors, troubleshoot service disruptions, and analyze compromises that have occurred, as well as detect attacks. Audit logs are necessary to provide a trail of evidence in case the system or network is compromised. Collecting this data is essential for analyzing the security of information assets and detecting signs of suspicious and unexpected behavior. Logon records user logons. If this is an interactive logon, it is recorded on the local system. If it is to a network share, it is recorded on the system accessed.

Fix

Configure the policy value for Computer Configuration -> Windows Settings -> Security Settings -> Advanced Audit Policy Configuration -> System Audit Policies -> Logon/Logoff -> "Audit Logon" with "Failure" selected.

Rating Info

DISA Cat II. NIST impact 3.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226101r569184_rule'

WN12-CC-000002: The Responder network protocol driver must be disabled.

If the following registry values do not exist or are not configured as specified, this is a finding: Registry Hive: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE Registry Path: \Software\Policies\Microsoft\Windows\LLTD\ Value Name: AllowRspndrOndomain Value Name: AllowRspndrOnPublicNet Value Name: EnableRspndr Value Name: ProhibitRspndrOnPrivateNet Type: REG_DWORD Value: 0

Discussion

The Responder network protocol driver allows a computer to be discovered and located on a network. Disabling this helps protect the system from potentially being discovered and connected to by unauthorized devices.

Fix

Configure the policy value for Computer Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Network -> Link-Layer Topology Discovery -> "Turn on Responder (RSPNDR) driver" to "Disabled".

Rating Info

DISA Cat II. NIST impact 3.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226136r569184_rule'

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226219r569184_rule'

WN12-SO-000024: Caching of logon credentials must be limited.

If the system is not a member of a domain, this is NA. If the following registry value does not exist or is not configured as specified, this is a finding: Registry Hive: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE Registry Path: \SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\Winlogon\ Value Name: CachedLogonsCount Value Type: REG_SZ Value: 4 (or less)

Discussion

The default Windows configuration caches the last logon credentials for users who log on interactively to a system. This feature is provided for system availability reasons, such as the user's machine being disconnected from the network or domain controllers being unavailable. Even though the credential cache is well-protected, if a system is attacked, an unauthorized individual may isolate the password to a domain user account using a password-cracking program and gain access to the domain.

Fix

If the system is not a member of a domain, this is NA. Configure the policy value for Computer Configuration >> Windows Settings >> Security Settings >> Local Policies >> Security Options >> "Interactive Logon: Number of previous logons to cache (in case Domain Controller is not available)" to "4" logons or less.

Rating Info

DISA Cat III. NIST impact 2.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226290r569184_rule'

WN12-UC-000003: The screen saver must be password protected.

Discussion

Unattended systems are susceptible to unauthorized use and must be locked when unattended. Enabling a password-protected screen saver to engage after a specified period of time helps protects critical and sensitive data from exposure to unauthorized personnel with physical access to the computer.

Fix

Configure the policy value for User Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Control Panel -> Personalization -> "Password protect the screen saver" to "Enabled".

Rating Info

DISA Cat II. NIST impact 3.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226360r569184_rule'

WN12-AC-000008: The built-in Windows password complexity policy must be enabled.

Verify the effective setting in Local Group Policy Editor. Run "gpedit.msc". Navigate to Local Computer Policy >> Computer Configuration >> Windows Settings >> Security Settings >> Account Policies >> Password Policy. If the value for "Password must meet complexity requirements" is not set to "Enabled", this is a finding. Note: If an external password filter is in use that enforces all 4 character types and requires this setting be set to "Disabled", this would not be considered a finding. If this setting does not affect the use of an external password filter, it must be enabled for fallback purposes.

Discussion

The use of complex passwords increases their strength against attack. The built-in Windows password complexity policy requires passwords to contain at least 3 of the 4 types of characters (numbers, upper- and lower-case letters, and special characters), as well as preventing the inclusion of user names or parts of.

Fix

Configure the policy value for Computer Configuration >> Windows Settings -> Security Settings >> Account Policies >> Password Policy >> "Password must meet complexity requirements" to "Enabled".

Rating Info

DISA Cat II. NIST impact 3.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226063r569184_rule'

WN12-CC-000039: Printing over HTTP must be prevented.

Discussion

Some features may communicate with the vendor, sending system information or downloading data or components for the feature. Turning off this capability will prevent potentially sensitive information from being sent outside the enterprise and uncontrolled updates to the system. This setting prevents the client computer from printing over HTTP, which allows the computer to print to printers on the intranet as well as the Internet.

Fix

Rating Info

DISA Cat II. NIST impact 3.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226166r569184_rule'

WN12-CC-000066: Microsoft Support Diagnostic Tool (MSDT) interactive communication with Microsoft must be prevented.

Discussion

Some features may communicate with the vendor, sending system information or downloading data or components for the feature. Turning off this capability will prevent potentially sensitive information from being sent outside the enterprise and uncontrolled updates to the system. This setting prevents the MSDT from communicating with and sending collected data to Microsoft, the default support provider.

Fix

Configure the policy value for Computer Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> System -> Troubleshooting and Diagnostics -> Microsoft Support Diagnostic Tool -> "Microsoft Support Diagnostic Tool: Turn on MSDT interactive communication with support provider" to "Disabled".

Rating Info

DISA Cat III. NIST impact 2.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226178r569184_rule'

WN12-AU-000203-01: Audit records must be backed up onto a different system or media than the system being audited.

WN12-00-000200: Windows PowerShell must be updated to a version that supports script block logging on Windows 2012/2012 R2.

Open "Windows PowerShell". Enter "$PSVersionTable". If the value for "PSVersion" is not 4.0 or 5.x, this is a finding. Windows 2012 R2 includes PowerShell 4.0 by default. Windows 2012 must be updated. If PowerShell 4.0 is used, the required patch for script block logging will be verified with the requirement to have that enabled.

Discussion

Later versions of Windows PowerShell provide additional security and advanced logging features that can provide greater detail when malware has been run on a system. PowerShell 5.x includes the advanced logging features. PowerShell 4.0 with the addition of patch KB3000850 on Windows 2012 R2 or KB3119938 on Windows 2012 adds advanced logging features. PowerShell is updated with the installation of the corresponding version of the Windows Management Framework (WMF). Updating to a later PowerShell version may have compatibility issues with some applications. The following links should be reviewed and updates tested before applying to a production environment. WMF 4.0: Review the System Requirements under the download link - https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/download/details.aspx?id=40855 WMF 5.0: https://docs.microsoft.com/en-us/powershell/wmf/5.0/productincompat WMF 5.1: https://docs.microsoft.com/en-us/powershell/wmf/5.1/productincompat

Fix

Update Windows PowerShell to version 4.0 or 5.x. Windows 2012 R2 includes PowerShell 4.0 by default. It may be updated with the installation of Windows Management Framework (WMF) 5.0 or 5.1. Windows 2012 requires the installation of WMF 4.0, 5.0, or 5.1. Updating to a later PowerShell version may have compatibility issues with some applications. The following links should be reviewed and updates tested before applying to a production environment. WMF 4.0: Review the System Requirements under the download link - https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/download/details.aspx?id=40855 WMF 5.0: https://docs.microsoft.com/en-us/powershell/wmf/5.0/productincompat WMF 5.1: https://docs.microsoft.com/en-us/powershell/wmf/5.1/productincompat

Rating Info

DISA Cat II. NIST impact 3.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226053r569184_rule'

WN12-CC-000132: Users must be prevented from mapping local COM ports and redirecting data from the Remote Desktop Session Host to local COM ports. (Remote Desktop Services Role).

Discussion

Preventing the redirection of Remote Desktop session data to a client computer's COM ports helps reduce possible exposure of sensitive data.

Fix

Configure the policy value for Computer Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Windows Components -> Remote Desktop Services -> Remote Desktop Session Host -> Device and Resource Redirection -> "Do not allow COM port redirection" to "Enabled".

Rating Info

DISA Cat II. NIST impact 3.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226224r569184_rule'

WN12-UR-000019-DC: The Deny log on as a service user right must be configured to include no accounts or groups (blank) on domain controllers.

Verify the effective setting in Local Group Policy Editor. Run "gpedit.msc". Navigate to Local Computer Policy -> Computer Configuration -> Windows Settings -> Security Settings -> Local Policies -> User Rights Assignment. If any accounts or groups are defined for the "Deny log on as a service" user right, this is a finding.

Discussion

Inappropriate granting of user rights can provide system, administrative, and other high-level capabilities. The "Deny log on as a service" user right defines accounts that are denied log on as a service. Incorrect configurations could prevent services from starting and result in a DoS.

Fix

Configure the policy value for Computer Configuration -> Windows Settings -> Security Settings -> Local Policies -> User Rights Assignment -> "Deny log on as a service" to include no entries (blank).

Rating Info

DISA Cat II. NIST impact 3.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226383r569184_rule'

WN12-CC-000135: Users must be prevented from redirecting Plug and Play devices to the Remote Desktop Session Host. (Remote Desktop Services Role).

Discussion

Preventing the redirection of Plug and Play devices in Remote Desktop sessions helps reduce possible exposure of sensitive data.

Fix

Rating Info

DISA Cat II. NIST impact 3.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226227r569184_rule'

WN12-UR-000032: The Manage auditing and security log user right must only be assigned to the Administrators group.

Verify the effective setting in Local Group Policy Editor. Run "gpedit.msc". Navigate to Local Computer Policy >> Computer Configuration >> Windows Settings >> Security Settings >> Local Policies >> User Rights Assignment. If any accounts or groups other than the following are granted the "Manage auditing and security log" user right, this is a finding: Administrators If the organization has an Auditors group, the assignment of this group to the user right would not be a finding. If an application requires this user right, this would not be a finding. Vendor documentation must support the requirement for having the user right. The requirement must be documented with the ISSO. The application account must meet requirements for application account passwords, such as length (WN12-00-000010) and required frequency of changes (WN12-00-000011).

Discussion

Inappropriate granting of user rights can provide system, administrative, and other high-level capabilities. Accounts with the "Manage auditing and security log" user right can manage the security log and change auditing configurations. This could be used to clear evidence of tampering.

Fix

Configure the policy value for Computer Configuration >> Windows Settings >> Security Settings >> Local Policies >> User Rights Assignment >> "Manage auditing and security log" to only include the following accounts or groups: Administrators

Rating Info

DISA Cat II. NIST impact 3.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226393r569184_rule'

WN12-SO-000076: The default permissions of global system objects must be increased.

Discussion

Windows systems maintain a global list of shared system resources such as DOS device names, mutexes, and semaphores. Each type of object is created with a default DACL that specifies who can access the objects with what permissions. If this policy is enabled, the default DACL is stronger, allowing nonadministrative users to read shared objects, but not modify shared objects that they did not create.

Fix

Configure the policy value for Computer Configuration -> Windows Settings -> Security Settings -> Local Policies -> Security Options -> "System objects: Strengthen default permissions of internal system objects (e.g. Symbolic Links)" to "Enabled".

