Title

Indexing of encrypted files must be turned off. (Cat II impact)

Discussion

Indexing of encrypted files may expose sensitive data. This setting prevents encrypted files from being indexed.

Check Content

If the following registry value does not exist or is not configured as specified, this is a finding: Registry Hive: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE Subkey: \Software\Policies\Microsoft\Windows\Windows Search\ Value Name: AllowIndexingEncryptedStoresOrItems Type: REG_DWORD Value: 0

Fix Text

Configure the policy value for Computer Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Windows Components -> Search -> "Allow indexing of encrypted files" to "Disabled".

Additional Identifiers

Rule ID: SV-48249r2_rule

Vulnerability ID: V-15711

Group Title: Search – Encrypted Files Indexing

Expert Comments

CCIs tied to check.

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