Rules with PCI-DSS Reference in Guide to the Secure Configuration of Oracle Linux 7


Mapping Rule Title Description Rationale
Req-1.3 Set configuration for loopback traffic Configure the loopback interface to accept traffic. Configure all other interfaces to deny traffic to the loopback network. Loopback traffic is generated between processes on machine and is typically critical to operation of the system. The loopback interface is the only place that loopback network traffic should be seen, all other interfaces should ignore traffic on this network as an anti-spoofing measure.
Req-1.3 Set configuration for IPv6 loopback traffic Configure the loopback interface to accept traffic. Configure all other interfaces to deny traffic to the loopback network. Loopback traffic is generated between processes on machine and is typically critical to operation of the system. The loopback interface is the only place that loopback network traffic should be seen, all other interfaces should ignore traffic on this network as an anti-spoofing measure.
Req-1.3.1
Req-1.3.2
Disable Kernel Parameter for IP Forwarding on IPv4 Interfaces To set the runtime status of the net.ipv4.ip_forward kernel parameter, run the following command:
$ sudo sysctl -w net.ipv4.ip_forward=0
To make sure that the setting is persistent, add the following line to a file in the directory /etc/sysctl.d:
net.ipv4.ip_forward = 0
Routing protocol daemons are typically used on routers to exchange network topology information with other routers. If this capability is used when not required, system network information may be unnecessarily transmitted across the network.
Req-1.3.1
Req-1.3.2
Ensure IPv6 is disabled through kernel boot parameter To disable IPv6 protocol support in the Linux kernel, add the argument ipv6.disable=1 to the default GRUB2 command line for the Linux operating system. To ensure that ipv6.disable=1 is added as a kernel command line argument to newly installed kernels, add ipv6.disable=1 to the default Grub2 command line for Linux operating systems. Modify the line within /etc/default/grub as shown below:
GRUB_CMDLINE_LINUX="... ipv6.disable=1 ..."
Run the following command to update command line for already installed kernels:
# grubby --update-kernel=ALL --args="ipv6.disable=1"
Any unnecessary network stacks, including IPv6, should be disabled to reduce the vulnerability to exploitation.
Req-1.3.3 Deactivate Wireless Network Interfaces Deactivating wireless network interfaces should prevent normal usage of the wireless capability.

Configure the system to disable all wireless network interfaces with the following command:
$ sudo nmcli radio all off
The use of wireless networking can introduce many different attack vectors into the organization's network. Common attack vectors such as malicious association and ad hoc networks will allow an attacker to spoof a wireless access point (AP), allowing validated systems to connect to the malicious AP and enabling the attacker to monitor and record network traffic. These malicious APs can also serve to create a man-in-the-middle attack or be used to create a denial of service to valid network resources.
Req-1.4 Set Default firewalld Zone for Incoming Packets To set the default zone to drop for the built-in default zone which processes incoming IPv4 and IPv6 packets, modify the following line in /etc/firewalld/firewalld.conf to be:
DefaultZone=drop
In firewalld the default zone is applied only after all the applicable rules in the table are examined for a match. Setting the default zone to drop implements proper design for a firewall, i.e. any packets which are not explicitly permitted should not be accepted.
Req-1.4 Ensure firewall rules exist for all open ports Any ports that have been opened on non-loopback addresses need firewall rules to govern traffic. Without a firewall rule configured for open ports default firewall policy will drop all packets to these ports.
Req-1.4.1 Install iptables Package The iptables package can be installed with the following command:
$ sudo yum install iptables
iptables controls the Linux kernel network packet filtering code. iptables allows system operators to set up firewalls and IP masquerading, etc.
Req-1.4.1 Set nftables Configuration for Loopback Traffic Configure the loopback interface to accept traffic. Configure all other interfaces to deny traffic to the loopback network. Loopback traffic is generated between processes on machine and is typically critical to operation of the system. The loopback interface is the only place that loopback network traffic should be seen, all other interfaces should ignore traffic on this network as an anti-spoofing measure.
Req-1.4.1 Enable Kernel Parameter to Use TCP Syncookies on Network Interfaces To set the runtime status of the net.ipv4.tcp_syncookies kernel parameter, run the following command:
$ sudo sysctl -w net.ipv4.tcp_syncookies=1
To make sure that the setting is persistent, add the following line to a file in the directory /etc/sysctl.d:
net.ipv4.tcp_syncookies = 1
A TCP SYN flood attack can cause a denial of service by filling a system's TCP connection table with connections in the SYN_RCVD state. Syncookies can be used to track a connection when a subsequent ACK is received, verifying the initiator is attempting a valid connection and is not a flood source. This feature is activated when a flood condition is detected, and enables the system to continue servicing valid connection requests.
Req-1.4.2 Disable DCCP Support The Datagram Congestion Control Protocol (DCCP) is a relatively new transport layer protocol, designed to support streaming media and telephony. To configure the system to prevent the dccp kernel module from being loaded, add the following line to the file /etc/modprobe.d/dccp.conf:
install dccp /bin/false
To configure the system to prevent the dccp from being used, add the following line to file /etc/modprobe.d/dccp.conf:
blacklist dccp
Disabling DCCP protects the system against exploitation of any flaws in its implementation.