Rating Info

DISA Cat III. NIST impact 2.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226337r569184_rule'

WN12-00-000210: PowerShell script block logging must be enabled on Windows 2012/2012 R2.

If the following registry value does not exist or is not configured as specified, this is a finding. Registry Hive: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE Registry Path: \SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft\Windows\PowerShell\ScriptBlockLogging\ Value Name: EnableScriptBlockLogging Value Type: REG_DWORD Value: 0x00000001 (1) PowerShell 4.0 requires the installation of patch KB3000850 on Windows 2012 R2 or KB3119938 on Windows 2012. If the patch is not installed on systems with PowerShell 4.0, this is a finding. PowerShell 5.x does not require the installation of an additional patch.

Discussion

Maintaining an audit trail of system activity logs can help identify configuration errors, troubleshoot service disruptions, and analyze compromises that have occurred, as well as detect attacks. Audit logs are necessary to provide a trail of evidence in case the system or network is compromised. Collecting this data is essential for analyzing the security of information assets and detecting signs of suspicious and unexpected behavior. Enabling PowerShell script block logging will record detailed information from the processing of PowerShell commands and scripts. This can provide additional detail when malware has run on a system. PowerShell 5.x supports script block logging. PowerShell 4.0 with the addition of patch KB3000850 on Windows 2012 R2 or KB3119938 on Windows 2012 adds support for script block logging. Satisfies: SRG-OS-000042-GPOS-00021

Fix

Configure the following registry value as specified. Registry Hive: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE Registry Path: \SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft\Windows\PowerShell\ScriptBlockLogging\ Value Name: EnableScriptBlockLogging Value Type: REG_DWORD Value: 0x00000001 (1) Administrative templates from later versions of Windows include a group policy setting for this. Configure the policy value for Computer Configuration >> Administrative Templates >> Windows Components >> Windows PowerShell >> "Turn on PowerShell Script Block Logging" to "Enabled". Install patch KB3000850 on Windows 2012 R2 or KB3119938 on Windows 2012 on systems with PowerShell 4.0. PowerShell 5.x does not require the installation of an additional patch.

Rating Info

DISA Cat II. NIST impact 3.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226054r569184_rule'

WN12-SO-000045: The system must be configured to use Safe DLL Search Mode.

Discussion

The default search behavior, when an application calls a function in a Dynamic Link Library (DLL), is to search the current directory, followed by the directories contained in the system's path environment variable. An unauthorized DLL, inserted into an application's working directory, could allow malicious code to be run on the system. Setting this policy value forces the system to search the %Systemroot% for the DLL before searching the current directory or the rest of the path.

Fix

Configure the policy value for Computer Configuration -> Windows Settings -> Security Settings -> Local Policies -> Security Options -> "MSS: (SafeDllSearchMode) Enable Safe DLL search mode (recommended)" to "Enabled". (See "Updating the Windows Security Options File" in the STIG Overview document if MSS settings are not visible in the system's policy tools.)

Rating Info

DISA Cat II. NIST impact 3.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226309r569184_rule'

WN12-AD-000010-DC: Windows services that are critical for directory server operation must be configured for automatic startup.

Run "services.msc" to display the Services console. Verify the Startup Type for the following Windows services: - Active Directory Domain Services - DFS Replication - DNS Client - DNS server - Group Policy Client - Intersite Messaging - Kerberos Key Distribution Center - NetLogon - Windows Time (not required if another time synchronization tool is implemented to start automatically) If the Startup Type for any of these services is not Automatic, this is a finding.

Discussion

Active Directory (AD) is dependent on several Windows services. If one or more of these services is not configured for automatic startup, AD functions may be partially or completely unavailable until the services are manually started. This could result in a failure to replicate data or to support client authentication and authorization requests.

Fix

Ensure the following services that are critical for directory server operation are configured for automatic startup. - Active Directory Domain Services - DFS Replication - DNS Client - DNS server - Group Policy Client - Intersite Messaging - Kerberos Key Distribution Center - NetLogon - Windows Time (not required if another time synchronization tool is implemented to start automatically)

Rating Info

DISA Cat II. NIST impact 3.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226079r569184_rule'

WN12-CC-000116: The Windows Installer Always install with elevated privileges option must be disabled.

Discussion

User Account Control (UAC) is a security mechanism for limiting the elevation of privileges, including administrative accounts, unless authorized. This setting configures Windows to only allow applications installed in a secure location on the file system, such as the Program Files or the Windows\System32 folders, to run with elevated privileges.

Configure the policy value for Computer Configuration -> Windows Settings -> Security Settings -> Local Policies -> Security Options -> "Network security: Allow Local System to use computer identity for NTLM" to "Enabled".

Rating Info

DISA Cat II. NIST impact 3.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226324r569184_rule'

WN12-GE-000016: Windows 2012/2012 R2 passwords must be configured to expire.

WN12-CC-000047: Windows must be prevented from using Windows Update to search for drivers.

Discussion

Some features may communicate with the vendor, sending system information or downloading data or components for the feature. Turning off this capability will prevent potentially sensitive information from being sent outside the enterprise and uncontrolled updates to the system. This setting prevents Windows from searching Windows Update for device drivers when no local drivers for a device are present.

Fix

Rating Info

DISA Cat II. NIST impact 3.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226168r569184_rule'

WN12-CC-000088: Windows SmartScreen must be enabled on Windows 2012/2012 R2.

This is applicable to unclassified systems; for other systems, this is NA. If the following registry value does not exist or is not configured as specified, this is a finding: Registry Hive: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE Registry Path: \SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft\Windows\System\ Value Name: EnableSmartScreen Type: REG_DWORD Value: 0x00000001 (1) (Give user a warning…) Or 0x00000002 (2) (Require approval…)

Discussion

Windows SmartScreen helps protect systems from programs downloaded from the Internet that may be malicious. Warning a user before running downloaded unknown software, at minimum, will help prevent potentially malicious programs from executing.

Old Rule ID 'SV-226186r569184_rule'

WN12-AU-000060: The system must be configured to audit Object Access - Central Access Policy Staging failures.

Install a host-based Intrusion Detection System on each server.

Rating Info

DISA Cat II. NIST impact 3.

Expert Comment

None

WN12-SO-000080: User Account Control must be configured to detect application installations and prompt for elevation.

Discussion

User Account Control (UAC) is a security mechanism for limiting the elevation of privileges, including administrative accounts, unless authorized. This setting requires Windows to respond to application installation requests by prompting for credentials.

Fix

Rating Info

DISA Cat II. NIST impact 3.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226341r569184_rule'

WN12-UR-000042: The Take ownership of files or other objects user right must only be assigned to the Administrators group.

Verify the effective setting in Local Group Policy Editor. Run "gpedit.msc". Navigate to Local Computer Policy >> Computer Configuration >> Windows Settings >> Security Settings >> Local Policies >> User Rights Assignment. If any accounts or groups other than the following are granted the "Take ownership of files or other objects" user right, this is a finding: Administrators If an application requires this user right, this would not be a finding. Vendor documentation must support the requirement for having the user right. The requirement must be documented with the ISSO. The application account must meet requirements for application account passwords, such as length (WN12-00-000010) and required frequency of changes (WN12-00-000011).

Discussion

Inappropriate granting of user rights can provide system, administrative, and other high-level capabilities. Accounts with the "Take ownership of files or other objects" user right can take ownership of objects and make changes.

Fix

Configure the policy value for Computer Configuration >> Windows Settings >> Security Settings >> Local Policies >> User Rights Assignment >> "Take ownership of files or other objects" to only include the following accounts or groups: Administrators

Rating Info

DISA Cat II. NIST impact 3.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226398r569184_rule'

WN12-SO-000038: The system must be configured to prevent IP source routing.

Discussion

Configuring the system to disable IP source routing protects against spoofing.

Fix

Configure the policy value for Computer Configuration -> Windows Settings -> Security Settings -> Local Policies -> Security Options -> "MSS: (DisableIPSourceRouting) IP source routing protection level (protects against packet spoofing)" to "Highest protection, source routing is completely disabled". (See "Updating the Windows Security Options File" in the STIG Overview document if MSS settings are not visible in the system's policy tools.)

Rating Info

DISA Cat III. NIST impact 2.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226303r569184_rule'

WN12-CC-000068: Responsiveness events must be prevented from being aggregated and sent to Microsoft.

If the following registry value does not exist or is not configured as specified, this is a finding: Registry Hive: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE Registry Path: \Software\Policies\Microsoft\Windows\WDI\{9c5a40da-b965-4fc3-8781-88dd50a6299d}\ Value Name: ScenarioExecutionEnabled Type: REG_DWORD Value: 0

Discussion

Some features may communicate with the vendor, sending system information or downloading data or components for the feature. Turning off this capability will prevent potentially sensitive information from being sent outside the enterprise and uncontrolled updates to the system. This setting prevents responsiveness events from being aggregated and sent to Microsoft.

Fix

Configure the policy value for Computer Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> System -> Troubleshooting and Diagnostics -> Windows Performance PerfTrack -> "Enable/Disable PerfTrack" to "Disabled".

Rating Info

DISA Cat III. NIST impact 2.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226180r569184_rule'

WN12-CC-000130: The Remote Desktop Session Host must require secure RPC communications.

Discussion

Allowing unsecure RPC communication exposes the system to man-in-the-middle attacks and data disclosure attacks. A man-in-the-middle attack occurs when an intruder captures packets between a client and server and modifies them before allowing the packets to be exchanged. Usually the attacker will modify the information in the packets in an attempt to cause either the client or server to reveal sensitive information.

Fix

Rating Info

DISA Cat II. NIST impact 3.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226222r569184_rule'

If the \Windows\WinStore directory exists, configure the policy value for Computer Configuration >> Administrative Templates >> System >> Internet Communication Management >> Internet Communication settings >> "Turn off access to the Store" to "Enabled". Alternately, uninstall the "Desktop Experience" feature from Windows 2012. This is located under "User Interfaces and Infrastructure" in the "Add Roles and Features Wizard". The \Windows\WinStore directory may need to be manually deleted after this.

Rating Info

DISA Cat II. NIST impact 3.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226161r569184_rule'

WN12-SO-000067: The LanMan authentication level must be set to send NTLMv2 response only, and to refuse LM and NTLM.

Discussion

The Kerberos v5 authentication protocol is the default for authentication of users who are logging on to domain accounts. NTLM, which is less secure, is retained in later Windows versions for compatibility with clients and servers that are running earlier versions of Windows or applications that still use it. It is also used to authenticate logons to stand-alone computers that are running later versions.

Fix

Configure the policy value for Computer Configuration -> Windows Settings -> Security Settings -> Local Policies -> Security Options -> "Network security: LAN Manager authentication level" to "Send NTLMv2 response only. Refuse LM & NTLM".

Rating Info

DISA Cat I. NIST impact 4.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226330r569184_rule'

WN12-UR-000021-DC: The Deny log on through Remote Desktop Services user right on domain controllers must be configured to prevent unauthenticated access.

Verify the effective setting in Local Group Policy Editor. Run "gpedit.msc". Navigate to Local Computer Policy -> Computer Configuration -> Windows Settings -> Security Settings -> Local Policies -> User Rights Assignment. If the following accounts or groups are not defined for the "Deny log on through Remote Desktop Services" user right, this is a finding: Guests Group

Discussion

Inappropriate granting of user rights can provide system, administrative, and other high-level capabilities. The "Deny log on through Remote Desktop Services" user right defines the accounts that are prevented from logging on using Remote Desktop Services. The Guests group must be assigned this right to prevent unauthenticated access.

Fix

Configure the policy value for Computer Configuration -> Windows Settings -> Security Settings -> Local Policies -> User Rights Assignment -> "Deny log on through Remote Desktop Services" to include the following: Guests Group

Rating Info

DISA Cat II. NIST impact 3.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226385r569184_rule'

WN12-SO-000058: Anonymous access to Named Pipes and Shares must be restricted.

Discussion

Allowing anonymous access to named pipes or shares provides the potential for unauthorized system access. This setting restricts access to those defined in "Network access: Named Pipes that can be accessed anonymously" and "Network access: Shares that can be accessed anonymously", both of which must be blank under other requirements.

Fix

Configure the policy value for Computer Configuration -> Windows Settings -> Security Settings -> Local Policies -> Security Options -> "Network access: Restrict anonymous access to Named Pipes and Shares" to "Enabled".

Rating Info

DISA Cat I. NIST impact 4.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226321r569184_rule'

WN12-00-000004: Users with administrative privilege must be documented.

Review the necessary documentation that identifies the members of the Administrators group. If a list of all users belonging to the Administrators group is not maintained with the ISSO, this is a finding.

Discussion

Administrative accounts may perform any action on a system. Users with administrative accounts must be documented to ensure those with this level of access are clearly identified.

Fix

Create the necessary documentation that identifies the members of the Administrators group.

Rating Info

DISA Cat II. NIST impact 3.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226030r569184_rule'

Obtain a server certificate for the domain controller.

Rating Info

DISA Cat II. NIST impact 3.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226264r569184_rule'

When the audit log reaches a given percent full, an audit event is written to the security log. It is recorded as a successful audit event under the category of System. This option may be especially useful if the audit logs are set to be cleared manually.

Fix

Configure the policy value for Computer Configuration -> Windows Settings -> Security Settings -> Local Policies -> Security Options -> "MSS: (WarningLevel) Percentage threshold for the security event log at which the system will generate a warning" to "90" or less. (See "Updating the Windows Security Options File" in the STIG Overview document if MSS settings are not visible in the system's policy tools.)

Rating Info

DISA Cat III. NIST impact 2.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226313r569184_rule'

WN12-AU-000107: The system must be configured to audit System - Security State Change successes.

Discussion

Fix

Rating Info

DISA Cat II. NIST impact 3.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226117r569184_rule'

WN12-AU-000059: The system must be configured to audit Object Access - Central Access Policy Staging successes.

Discussion

Maintaining an audit trail of system activity logs can help identify configuration errors, troubleshoot service disruptions, and analyze compromises that have occurred, as well as detect attacks. Audit logs are necessary to provide a trail of evidence in case the system or network is compromised. Collecting this data is essential for analyzing the security of information assets and detecting signs of suspicious and unexpected behavior. Central Access Policy Staging auditing under Object Access is used to enable the recording of events related to differences in permissions between central access policies and proposed policies.

Fix

Rating Info

DISA Cat II. NIST impact 3.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226103r569184_rule'

Discussion

Anonymous access to network shares provides the potential for gaining unauthorized system access by network users. This could lead to the exposure or corruption of sensitive data.

Fix

Ensure the policy value for Computer Configuration -> Windows Settings -> Security Settings -> Local Policies -> Security Options -> "Network access: Shares that can be accessed anonymously" contains no entries (blank).

Rating Info

DISA Cat I. NIST impact 4.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226322r569184_rule'

WN12-UC-000008: Windows Help Ratings feedback must be turned off.

Discussion

Some features may communicate with the vendor, sending system information or downloading data or components for the feature. Turning off this capability will prevent potentially sensitive information from being sent outside the enterprise and uncontrolled updates to the system. This setting ensures users cannot provide ratings feedback to Microsoft for Help content.

Fix

Configure the policy value for User Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> System -> Internet Communication Management -> Internet Communication Settings -> "Turn off Help Ratings" to "Enabled".

Rating Info

DISA Cat II. NIST impact 3.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226364r569184_rule'

WN12-AU-000019: The system must be configured to audit Account Management - User Account Management successes.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226074r569184_rule'

WN12-CC-000090: Turning off File Explorer heap termination on corruption must be disabled.

Discussion

Legacy plug-in applications may continue to function when a File Explorer session has become corrupt. Disabling this feature will prevent this.

Fix

Configure the policy value for Computer Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Windows Components -> File Explorer -> "Turn off heap termination on corruption" to "Disabled".

Rating Info

DISA Cat III. NIST impact 2.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226196r569184_rule'

WN12-SO-000043: The system must be configured to ignore NetBIOS name release requests except from WINS servers.

Discussion

Configuring the system to ignore name release requests, except from WINS servers, prevents a denial of service (DoS) attack. The DoS consists of sending a NetBIOS name release request to the server for each entry in the server's cache, causing a response delay in the normal operation of the servers WINS resolution capability.

Fix

Configure the policy value for Computer Configuration >> Windows Settings >> Security Settings >> Local Policies >> Security Options >> "MSS: (NoNameReleaseOnDemand) Allow the computer to ignore NetBIOS name release requests except from WINS servers" to "Enabled". (See "Updating the Windows Security Options File" in the STIG Overview document if MSS settings are not visible in the system's policy tools.)

Rating Info

DISA Cat III. NIST impact 2.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226307r569184_rule'

WN12-UR-000012: The Create a token object user right must not be assigned to any groups or accounts.

Verify the effective setting in Local Group Policy Editor. Run "gpedit.msc". Navigate to Local Computer Policy >> Computer Configuration >> Windows Settings >> Security Settings >> Local Policies >> User Rights Assignment. If any accounts or groups are granted the "Create a token object" user right, this is a finding. If an application requires this user right, this would not be a finding. Vendor documentation must support the requirement for having the user right. The requirement must be documented with the ISSO. The application account must meet requirements for application account passwords, such as length (WN12-00-000010) and required frequency of changes (WN12-00-000011).

Discussion

Inappropriate granting of user rights can provide system, administrative, and other high-level capabilities. The "Create a token object" user right allows a process to create an access token. This could be used to provide elevated rights and compromise a system.

Fix

Configure the policy value for Computer Configuration >> Windows Settings >> Security Settings >> Local Policies >> User Rights Assignment >> "Create a token object" to be defined but containing no entries (blank).

Rating Info

DISA Cat I. NIST impact 4.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226376r569184_rule'

WN12-CC-000023: Windows must be prevented from sending an error report when a device driver requests additional software during installation.

Discussion

Some features may communicate with the vendor, sending system information or downloading data or components for the feature. Turning off this capability will prevent potentially sensitive information from being sent outside the enterprise and uncontrolled updates to the system. This setting will prevent Windows from sending an error report to Microsoft when a device driver requests additional software during installation.

Fix

Configure the policy value for Computer Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> System -> Device Installation -> "Prevent Windows from sending an error report when a device driver requests additional software during installation" to "Enabled".

Rating Info

DISA Cat III. NIST impact 2.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226154r569184_rule'

WN12-SO-000083: User Account Control must run all administrators in Admin Approval Mode, enabling UAC.

Discussion

User Account Control (UAC) is a security mechanism for limiting the elevation of privileges, including administrative accounts, unless authorized. This setting enables UAC. Satisfies: SRG-OS-000373-GPOS-00158

Fix

Rating Info

DISA Cat II. NIST impact 3.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226344r569184_rule'

WN12-UR-000003: The Act as part of the operating system user right must not be assigned to any groups or accounts.

Verify the effective setting in Local Group Policy Editor. Run "gpedit.msc". Navigate to Local Computer Policy >> Computer Configuration >> Windows Settings >> Security Settings >> Local Policies >> User Rights Assignment. If any accounts or groups (to include administrators), are granted the "Act as part of the operating system" user right, this is a finding. If an application requires this user right, this would not be a finding. Vendor documentation must support the requirement for having the user right. The requirement must be documented with the ISSO. The application account must meet requirements for application account passwords, such as length (WN12-00-000010) and required frequency of changes (WN12-00-000011).

Discussion

Inappropriate granting of user rights can provide system, administrative, and other high-level capabilities. Accounts with the "Act as part of the operating system" user right can assume the identity of any user and gain access to resources that user is authorized to access. Any accounts with this right can take complete control of a system.

Fix

Configure the policy value for Computer Configuration >> Windows Settings >> Security Settings >> Local Policies >> User Rights Assignment >> "Act as part of the operating system" to be defined but containing no entries (blank).

Rating Info

DISA Cat I. NIST impact 4.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226372r569184_rule'

WN12-CC-000110: The Windows Store application must be turned off.

Discussion

Uncontrolled installation of applications can introduce various issues, including system instability, and provide access to sensitive information. Installation of applications must be controlled by the enterprise. Turning off access to the Windows Store will limit access to publicly available applications.

Old Rule ID 'SV-226149r569184_rule'

WN12-UR-000025: The Impersonate a client after authentication user right must only be assigned to Administrators, Service, Local Service, and Network Service.

Verify the effective setting in Local Group Policy Editor. Run "gpedit.msc". Navigate to Local Computer Policy >> Computer Configuration >> Windows Settings >> Security Settings >> Local Policies >> User Rights Assignment. If any accounts or groups other than the following are granted the "Impersonate a client after authentication" user right, this is a finding: Administrators Service Local Service Network Service If an application requires this user right, this would not be a finding. Vendor documentation must support the requirement for having the user right. The requirement must be documented with the ISSO. The application account must meet requirements for application account passwords, such as length (WN12-00-000010) and required frequency of changes (WN12-00-000011).

Discussion

Inappropriate granting of user rights can provide system, administrative, and other high-level capabilities. The "Impersonate a client after authentication" user right allows a program to impersonate another user or account to run on their behalf. An attacker could potentially use this to elevate privileges.

Fix

Configure the policy value for Computer Configuration >> Windows Settings >> Security Settings >> Local Policies >> User Rights Assignment >> "Impersonate a client after authentication" to only include the following accounts or groups: Administrators Service Local Service Network Service

Rating Info

DISA Cat II. NIST impact 3.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226389r569184_rule'

WN12-SO-000004: Local accounts with blank passwords must be restricted to prevent access from the network.

Discussion

An account without a password can allow unauthorized access to a system as only the username would be required. Password policies should prevent accounts with blank passwords from existing on a system. However, if a local account with a blank password did exist, enabling this setting will prevent network access, limiting the account to local console logon only.

Fix

Configure the policy value for Computer Configuration -> Windows Settings -> Security Settings -> Local Policies -> Security Options -> "Accounts: Limit local account use of blank passwords to console logon only" to "Enabled".