Req-1.4.2 Disable SCTP Support The Stream Control Transmission Protocol (SCTP) is a transport layer protocol, designed to support the idea of message-oriented communication, with several streams of messages within one connection. To configure the system to prevent the sctp kernel module from being loaded, add the following line to the file /etc/modprobe.d/sctp.conf:
install sctp /bin/false
To configure the system to prevent the sctp from being used, add the following line to file /etc/modprobe.d/sctp.conf:
blacklist sctp
Disabling SCTP protects the system against exploitation of any flaws in its implementation.
Req-1.4.3 Enable Kernel Parameter to Ignore ICMP Broadcast Echo Requests on IPv4 Interfaces To set the runtime status of the net.ipv4.icmp_echo_ignore_broadcasts kernel parameter, run the following command:
$ sudo sysctl -w net.ipv4.icmp_echo_ignore_broadcasts=1
To make sure that the setting is persistent, add the following line to a file in the directory /etc/sysctl.d:
net.ipv4.icmp_echo_ignore_broadcasts = 1
Responding to broadcast (ICMP) echoes facilitates network mapping and provides a vector for amplification attacks.
Ignoring ICMP echo requests (pings) sent to broadcast or multicast addresses makes the system slightly more difficult to enumerate on the network.
Req-1.4.3 Disable Kernel Parameter for Accepting Source-Routed Packets on IPv6 Interfaces by Default To set the runtime status of the net.ipv6.conf.default.accept_source_route kernel parameter, run the following command:
$ sudo sysctl -w net.ipv6.conf.default.accept_source_route=0
To make sure that the setting is persistent, add the following line to a file in the directory /etc/sysctl.d:
net.ipv6.conf.default.accept_source_route = 0
Source-routed packets allow the source of the packet to suggest routers forward the packet along a different path than configured on the router, which can be used to bypass network security measures. This requirement applies only to the forwarding of source-routerd traffic, such as when IPv6 forwarding is enabled and the system is functioning as a router. Accepting source-routed packets in the IPv6 protocol has few legitimate uses. It should be disabled unless it is absolutely required.
Req-1.4.3 Disable Kernel Parameter for Accepting Secure ICMP Redirects on all IPv4 Interfaces To set the runtime status of the net.ipv4.conf.all.secure_redirects kernel parameter, run the following command:
$ sudo sysctl -w net.ipv4.conf.all.secure_redirects=0
To make sure that the setting is persistent, add the following line to a file in the directory /etc/sysctl.d:
net.ipv4.conf.all.secure_redirects = 0
Accepting "secure" ICMP redirects (from those gateways listed as default gateways) has few legitimate uses. It should be disabled unless it is absolutely required.
Req-1.4.3 Enable Kernel Parameter to Use Reverse Path Filtering on all IPv4 Interfaces To set the runtime status of the net.ipv4.conf.all.rp_filter kernel parameter, run the following command:
$ sudo sysctl -w net.ipv4.conf.all.rp_filter=1
To make sure that the setting is persistent, add the following line to a file in the directory /etc/sysctl.d:
net.ipv4.conf.all.rp_filter = 1
Enabling reverse path filtering drops packets with source addresses that should not have been able to be received on the interface they were received on. It should not be used on systems which are routers for complicated networks, but is helpful for end hosts and routers serving small networks.
Req-1.4.3 Disable Kernel Parameter for Accepting ICMP Redirects by Default on IPv4 Interfaces To set the runtime status of the net.ipv4.conf.default.accept_redirects kernel parameter, run the following command:
$ sudo sysctl -w net.ipv4.conf.default.accept_redirects=0
To make sure that the setting is persistent, add the following line to a file in the directory /etc/sysctl.d:
net.ipv4.conf.default.accept_redirects = 0
ICMP redirect messages are used by routers to inform hosts that a more direct route exists for a particular destination. These messages modify the host's route table and are unauthenticated. An illicit ICMP redirect message could result in a man-in-the-middle attack.
This feature of the IPv4 protocol has few legitimate uses. It should be disabled unless absolutely required.
Req-1.4.3 Enable Kernel Parameter to Ignore Bogus ICMP Error Responses on IPv4 Interfaces To set the runtime status of the net.ipv4.icmp_ignore_bogus_error_responses kernel parameter, run the following command:
$ sudo sysctl -w net.ipv4.icmp_ignore_bogus_error_responses=1
To make sure that the setting is persistent, add the following line to a file in the directory /etc/sysctl.d:
net.ipv4.icmp_ignore_bogus_error_responses = 1
Ignoring bogus ICMP error responses reduces log size, although some activity would not be logged.