Rating Info

DISA Cat I. NIST impact 4.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226272r569184_rule'

WN12-GE-000025: The system must query the certification authority to determine whether a public key certificate has been revoked before accepting the certificate for authentication purposes.

Verify the system has software installed and running that provides certificate validation and revocation checking. If it does not, this is a finding.

Discussion

Failure to verify a certificate's revocation status can result in the system accepting a revoked, and therefore unauthorized, certificate. This could result in the installation of unauthorized software or a connection for rogue networks, depending on the use for which the certificate is intended. Querying for certificate revocation mitigates the risk that the system will accept an unauthorized certificate.

Fix

Install software that provides certificate validation and revocation checking.

Rating Info

DISA Cat II. NIST impact 3.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226256r569184_rule'

WN12-SO-000028: The Windows SMB client must be configured to always perform SMB packet signing.

Discussion

The server message block (SMB) protocol provides the basis for many network operations. Digitally signed SMB packets aid in preventing man-in-the-middle attacks. If this policy is enabled, the SMB client will only communicate with an SMB server that performs SMB packet signing.

Fix

Configure the policy value for Computer Configuration -> Windows Settings -> Security Settings -> Local Policies -> Security Options -> "Microsoft network client: Digitally sign communications (always)" to "Enabled".

Rating Info

DISA Cat II. NIST impact 3.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226293r569184_rule'

WN12-GE-000006: Permissions for system drive root directory (usually C:\) must conform to minimum requirements.

The default permissions are adequate when the Security Option "Network access: Let everyone permissions apply to anonymous users" is set to "Disabled" (V-3377). If the default ACLs are maintained and the referenced option is set to "Disabled", this is not a finding. Verify the default permissions for the system drive's root directory (usually C:\). Nonprivileged groups such as Users or Authenticated Users must not have greater than Read & execute permissions except where noted as defaults. (Individual accounts must not be used to assign permissions.) Viewing in File Explorer: View the Properties of system drive root directory. Select the "Security" tab, and the "Advanced" button. C:\ Type - "Allow" for all Inherited from - "None" for all Principal - Access - Applies to SYSTEM - Full control - This folder, subfolders and files Administrators - Full control - This folder, subfolders and files Users - Read & execute - This folder, subfolders and files Users - Create folders / append data - This folder and subfolders Users - Create files / write data - Subfolders only CREATOR OWNER - Full Control - Subfolders and files only Alternately, use Icacls: Open a Command prompt (admin). Enter icacls followed by the directory: icacls c:\ The following results should be displayed: c:\ NT AUTHORITY\SYSTEM:(OI)(CI)(F) BUILTIN\Administrators:(OI)(CI)(F) BUILTIN\Users:(OI)(CI)(RX) BUILTIN\Users:(CI)(AD) BUILTIN\Users:(CI)(IO)(WD) CREATOR OWNER:(OI)(CI)(IO)(F) Successfully processed 1 files; Failed processing 0 files

Review audit logs on a predetermined scheduled.

Rating Info

DISA Cat II. NIST impact 3.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226121r569184_rule'

This requirement is applicable to domain controllers; it is NA for other systems. Open "Windows PowerShell". Enter "Get-ADUser krbtgt -Property PasswordLastSet". If the "PasswordLastSet" date is more than 180 days old, this is a finding.

Discussion

The krbtgt account acts as a service account for the Kerberos Key Distribution Center (KDC) service. The account and password are created when a domain is created and the password is typically not changed. If the krbtgt account is compromised, attackers can create valid Kerberos Ticket Granting Tickets (TGT). The password must be changed twice to effectively remove the password history.Changing once, waiting for replication to complete and the amount of time equal to or greater than the maximum Kerberos ticket lifetime, and changing again reduces the risk of issues.

Fix

Reset the password for the krbtgt account a least every 180 days. The password must be changed twice to effectively remove the password history. Changing once, waiting for replication to complete and changing again reduces the risk of issues. Changing twice in rapid succession forces clients to re-authenticate (including application services) but is desired if a compromise is suspected. PowerShell scripts are available to accomplish this such as at the following link: https://gallery.technet.microsoft.com/Reset-the-krbtgt-account-581a9e51 Open "Active Directory Users and Computers" (available from various menus or run "dsa.msc"). Select "Advanced Features" in the "View" menu if not previously selected. Select the "Users" node. Right click on the krbtgt account and select "Reset password". Enter a password that meets password complexity requirements. Clear the "User must change password at next logon" check box. The system will automatically change this to a system generated complex password.

Rating Info

DISA Cat II. NIST impact 3.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226084r569184_rule'

Configure the policy value for Computer Configuration -> Windows Settings -> Security Settings -> Account Policies -> Password Policy -> "Minimum password length" to "14" characters.

Rating Info

DISA Cat II. NIST impact 3.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226062r569184_rule'

WN12-CC-000099: Remote Desktop Services must always prompt a client for passwords upon connection.

Discussion

This setting controls the ability of users to supply passwords automatically as part of their remote desktop connection. Disabling this setting would allow anyone to use the stored credentials in a connection item to connect to the terminal server.

Fix

Configure the policy value for Computer Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Windows Components -> Remote Desktop Services -> Remote Desktop Session Host -> Security -> "Always prompt for password upon connection" to "Enabled".

Rating Info

DISA Cat II. NIST impact 3.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226201r569184_rule'

WN12-PK-000001: The DoD Root CA certificates must be installed in the Trusted Root Store.

Verify the DoD Root CA certificates are installed as Trusted Root Certification Authorities. The certificates and thumbprints referenced below apply to unclassified systems; see PKE documentation for other networks. Run "PowerShell" as an administrator. Execute the following command: Get-ChildItem -Path Cert:Localmachine\root | Where Subject -Like "*DoD*" | FL Subject, Thumbprint, NotAfter If the following certificate "Subject" and "Thumbprint" information is not displayed, this is a finding. Subject: CN=DoD Root CA 3, OU=PKI, OU=DoD, O=U.S. Government, C=US Thumbprint: D73CA91102A2204A36459ED32213B467D7CE97FB NotAfter: 12/30/2029 Subject: CN=DoD Root CA 4, OU=PKI, OU=DoD, O=U.S. Government, C=US Thumbprint: B8269F25DBD937ECAFD4C35A9838571723F2D026 NotAfter: 7/25/2032 Subject: CN=DoD Root CA 5, OU=PKI, OU=DoD, O=U.S. Government, C=US Thumbprint: 4ECB5CC3095670454DA1CBD410FC921F46B8564B NotAfter: 6/14/2041 Alternately, use the Certificates MMC snap-in: Run "MMC". Select "File", "Add/Remove Snap-in". Select "Certificates", click "Add". Select "Computer account", click "Next". Select "Local computer: (the computer this console is running on)", click "Finish". Click "OK". Expand "Certificates" and navigate to Trusted Root Certification Authorities >> Certificates. For each of the DoD Root CA certificates noted below: Right-click on the certificate and select "Open". Select the "Details" tab. Scroll to the bottom and select "Thumbprint". If the DoD Root CA certificates below are not listed or the value for the "Thumbprint" field is not as noted, this is a finding. DoD Root CA 3 Thumbprint: D73CA91102A2204A36459ED32213B467D7CE97FB Valid to: Sunday, December 30, 2029 DoD Root CA 4 Thumbprint: B8269F25DBD937ECAFD4C35A9838571723F2D026 Valid to: Sunday, July 25, 2032 DoD Root CA 5 Thumbprint: 4ECB5CC3095670454DA1CBD410FC921F46B8564B Valid to: Friday, June 14, 2041

Discussion

To ensure secure DoD websites and DoD-signed code are properly validated, the system must trust the DoD Root Certificate Authorities (CAs). The DoD root certificates will ensure that the trust chain is established for server certificates issued from the DoD CAs.

Fix

Install the DoD Root CA certificates: DoD Root CA 3 DoD Root CA 4 DoD Root CA 5 The InstallRoot tool is available on Cyber Exchange at https://cyber.mil/pki-pke/tools-configuration-files. PKI can be found at https://crl.gds.disa.mil/.

Rating Info

DISA Cat II. NIST impact 3.

Expert Comment

None

Configure the audit settings for Infrastructure object to include the following. Type - Fail Principal - Everyone Access - Full Control Inherited from - None The success types listed below are defaults. Where Special is listed in the summary screens for Access, detailed Permissions are provided for reference, various Properties selections may also exist by default. Type - Success Principal - Everyone Access - Special Inherited from - None (Access - Special = Permissions: Write all properties, All extended rights, Change infrastructure master) Two instances with the following summary information will be listed. Type - Success Principal - Everyone Access - (blank) Inherited from - (CN of domain)

Rating Info

DISA Cat II. NIST impact 3.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226130r569184_rule'

WN12-CC-000011: IP stateless autoconfiguration limits state must be enabled.

Discussion

IP stateless autoconfiguration could configure routes that circumvent preferred routes if not limited.

Fix

Configure the policy value for Computer Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Network -> TCPIP Settings -> Parameters -> "Set IP Stateless Autoconfiguration Limits State" to "Enabled".

Rating Info

DISA Cat III. NIST impact 2.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226145r569184_rule'

Rating Info

DISA Cat II. NIST impact 3.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226058r569184_rule'

WN12-SO-000032: The Windows SMB server must be configured to always perform SMB packet signing.

Discussion

The server message block (SMB) protocol provides the basis for many network operations. Digitally signed SMB packets aid in preventing man-in-the-middle attacks. If this policy is enabled, the SMB server will only communicate with an SMB client that performs SMB packet signing.

Fix

Configure the policy value for Computer Configuration -> Windows Settings -> Security Settings -> Local Policies -> Security Options -> "Microsoft network server: Digitally sign communications (always)" to "Enabled".

Rating Info

DISA Cat II. NIST impact 3.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226297r569184_rule'

WN12-CC-000059: Solicited Remote Assistance must not be allowed.

Discussion

Remote assistance allows another user to view or take control of the local session of a user. Solicited assistance is help that is specifically requested by the local user. This may allow unauthorized parties access to the resources on the computer.

Fix

Configure the policy value for Computer Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> System -> Remote Assistance -> "Configure Solicited Remote Assistance" to "Disabled".

Rating Info

DISA Cat I. NIST impact 4.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226175r569184_rule'

WN12-SO-000003: The built-in guest account must be disabled.

Verify the effective setting in Local Group Policy Editor. Run "gpedit.msc". Navigate to Local Computer Policy -> Computer Configuration -> Windows Settings -> Security Settings -> Local Policies -> Security Options. If the value for "Accounts: Guest account status" is not set to "Disabled", this is a finding.

Discussion

A system faces an increased vulnerability threat if the built-in guest account is not disabled. This account is a known account that exists on all Windows systems and cannot be deleted. This account is initialized during the installation of the operating system with no password assigned.

Fix

Configure the policy value for Computer Configuration -> Windows Settings -> Security Settings -> Local Policies -> Security Options -> "Accounts: Guest account status" to "Disabled".

Rating Info

DISA Cat II. NIST impact 3.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226271r569184_rule'

WN12-SO-000089: The print driver installation privilege must be restricted to administrators.

Fix

Rating Info

DISA Cat II. NIST impact 3.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226342r569184_rule'

WN12-AU-000203-02: The operating system must, at a minimum, off-load audit records of interconnected systems in real time and off-load standalone systems weekly.

Verify the operating system, at a minimum, off-loads audit records of interconnected systems in real time and off-loads standalone systems weekly. If it does not, this is a finding.

Discussion

Protection of log data includes assuring the log data is not accidentally lost or deleted. Audit information stored in one location is vulnerable to accidental or incidental deletion or alteration.

Fix

Configure the operating system to, at a minimum, off-load audit records of interconnected systems in real time and off-load standalone systems weekly.

Rating Info

DISA Cat II. NIST impact 3.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226124r569184_rule'

WN12-UR-000036: The Profile single process user right must only be assigned to the Administrators group.

Discussion

Inappropriate granting of user rights can provide system, administrative, and other high-level capabilities. Accounts with the "Profile single process" user right can monitor nonsystem processes performance. An attacker could potentially use this to identify processes to attack.

Fix

Configure the policy value for Computer Configuration >> Windows Settings >> Security Settings >> Local Policies >> User Rights Assignment >> "Profile single process" to only include the following accounts or groups: Administrators

Rating Info

DISA Cat II. NIST impact 3.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226396r569184_rule'

DISA Cat II. NIST impact 3.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226050r569184_rule'

WN12-CC-000098: Local drives must be prevented from sharing with Remote Desktop Session Hosts. (Remote Desktop Services Role).

Discussion

Preventing users from sharing the local drives on their client computers to Remote Session Hosts that they access helps reduce possible exposure of sensitive data.

Fix

Rating Info

DISA Cat II. NIST impact 3.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226200r569184_rule'

This policy setting determines whether the Kerberos Key Distribution Center (KDC) validates every request for a session ticket against the user rights policy of the target computer. The policy is enabled by default which is the most secure setting for validating access to target resources is not circumvented.

Old Rule ID 'SV-226190r569184_rule'

Remove emergency administrator accounts after a crisis has been resolved or configure the accounts to automatically expire within 72 hours. Domain accounts can be configured with an account expiration date, under "Account" properties. Local accounts can be configured to expire with the command "Net user [username] /expires:[mm/dd/yyyy]", where username is the name of the emergency administrator account.

Rating Info

DISA Cat II. NIST impact 3.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226260r569184_rule'

WN12-SO-000044: The system must be configured to disable the Internet Router Discovery Protocol (IRDP).

Unencrypted remote access to a system can allow sensitive information to be compromised. Windows remote management connections must be encrypted to prevent this.

Fix

Configure the policy value for Computer Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Windows Components -> Windows Remote Management (WinRM) -> WinRM Service -> "Allow unencrypted traffic" to "Disabled".

Rating Info

DISA Cat II. NIST impact 3.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226220r569184_rule'

WN12-AC-000009: Reversible password encryption must be disabled.

Verify the effective setting in Local Group Policy Editor. Run "gpedit.msc". Navigate to Local Computer Policy -> Computer Configuration -> Windows Settings -> Security Settings -> Account Policies -> Password Policy. If the value for "Store password using reversible encryption" is not set to "Disabled", this is a finding.

Discussion

Storing passwords using reversible encryption is essentially the same as storing clear-text versions of the passwords. For this reason, this policy must never be enabled.

Fix

Configure the policy value for Computer Configuration -> Windows Settings -> Security Settings -> Account Policies -> Password Policy -> "Store password using reversible encryption" to "Disabled".

Rating Info

DISA Cat I. NIST impact 4.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226064r569184_rule'

WN12-SO-000011: Ejection of removable NTFS media must be restricted to Administrators.

Discussion

Removable hard drives, if they are not properly configured, can be formatted and ejected by users who are not members of the Administrators Group. Formatting and ejecting removable NTFS media must only be done by administrators.

Fix

Configure the policy value for Computer Configuration -> Windows Settings -> Security Settings -> Local Policies -> Security Options -> "Devices: Allowed to format and eject removable media" to "Administrators".

Rating Info

DISA Cat II. NIST impact 3.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226278r569184_rule'

Discussion

Peer-to-Peer applications can allow unauthorized access to a system and exposure of sensitive data. This setting will turn off the Microsoft Peer-to-Peer Networking Service.

Fix

Configure the policy value for Computer Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Network -> Microsoft Peer-to-Peer Networking Services -> "Turn off Microsoft Peer-to-Peer Networking Services" to "Enabled".

Rating Info

DISA Cat II. NIST impact 3.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226137r569184_rule'

WN12-CC-000133: Users must be prevented from mapping local LPT ports and redirecting data from the Remote Desktop Session Host to local LPT ports. (Remote Desktop Services Role).

Discussion

Preventing the redirection of Remote Desktop session data to a client computer's LPT ports helps reduce possible exposure of sensitive data.

Fix

Rating Info

DISA Cat II. NIST impact 3.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226225r569184_rule'

WN12-SO-000048: The system must limit how many times unacknowledged TCP data is retransmitted.

Fix

Rating Info

DISA Cat II. NIST impact 3.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226113r569184_rule'

WN12-CC-000033: Event Viewer Events.asp links must be turned off.

Discussion

Viewing events is a function of administrators, who must not access the internet with privileged accounts. This setting will disable Events.asp hyperlinks in Event Viewer to prevent links to the internet from within events.

Old Rule ID 'SV-226076r569184_rule'

WN12-CC-000006: All Direct Access traffic must be routed through the internal network.

Discussion

Routing all Direct Access traffic through the internal network allows monitoring and prevents split tunneling.

Fix

Configure the policy value for Computer Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Network -> Network Connections -> "Route all traffic through the internal network" to "Enabled: Enabled State".

Rating Info

DISA Cat III. NIST impact 2.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226140r569184_rule'

WN12-CC-000055: The user must be prompted to authenticate on resume from sleep (plugged in).

Discussion

Authentication must always be required when accessing a system. This setting ensures the user is prompted for a password on resume from sleep (plugged in).

Fix

Verify the effective setting in Local Group Policy Editor. Run "gpedit.msc". Navigate to Local Computer Policy -> Computer Configuration -> Windows Settings -> Security Settings -> Local Policies -> Security Options. If the value for "Accounts: Rename guest account" is not set to a value other than "Guest", this is a finding.

Discussion

The built-in guest account is a well-known user account on all Windows systems and, as initially installed, does not require a password. This can allow access to system resources by unauthorized users. Renaming this account to an unidentified name improves the protection of this account and the system.

Fix

Configure the policy value for Computer Configuration -> Windows Settings -> Security Settings -> Local Policies -> Security Options -> "Accounts: Rename guest account" to a name other than "Guest".

Old Rule ID 'SV-226351r569184_rule'

WN12-00-000016: Backups of system-level information must be protected.

Determine if system-level information backups are protected from destruction and stored in a physically secure location. If they are not, this is a finding.

Discussion

A system backup will usually include sensitive information such as user accounts that could be used in an attack. As a valuable system resource, the system backup must be protected and stored in a physically secure location.

Fix

Ensure system-level information backups are stored in a secure location and protected from destruction.

Rating Info

DISA Cat III. NIST impact 2.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226043r569184_rule'

WN12-AU-000045: The system must be configured to audit Logon/Logoff - Logoff successes.

Discussion

Maintaining an audit trail of system activity logs can help identify configuration errors, troubleshoot service disruptions, and analyze compromises that have occurred, as well as detect attacks. Audit logs are necessary to provide a trail of evidence in case the system or network is compromised. Collecting this data is essential for analyzing the security of information assets and detecting signs of suspicious and unexpected behavior. Logoff records user logoffs. If this is an interactive logoff, it is recorded on the local system. If it is to a network share, it is recorded on the system accessed.

Fix

Rating Info

DISA Cat II. NIST impact 3.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226099r569184_rule'

WN12-SO-000063: PKU2U authentication using online identities must be prevented.

Discussion

PKU2U is a peer-to-peer authentication protocol. This setting prevents online identities from authenticating to domain-joined systems. Authentication will be centrally managed with Windows user accounts.

Fix

Configure the policy value for Computer Configuration -> Windows Settings -> Security Settings -> Local Policies -> Security Options -> "Network security: Allow PKU2U authentication requests to this computer to use online identities" to "Disabled".

Rating Info

DISA Cat II. NIST impact 3.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226326r569184_rule'

WN12-SO-000073: The shutdown option must not be available from the logon dialog box.

Discussion

Displaying the shutdown button may allow individuals to shut down a system anonymously. Only authenticated users should be allowed to shut down the system. Preventing display of this button in the logon dialog box ensures that individuals who shut down the system are authorized and tracked in the system's Security event log.

Fix

Configure the policy value for Computer Configuration -> Windows Settings -> Security Settings -> Local Policies -> Security Options -> "Shutdown: Allow system to be shutdown without having to log on" to "Disabled".

Rating Info

DISA Cat III. NIST impact 2.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226334r569184_rule'

WN12-CC-000022: Device metadata retrieval from the Internet must be prevented.

If the following registry value does not exist or is not configured as specified, this is a finding: Registry Hive: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE Registry Path: \SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft\Windows\Device Metadata\ Value Name: PreventDeviceMetadataFromNetwork Value Type: REG_DWORD Value: 1

Discussion

Some features may communicate with the vendor, sending system information or downloading data or components for the feature. Turning off this capability will prevent potentially sensitive information from being sent outside the enterprise and uncontrolled updates to the system. This setting will prevent Windows from retrieving device metadata from the Internet.

Fix

Configure the policy value for Computer Configuration >> Administrative Templates >> System >> Device Installation >> "Prevent device metadata retrieval from the Internet" to "Enabled".

Rating Info

DISA Cat III. NIST impact 2.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226153r569184_rule'

WN12-AU-000001: The system must be configured to audit Account Logon - Credential Validation successes.

Discussion

Fix

Rating Info

DISA Cat II. NIST impact 3.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226085r569184_rule'

WN12-SO-000057: Unauthorized remotely accessible registry paths and sub-paths must not be configured.

If the following registry value does not exist or is not configured as specified, this is a finding: Registry Hive: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE Registry Path: \System\CurrentControlSet\Control\SecurePipeServers\Winreg\AllowedPaths\ Value Name: Machine Value Type: REG_MULTI_SZ Value: see below Software\Microsoft\OLAP Server Software\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\Perflib Software\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\Print Software\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\Windows System\CurrentControlSet\Control\ContentIndex System\CurrentControlSet\Control\Print\Printers System\CurrentControlSet\Control\Terminal Server System\CurrentControlSet\Control\Terminal Server\UserConfig System\CurrentControlSet\Control\Terminal Server\DefaultUserConfiguration System\CurrentControlSet\Services\Eventlog System\CurrentControlSet\Services\Sysmonlog Legitimate applications may add entries to this registry value. If an application requires these entries to function properly and is documented with the ISSO, this would not be a finding. Documentation must contain supporting information from the vendor's instructions.

Discussion

The registry is integral to the function, security, and stability of the Windows system. Some processes may require remote access to the registry. This setting controls which registry paths and sub-paths are accessible from a remote computer. These registry paths must be limited, as they could give unauthorized individuals access to the registry.

Fix

Configure the policy value for Computer Configuration -> Windows Settings -> Security Settings -> Local Policies -> Security Options -> "Network access: Remotely accessible registry paths and sub-paths" with the following entries: Software\Microsoft\OLAP Server Software\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\Perflib Software\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\Print Software\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\Windows System\CurrentControlSet\Control\ContentIndex System\CurrentControlSet\Control\Print\Printers System\CurrentControlSet\Control\Terminal Server System\CurrentControlSet\Control\Terminal Server\UserConfig System\CurrentControlSet\Control\Terminal Server\DefaultUserConfiguration System\CurrentControlSet\Services\Eventlog System\CurrentControlSet\Services\Sysmonlog

Rating Info

DISA Cat I. NIST impact 4.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226320r569184_rule'

Discussion

Inappropriate granting of user rights can provide system, administrative, and other high-level capabilities. Accounts with the "Allow log on through Remote Desktop Services" user right can access a system through Remote Desktop.

Fix

Configure the policy value for Computer Configuration >> Windows Settings >> Security Settings >> Local Policies >> User Rights Assignment >> "Allow log on through Remote Desktop Services" to only include the following accounts or groups: Administrators

Rating Info

DISA Cat II. NIST impact 3.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226400r569184_rule'

WN12-AU-000206: Permissions for the System event log must prevent access by nonprivileged accounts.

Verify the permissions on the System event log (System.evtx). Standard user accounts or groups must not have greater than Read access. The default permissions listed below satisfy this requirement: Eventlog - Full Control SYSTEM - Full Control Administrators - Full Control The default location is the "%SystemRoot%\SYSTEM32\WINEVT\LOGS" directory. They may have been moved to another folder. If the permissions for these files are not as restrictive as the ACLs listed, this is a finding.

Discussion

Fix

Ensure the permissions on the System event log (System.evtx) are configured to prevent standard user accounts or groups from having greater than Read access. The default permissions listed below satisfy this requirement: Eventlog - Full Control SYSTEM - Full Control Administrators - Full Control The default location is the "%SystemRoot%\SYSTEM32\WINEVT\LOGS" directory. If the location of the logs has been changed, when adding Eventlog to the permissions, it must be entered as "NT Service\Eventlog".

Rating Info

DISA Cat II. NIST impact 3.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226127r569184_rule'

Discussion

Inappropriate granting of user rights can provide system, administrative, and other high-level capabilities. Accounts with the "Force shutdown from a remote system" user right can remotely shut down a system, which could result in a DoS.

Fix

Configure the policy value for Computer Configuration >> Windows Settings >> Security Settings >> Local Policies >> User Rights Assignment >> "Force shutdown from a remote system" to only include the following accounts or groups: Administrators

Rating Info

DISA Cat II. NIST impact 3.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226387r569184_rule'

WN12-UR-000022-DC: Unauthorized accounts must not have the Enable computer and user accounts to be trusted for delegation user right on domain controllers.

Verify the effective setting in Local Group Policy Editor. Run "gpedit.msc". Navigate to Local Computer Policy -> Computer Configuration -> Windows Settings -> Security Settings -> Local Policies -> User Rights Assignment. If any accounts or groups other than the following are granted the "Enable computer and user accounts to be trusted for delegation" user right, this is a finding: Administrators

Discussion

Inappropriate granting of user rights can provide system, administrative, and other high-level capabilities. The "Enable computer and user accounts to be trusted for delegation" user right allows the "Trusted for Delegation" setting to be changed. This could potentially allow unauthorized users to impersonate other users.

Fix

Configure the policy value for Computer Configuration -> Windows Settings -> Security Settings -> Local Policies -> User Rights Assignment -> "Enable computer and user accounts to be trusted for delegation" to only include the following accounts or groups: Administrators

Rating Info

DISA Cat II. NIST impact 3.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226386r569184_rule'

WN12-CC-000121: Users must not be presented with Privacy and Installation options on first use of Windows Media Player.

Discussion

Some features may communicate with the vendor, sending system information or downloading data or components for the feature. Turning off this capability will prevent potentially sensitive information from being sent outside the enterprise and uncontrolled updates to the system. This setting prevents users from being presented with Privacy and Installation options on first use of Windows Media Player, which could enable some communication with the vendor.

Fix

If Windows Media Player is installed, configure the policy value for Computer Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Windows Components -> Windows Media Player -> "Do Not Show First Use Dialog Boxes" to "Enabled".

Rating Info

DISA Cat III. NIST impact 2.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226214r569184_rule'

Configure the policy value for Computer Configuration >> Windows Settings >> Security Settings >> Local Policies >> User Rights Assignment >> "Back up files and directories" to only include the following accounts or groups: Administrators

Rating Info

DISA Cat II. NIST impact 3.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226374r569184_rule'

WN12-SO-000041: The system must be configured to limit how often keep-alive packets are sent.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226107r569184_rule'

WN12-SV-000100: The Fax service must be disabled if installed.

Verify the Fax (fax) service is not installed or is disabled. Run "Services.msc". If the following is installed and not disabled, this is a finding: Fax (fax)

Discussion

Unnecessary services increase the attack surface of a system. Some of these services may not support required levels of authentication or encryption.

Fix

Remove or disable the Fax (fax) service.

Rating Info

DISA Cat II. NIST impact 3.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226353r569184_rule'

WN12-CC-000123: The Windows Remote Management (WinRM) client must not use Basic authentication.

Discussion

Basic authentication uses plain text passwords that could be used to compromise a system.

Old Rule ID 'SV-226156r569184_rule'

WN12-UR-000024: The Generate security audits user right must only be assigned to Local Service and Network Service.

WN12-SO-000005: The built-in administrator account must be renamed.

Verify the effective setting in Local Group Policy Editor. Run "gpedit.msc". Navigate to Local Computer Policy -> Computer Configuration -> Windows Settings -> Security Settings -> Local Policies -> Security Options. If the value for "Accounts: Rename administrator account" is not set to a value other than "Administrator", this is a finding.

An account that does not have Administrator duties must not have Administrator rights. Such rights would allow the account to bypass or modify required security restrictions on that machine and make it vulnerable to attack. System administrators must log on to systems only using accounts with the minimum level of authority necessary. Standard user accounts must not be members of the built-in Administrators group.

Fix

Configure the system to include only administrator groups or accounts that are responsible for the system in the Administrators group. Remove any standard user accounts.

Rating Info

DISA Cat I. NIST impact 4.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226238r569184_rule'

Discussion

Some features may communicate with the vendor, sending system information or downloading data or components for the feature. Turning off this capability will prevent potentially sensitive information from being sent outside the enterprise and uncontrolled updates to the system. This setting prevents errors in handwriting recognition on tablet PCs from being reported to Microsoft.

Fix

Rating Info

DISA Cat III. NIST impact 2.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226164r569184_rule'

WN12-SO-000066: The system must be configured to force users to log off when their allowed logon hours expire.

Verify the effective setting in Local Group Policy Editor. Run "gpedit.msc". Navigate to Local Computer Policy -> Computer Configuration -> Windows Settings -> Security Settings -> Local Policies -> Security Options. If the value for "Network security: Force logoff when logon hours expire" is not set to "Enabled", this is a finding.

Discussion

Limiting logon hours can help protect data by only allowing access during specified times. This setting controls whether or not users are forced to log off when their allowed logon hours expire. If logon hours are set for users, this must be enforced.

Fix

Configure the policy value for Computer Configuration -> Windows Settings -> Security Settings -> Local Policies -> Security Options -> "Network security: Force logoff when logon hours expire" to "Enabled".

Rating Info

DISA Cat II. NIST impact 3.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226329r569184_rule'

WN12-CC-000070: Trusted app installation must be enabled to allow for signed enterprise line of business apps.

Discussion

Enabling trusted app installation allows for enterprise line of business Windows 8 type apps. A trusted app package is one that is signed with a certificate chain that can be successfully validated in the enterprise. Configuring this ensures enterprise line of business apps are accessible.

Fix

Configure the policy value for Computer Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Windows Components -> App Package Deployment -> "Allow all trusted apps to install" to "Enabled".

Rating Info

DISA Cat III. NIST impact 2.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226182r569184_rule'

WN12-00-000220: Windows PowerShell 2.0 must not be installed on Windows 2012/2012 R2.

Windows PowerShell 2.0 is not installed by default. Open "Windows PowerShell". Enter "Get-WindowsFeature -Name PowerShell-v2". If "Installed State" is "Installed", this is a finding. An Installed State of "Available" or "Removed" is not a finding.

Discussion

Windows PowerShell versions 4.0 (with a patch) and 5.x add advanced logging features that can provide additional detail when malware has been run on a system. Ensuring Windows PowerShell 2.0 is not installed as well mitigates against a downgrade attack that evades the advanced logging features of later Windows PowerShell versions.

Fix

Windows PowerShell 2.0 is not installed by default. Uninstall it if it has been installed. Open "Windows PowerShell". Enter "Uninstall-WindowsFeature -Name PowerShell-v2". Alternately: Use the "Remove Roles and Features Wizard" and deselect "Windows PowerShell 2.0 Engine" under "Windows PowerShell".

Rating Info

DISA Cat II. NIST impact 3.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226055r569184_rule'

WN12-CC-000104: Remote Desktop Services must be configured to use session-specific temporary folders.

Discussion

If a communal temporary folder is used for remote desktop sessions, it might be possible for users to access other users' temporary folders. If this setting is enabled, only one temporary folder is used for all remote desktop sessions. Per session temporary folders must be established.

Discussion

Microsoft has implemented a variety of security support providers for use with RPC sessions. All of the options must be enabled to ensure the maximum security level.

Fix

Configure the policy value for Computer Configuration -> Windows Settings -> Security Settings -> Local Policies -> Security Options -> "Network security: Minimum session security for NTLM SSP based (including secure RPC) servers" to "Require NTLMv2 session security" and "Require 128-bit encryption" (all options selected).

Rating Info

DISA Cat II. NIST impact 3.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226333r569184_rule'

WN12-GE-000017: System files must be monitored for unauthorized changes.

WN12-SO-000074: The system must be configured to use FIPS-compliant algorithms for encryption, hashing, and signing.

If the following registry value does not exist or is not configured as specified, this is a finding: Registry Hive: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE Registry Path: \SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\Lsa\FIPSAlgorithmPolicy\ Value Name: Enabled Value Type: REG_DWORD Value: 1 Warning: Clients with this setting enabled will not be able to communicate via digitally encrypted or signed protocols with servers that do not support these algorithms. Both the browser and web server must be configured to use TLS, or the browser will not be able to connect to a secure site.

Discussion

This setting ensures that the system uses algorithms that are FIPS-compliant for encryption, hashing, and signing. FIPS-compliant algorithms meet specific standards established by the U.S. Government and must be the algorithms used for all OS encryption functions.

Fix

Configure the policy value for Computer Configuration >> Windows Settings >> Security Settings >> Local Policies >> Security Options >> "System cryptography: Use FIPS compliant algorithms for encryption, hashing, and signing" to "Enabled".

Rating Info

DISA Cat II. NIST impact 3.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226335r569184_rule'

WN12-SO-000034: Users must be forcibly disconnected when their logon hours expire.

Discussion

Users must not be permitted to remain logged on to the network after they have exceeded their permitted logon hours. In many cases, this indicates that a user forgot to log off before leaving for the day. However, it may also indicate that a user is attempting unauthorized access at a time when the system may be less closely monitored. Forcibly disconnecting users when logon hours expire protects critical and sensitive network data from exposure to unauthorized personnel with physical access to the computer.

Fix

Configure the policy value for Computer Configuration -> Windows Settings -> Security Settings -> Local Policies -> Security Options -> "Microsoft network server: Disconnect clients when logon hours expire" to "Enabled".

Rating Info

DISA Cat III. NIST impact 2.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226299r569184_rule'

WN12-CC-000142: The Windows Explorer Preview pane must be disabled for Windows 2012.

If the following registry values do not exist or are not configured as specified, this is a finding: Registry Hive: HKEY_CURRENT_USER Registry Path: \SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\Explorer Value Name: NoPreviewPane Value Type: REG_DWORD Value: 1 Registry Hive: HKEY_CURRENT_USER Registry Path: \SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\Explorer Value Name: NoReadingPane Value Type: REG_DWORD Value: 1

Discussion

A known vulnerability in Windows could allow the execution of malicious code by either opening a compromised document or viewing it in the Windows Preview pane. Organizations must disable the Windows Preview pane and Windows Detail pane.

Fix

Ensure the following settings are configured for Windows 2012 locally or applied through group policy. Configure the policy value for User Configuration >> Administrative Templates >> Windows Components >> File Explorer >> Explorer Frame Pane "Turn off Preview Pane" to "Enabled". Configure the policy value for User Configuration >> Administrative Templates >> Windows Components >> File Explorer >> Explorer Frame Pane "Turn on or off details pane" to "Enabled" and "Configure details pane" to "Always hide".

Rating Info

DISA Cat II. NIST impact 3.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226233r569184_rule'

WN12-CC-000073: The default Autorun behavior must be configured to prevent Autorun commands.

Discussion

Allowing Autorun commands to execute may introduce malicious code to a system. Configuring this setting prevents Autorun commands from executing.

Fix

Configure the policy value for Computer Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Windows Components -> AutoPlay Policies -> "Set the default behavior for AutoRun" to "Enabled:Do not execute any autorun commands".

Rating Info

DISA Cat I. NIST impact 4.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226185r569184_rule'

WN12-AU-000035-DC: The system must be configured to audit DS Access - Directory Service Changes successes.

Discussion

Fix

Rating Info

DISA Cat II. NIST impact 3.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226097r569184_rule'

WN12-CC-000134: The system must be configured to ensure smart card devices can be redirected to the Remote Desktop session. (Remote Desktop Services Role).

Discussion

Enabling the redirection of smart card devices allows their use within Remote Desktop sessions.

Fix

Rating Info

DISA Cat II. NIST impact 3.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226226r569184_rule'

WN12-00-000018: The operating system must employ a deny-all, permit-by-exception policy to allow the execution of authorized software programs.

WN12-SO-000092: Users must be required to enter a password to access private keys stored on the computer.

If the following registry value does not exist or is not configured as specified, this is a finding: Registry Hive: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE Registry Path: \SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft\Cryptography\ Value Name: ForceKeyProtection Type: REG_DWORD Value: 2

Discussion

If the private key is discovered, an attacker can use the key to authenticate as an authorized user and gain access to the network infrastructure. The cornerstone of the PKI is the private key used to encrypt or digitally sign information. If the private key is stolen, this will lead to the compromise of the authentication and non-repudiation gained through PKI because the attacker can use the private key to digitally sign documents and pretend to be the authorized user. Both the holders of a digital certificate and the issuing authority must protect the computers, storage devices, or whatever they use to keep the private keys.

Fix

Configure the policy value for Computer Configuration >> Windows Settings >> Security Settings >> Local Policies >> Security Options >> "System cryptography: Force strong key protection for user keys stored on the computer" to "User must enter a password each time they use a key".

Rating Info

DISA Cat II. NIST impact 3.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226352r569184_rule'

WN12-SO-000052: Anonymous enumeration of shares must be restricted.

Discussion

Allowing anonymous logon users (null session connections) to list all account names and enumerate all shared resources can provide a map of potential points to attack the system.

DISA Cat II. NIST impact 3.

Expert Comment

None

WN12-CC-000128: The Windows Remote Management (WinRM) service must not store RunAs credentials.

Discussion

Storage of administrative credentials could allow unauthorized access. Disallowing the storage of RunAs credentials for Windows Remote Management will prevent them from being used with plug-ins.

Fix

Configure the policy value for Computer Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Windows Components -> Windows Remote Management (WinRM) -> WinRM Service -> "Disallow WinRM from storing RunAs credentials" to "Enabled".

Rating Info

DISA Cat II. NIST impact 3.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226221r569184_rule'

WN12-AD-000001-DC: Active Directory data files must have proper access control permissions.

Verify the permissions on the content of the NTDS directory. Open the registry editor (regedit). Navigate to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\System\CurrentControlSet\Services\NTDS\Parameters. Note the directory locations in the values for: Database log files path DSA Database file By default they will be \Windows\NTDS. If the locations are different, the following will need to be run for each. Open an elevated command prompt (Win+x, Command Prompt (Admin)). Navigate to the NTDS directory (\Windows\NTDS by default). Run "icacls *.*". If the permissions on each file are not at least as restrictive as the following, this is a finding. NT AUTHORITY\SYSTEM:(I)(F) BUILTIN\Administrators:(I)(F) (I) - permission inherited from parent container (F) - full access Do not use File Explorer to attempt to view permissions of the NTDS folder. Accessing the folder through File Explorer will change the permissions on the folder.

Discussion

Improper access permissions for directory data related files could allow unauthorized users to read, modify, or delete directory data or audit trails.

Fix

Ensure the permissions on NTDS database and log files are at least as restrictive as the following: NT AUTHORITY\SYSTEM:(I)(F) BUILTIN\Administrators:(I)(F) (I) - permission inherited from parent container (F) - full access

Rating Info

DISA Cat I. NIST impact 4.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226070r569184_rule'

WN12-SO-000079: User Account Control must automatically deny standard user requests for elevation.

Discussion

User Account Control (UAC) is a security mechanism for limiting the elevation of privileges, including administrative accounts, unless authorized. This setting controls the behavior of elevation when requested by a standard user account. Satisfies: SRG-OS-000373-GPOS-00158

Old Rule ID 'SV-226249r569184_rule'

WN12-CC-000005: Domain users must be required to elevate when setting a networks location.

Discussion

Selecting an incorrect network location may allow greater exposure of a system. Elevation is required by default on nondomain systems to change network location. This setting configures elevation to also be required on domain-joined systems.

Fix

Configure the policy value for Computer Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Network -> Network Connections -> "Require domain users to elevate when setting a network's location" to "Enabled".

Rating Info

DISA Cat III. NIST impact 2.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226139r569184_rule'

WN12-AU-000208-DC: The Active Directory Domain object must be configured with proper audit settings.

Rating Info

DISA Cat II. NIST impact 3.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226080r569184_rule'

WN12-SO-000085: User Account Control must virtualize file and registry write failures to per-user locations.

Discussion

User Account Control (UAC) is a security mechanism for limiting the elevation of privileges, including administrative accounts, unless authorized. This setting configures non-UAC-compliant applications to run in virtualized file and registry entries in per-user locations, allowing them to run.

DISA Cat III. NIST impact 2.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226040r569184_rule'

Configure the policy value in the Default Domain Policy for Computer Configuration -> Policies -> Windows Settings -> Security Settings -> Account Policies -> Kerberos Policy -> "Maximum lifetime for user ticket renewal" to a maximum of 7 days or less.

Rating Info

DISA Cat II. NIST impact 3.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226068r569184_rule'

WN12-CC-000118: Nonadministrators must be prevented from applying vendor-signed updates.

Discussion

Uncontrolled system updates can introduce issues to a system. This setting will prevent users from applying vendor-signed updates (though they may be from a trusted source).

Fix

Configure the policy value for Computer Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Windows Components -> Windows Installer -> "Prohibit non-administrators from applying vendor signed updates" to "Enabled".

Rating Info

DISA Cat III. NIST impact 2.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226212r569184_rule'

WN12-AU-000015: The system must be configured to audit Account Management - Other Account Management Events successes.

Security Option "Audit: Force audit policy subcategory settings (Windows Vista or later) to override audit policy category settings" must be set to "Enabled" (V-14230) for the detailed auditing subcategories to be effective. Use the AuditPol tool to review the current Audit Policy configuration: -Open a Command Prompt with elevated privileges ("Run as Administrator"). -Enter "AuditPol /get /category:*". Compare the AuditPol settings with the following. If the system does not audit the following, this is a finding. Account Management -> Other Account Management Events - Success

Discussion

Fix

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226300r569184_rule'

WN12-CC-000120: Windows Media Digital Rights Management (DRM) must be prevented from accessing the Internet.

Discussion

Some features may communicate with the vendor, sending system information or downloading data or components for the feature. Turning off this capability will prevent potentially sensitive information from being sent outside the enterprise and uncontrolled updates to the system. This check verifies that Windows Media DRM will be prevented from accessing the Internet.

Fix

Configure the policy value for Computer Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Windows Components -> Windows Media Digital Rights Management -> "Prevent Windows Media DRM Internet Access" to "Enabled".

Rating Info

DISA Cat II. NIST impact 3.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226213r569184_rule'

WN12-SO-000029: The Windows SMB client must be enabled to perform SMB packet signing when possible.

Discussion

The server message block (SMB) protocol provides the basis for many network operations. If this policy is enabled, the SMB client will request packet signing when communicating with an SMB server that is enabled or required to perform SMB packet signing.

Discussion

The server message block (SMB) protocol provides the basis for many network operations. Digitally signed SMB packets aid in preventing man-in-the-middle attacks. If this policy is enabled, the SMB server will negotiate SMB packet signing as requested by the client.

Discussion

Fix

Rating Info

DISA Cat II. NIST impact 3.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226091r569184_rule'

WN12-SV-000104: The Simple TCP/IP Services service must be disabled if installed.

Verify the Simple TCP/IP (simptcp) service is not installed or is disabled. Run "Services.msc". If the following is installed and not disabled, this is a finding: Simple TCP/IP Services (simptcp)

Discussion

Unnecessary services increase the attack surface of a system. Some of these services may not support required levels of authentication or encryption.

Fix

Remove or disable the Simple TCP/IP Services (simptcp) service.

Rating Info

DISA Cat II. NIST impact 3.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226356r569184_rule'

WN12-UC-000007: The Windows Help Experience Improvement Program must be disabled.

Discussion

Some features may communicate with the vendor, sending system information or downloading data or components for the feature. Turning off this capability will prevent potentially sensitive information from being sent outside the enterprise and uncontrolled updates to the system. This setting ensures the Windows Help Experience Improvement Program is disabled to prevent information from being passed to the vendor.

Fix

Rating Info

DISA Cat II. NIST impact 3.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226363r569184_rule'

Maintain permissions at least as restrictive as the defaults listed below for the "WinLogon" registry key. It is recommended to not change the permissions from the defaults. HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\Winlogon\ The following are the same for each permission listed: Type - Allow Inherited from - MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion Applies to - This key and subkeys Columns: Principal - Access TrustedInstaller - Full Control SYSTEM - Full Control Administrators - Full Control Users - Read ALL APPLICATION PACKAGES - Read

Rating Info

DISA Cat I. NIST impact 4.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226268r569184_rule'

WN12-CC-000117: Users must be notified if a web-based program attempts to install software.

Discussion

Users must be aware of attempted program installations. This setting ensures users are notified if a web-based program attempts to install software.

Fix

Configure the policy value for Computer Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Windows Components -> Windows Installer -> "Prevent Internet Explorer security prompt for Windows Installer scripts" to "Disabled".

Rating Info

DISA Cat II. NIST impact 3.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226211r569184_rule'

WN12-AU-000204: Permissions for the Application event log must prevent access by nonprivileged accounts.

Verify the permissions on the Application event log (Application.evtx). Standard user accounts or groups must not have greater than Read access. The default permissions listed below satisfy this requirement: Eventlog - Full Control SYSTEM - Full Control Administrators - Full Control The default location is the "%SystemRoot%\SYSTEM32\WINEVT\LOGS" directory. They may have been moved to another folder. If the permissions for these files are not as restrictive as the ACLs listed, this is a finding.

Discussion

Fix

Ensure the permissions on the Application event log (Application.evtx) are configured to prevent standard user accounts or groups from having greater than Read access. The default permissions listed below satisfy this requirement: Eventlog - Full Control SYSTEM - Full Control Administrators - Full Control The default location is the "%SystemRoot%\SYSTEM32\WINEVT\LOGS" directory. If the location of the logs has been changed, when adding Eventlog to the permissions, it must be entered as "NT Service\Eventlog".

Rating Info

DISA Cat II. NIST impact 3.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226125r569184_rule'

WN12-CC-000095: The location feature must be turned off.

If the following registry value does not exist or is not configured as specified, this is a finding: Registry Hive: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE Registry Path: \Software\Policies\Microsoft\Windows\LocationAndSensors\ Value Name: DisableLocation Type: REG_DWORD Value: 1 (Enabled) If location services are approved for the system by the organization, this may be set to "Disabled" (0). This must be documented with the ISSO.

Discussion

The location service on systems may allow sensitive data to be used by applications on the system. This should be turned off unless explicitly allowed for approved systems/applications.

Fix

Configure the policy value for Computer Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Windows Components -> Location and Sensors -> "Turn off location" to "Enabled". If location services are approved by the organization for a device, this must be documented.

Rating Info

DISA Cat II. NIST impact 3.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226198r569184_rule'

WN12-UR-000014: The Create permanent shared objects user right must not be assigned to any groups or accounts.

Discussion

Inappropriate granting of user rights can provide system, administrative, and other high-level capabilities. Accounts with the "Create permanent shared objects" user right could expose sensitive data by creating shared objects.

Fix

Configure the policy value for Computer Configuration >> Windows Settings >> Security Settings >> Local Policies >> User Rights Assignment >> "Create permanent shared objects" to be defined but containing no entries (blank).

Rating Info

DISA Cat II. NIST impact 3.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226378r569184_rule'

Configure the policy value for Computer Configuration >> Administrative Templates >> MS Security Guide >> "WDigest Authentication (disabling may require KB2871997)" to "Disabled". Note: Microsoft Security Advisory update 2871997 is required for this setting to be effective on Windows 2012. It is not required for Windows 2012 R2. This policy setting requires the installation of the SecGuide custom templates included with the STIG package. "SecGuide.admx" and "SecGuide.adml" must be copied to the \Windows\PolicyDefinitions and \Windows\PolicyDefinitions\en-US directories respectively.

Rating Info

DISA Cat II. NIST impact 3.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226235r569184_rule'

WN12-SO-000075: The system must be configured to require case insensitivity for non-Windows subsystems.

Discussion

This setting controls the behavior of non-Windows subsystems when dealing with the case of arguments or commands. Case sensitivity could lead to the access of files or commands that must be restricted. To prevent this from happening, case insensitivity restrictions must be required.

Fix

Configure the policy value for Computer Configuration -> Windows Settings -> Security Settings -> Local Policies -> Security Options -> "System objects: Require case insensitivity for non-Windows subsystems" to "Enabled".

Rating Info

DISA Cat II. NIST impact 3.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226336r569184_rule'

WN12-00-000180: The Server Message Block (SMB) v1 protocol must be disabled on the SMB client.

This requirement specifically applies to Windows 2012 but can also be used for Windows 2012 R2. Different methods are available to disable SMBv1 on Windows 2012 R2, if V-73805 is configured on Windows 2012 R2, this is NA. If the following registry value is not configured as specified, this is a finding: Registry Hive: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE Registry Path: \SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\mrxsmb10\ Value Name: Start Type: REG_DWORD Value: 0x00000004 (4) If the following registry value includes MRxSmb10, this is a finding: Registry Hive: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE Registry Path: \SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\LanmanWorkstation\ Value Name: DependOnService Type: REG_MULTI_SZ Value: Default values after removing MRxSmb10 include the following, which are not a finding: Bowser MRxSmb20 NSI

Discussion

Fix

Configure the policy value for Computer Configuration >> Administrative Templates >> MS Security Guide >> "Configure SMBv1 client driver" to "Enabled" with "Disable driver (recommended)" selected for "Configure MrxSmb10 driver". Configure the policy value for Computer Configuration >> Administrative Templates >> MS Security Guide >> "Configure SMBv1 client (extra setting needed for pre-Win8.1/2012R2)" to "Enabled" with the following three lines of text entered for "Configure LanmanWorkstation Dependencies": Bowser MRxSmb20 NSI The system must be restarted for the changes to take effect. These policy settings requires the installation of the SecGuide custom templates included with the STIG package. "SecGuide.admx" and "SecGuide.adml" must be copied to the \Windows\PolicyDefinitions and \Windows\PolicyDefinitions\en-US directories respectively.

Rating Info

DISA Cat II. NIST impact 3.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226051r569184_rule'

WN12-SO-000086: UIAccess applications must not be allowed to prompt for elevation without using the secure desktop.

Discussion

User Account Control (UAC) is a security mechanism for limiting the elevation of privileges, including administrative accounts, unless authorized. This setting prevents User Interface Accessibility programs from disabling the secure desktop for elevation prompts.

Fix

Rating Info

DISA Cat II. NIST impact 3.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226347r569184_rule'

Discussion

Allowing Autoplay to execute may introduce malicious code to a system. Autoplay begins reading from a drive as soon as media is inserted into the drive. As a result, the setup file of programs or music on audio media may start. This setting will disable Autoplay for non-volume devices (such as Media Transfer Protocol (MTP) devices).

Fix

Configure the policy value for Computer Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Windows Components -> AutoPlay Policies -> "Disallow Autoplay for non-volume devices" to "Enabled".

Rating Info

DISA Cat I. NIST impact 4.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226184r569184_rule'

WN12-CC-000065: The detection of compatibility issues for applications and drivers must be turned off.

Discussion

Some features may communicate with the vendor, sending system information or downloading data or components for the feature. Turning off this feature will prevent potentially sensitive information from being sent outside the enterprise and uncontrolled updates to the system.

Fix

Configure the policy value for Computer Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> System -> Troubleshooting and Diagnostics -> Application Compatibility Diagnostics -> "Detect compatibility issues for applications and drivers" to "Disabled".

Rating Info

DISA Cat III. NIST impact 2.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226177r569184_rule'

WN12-PK-000004: The US DoD CCEB Interoperability Root CA cross-certificates must be installed into the Untrusted Certificates Store on unclassified systems.

Verify the US DoD CCEB Interoperability Root CA cross-certificate is installed on unclassified systems as an Untrusted Certificate. Run "PowerShell" as an administrator. Execute the following command: Get-ChildItem -Path Cert:Localmachine\disallowed | Where Issuer -Like "*CCEB Interoperability*" | FL Subject, Issuer, Thumbprint, NotAfter If the following certificate "Subject", "Issuer", and "Thumbprint" information is not displayed, this is a finding. Subject: CN=DoD Root CA 3, OU=PKI, OU=DoD, O=U.S. Government, C=US Issuer: CN=US DoD CCEB Interoperability Root CA 2, OU=PKI, OU=DoD, O=U.S. Government, C=US Thumbprint: 9B74964506C7ED9138070D08D5F8B969866560C8 NotAfter: 7/18/2025 Alternately use the Certificates MMC snap-in: Run "MMC". Select "File", "Add/Remove Snap-in". Select "Certificates", click "Add". Select "Computer account", click "Next". Select "Local computer: (the computer this console is running on)", click "Finish". Click "OK". Expand "Certificates" and navigate to Untrusted Certificates >> Certificates. For each certificate with "US DoD CCEB Interoperability Root CA …" under "Issued By": Right-click on the certificate and select "Open". Select the "Details" tab. Scroll to the bottom and select "Thumbprint". If the certificate below is not listed or the value for the "Thumbprint" field is not as noted, this is a finding. Issued To: DoD Root CA 3 Issued by: US DoD CCEB Interoperability Root CA 2 Thumbprint: 9B74964506C7ED9138070D08D5F8B969866560C8 Valid: Friday, July 18, 2025

Discussion

To ensure users do not experience denial of service when performing certificate-based authentication to DoD websites due to the system chaining to a root other than DoD Root CAs, the US DoD CCEB Interoperability Root CA cross-certificates must be installed in the Untrusted Certificate Store. This requirement only applies to unclassified systems.

Fix

Install the US DoD CCEB Interoperability Root CA cross-certificate on unclassified systems. Issued To - Issued By - Thumbprint DoD Root CA 3 - US DoD CCEB Interoperability Root CA 2 - 9B74964506C7ED9138070D08D5F8B969866560C8 The certificates can be installed using the InstallRoot tool. The tool and user guide are available on Cyber Exchange at https://cyber.mil/pki-pke/tools-configuration-files. PKI can be found at https://crl.gds.disa.mil/.

Rating Info

DISA Cat II. NIST impact 3.

Expert Comment

None

WN12-CC-000076: The password reveal button must not be displayed.

Discussion

Visible passwords may be seen by nearby persons, compromising them. The password reveal button can be used to display an entered password and must not be allowed.

Fix

Configure the policy value for Computer Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Windows Components -> Credential User Interface -> "Do not display the password reveal button" to "Enabled".

Rating Info

DISA Cat II. NIST impact 3.

Expert Comment

Old Rule ID 'SV-226188r569184_rule'