Req-2.2 Configure OpenSSL library to use System Crypto Policy Crypto Policies provide a centralized control over crypto algorithms usage of many packages. OpenSSL is supported by crypto policy, but the OpenSSL configuration may be set up to ignore it. To check that Crypto Policies settings are configured correctly, you have to examine the OpenSSL config file available under /etc/pki/tls/openssl.cnf. This file has the ini format, and it enables crypto policy support if there is a [ crypto_policy ] section that contains the .include /etc/crypto-policies/back-ends/opensslcnf.config directive. Overriding the system crypto policy makes the behavior of the Java runtime violates expectations, and makes system configuration more fragmented.
Req-2.2 Configure SSH to use System Crypto Policy Crypto Policies provide a centralized control over crypto algorithms usage of many packages. SSH is supported by crypto policy, but the SSH configuration may be set up to ignore it. To check that Crypto Policies settings are configured correctly, ensure that the CRYPTO_POLICY variable is either commented or not set at all in the /etc/sysconfig/sshd. Overriding the system crypto policy makes the behavior of the SSH service violate expectations, and makes system configuration more fragmented.
Req-2.2 Configure Libreswan to use System Crypto Policy Crypto Policies provide a centralized control over crypto algorithms usage of many packages. Libreswan is supported by system crypto policy, but the Libreswan configuration may be set up to ignore it. To check that Crypto Policies settings are configured correctly, ensure that the /etc/ipsec.conf includes the appropriate configuration file. In /etc/ipsec.conf, make sure that the following line is not commented out or superseded by later includes: include /etc/crypto-policies/back-ends/libreswan.config Overriding the system crypto policy makes the behavior of the Libreswan service violate expectations, and makes system configuration more fragmented.
Req-2.2.1 Enable Randomized Layout of Virtual Address Space To set the runtime status of the kernel.randomize_va_space kernel parameter, run the following command:
$ sudo sysctl -w kernel.randomize_va_space=2
To make sure that the setting is persistent, add the following line to a file in the directory /etc/sysctl.d:
kernel.randomize_va_space = 2
Address space layout randomization (ASLR) makes it more difficult for an attacker to predict the location of attack code they have introduced into a process's address space during an attempt at exploitation. Additionally, ASLR makes it more difficult for an attacker to know the location of existing code in order to re-purpose it using return oriented programming (ROP) techniques.
Req-2.2.2 Uninstall telnet-server Package The telnet-server package can be removed with the following command:
$ sudo yum erase telnet-server
It is detrimental for operating systems to provide, or install by default, functionality exceeding requirements or mission objectives. These unnecessary capabilities are often overlooked and therefore may remain unsecure. They increase the risk to the platform by providing additional attack vectors.
The telnet service provides an unencrypted remote access service which does not provide for the confidentiality and integrity of user passwords or the remote session. If a privileged user were to login using this service, the privileged user password could be compromised.
Removing the telnet-server package decreases the risk of the telnet service's accidental (or intentional) activation.
Req-2.2.2 Uninstall ypserv Package The ypserv package can be removed with the following command:
$ sudo yum erase ypserv
The NIS service provides an unencrypted authentication service which does not provide for the confidentiality and integrity of user passwords or the remote session. Removing the ypserv package decreases the risk of the accidental (or intentional) activation of NIS or NIS+ services.
Req-2.2.4 Limit Users' SSH Access By default, the SSH configuration allows any user with an account to access the system. There are several options available to limit which users and group can access the system via SSH. It is recommended that at least one of the following options be leveraged: - AllowUsers variable gives the system administrator the option of allowing specific users to ssh into the system. The list consists of space separated user names. Numeric user IDs are not recognized with this variable. If a system administrator wants to restrict user access further by specifically allowing a user's access only from a particular host, the entry can be specified in the form of user@host. - AllowGroups variable gives the system administrator the option of allowing specific groups of users to ssh into the system. The list consists of space separated group names. Numeric group IDs are not recognized with this variable. - DenyUsers variable gives the system administrator the option of denying specific users to ssh into the system. The list consists of space separated user names. Numeric user IDs are not recognized with this variable. If a system administrator wants to restrict user access further by specifically denying a user's access from a particular host, the entry can be specified in the form of user@host. - DenyGroups variable gives the system administrator the option of denying specific groups of users to ssh into the system. The list consists of space separated group names. Numeric group IDs are not recognized with this variable. Specifying which accounts are allowed SSH access into the system reduces the possibility of unauthorized access to the system.
Req-2.2.4 Do Not Allow SSH Environment Options Ensure that users are not able to override environment variables of the SSH daemon.
The default SSH configuration disables environment processing. The appropriate configuration is used if no value is set for PermitUserEnvironment.
To explicitly disable Environment options, add or correct the following /etc/ssh/sshd_config:
PermitUserEnvironment no
SSH environment options potentially allow users to bypass access restriction in some configurations.
Req-2.2.4 Set SSH Daemon LogLevel to VERBOSE The VERBOSE parameter configures the SSH daemon to record login and logout activity. To specify the log level in SSH, add or correct the following line in /etc/ssh/sshd_config:
LogLevel VERBOSE
SSH provides several logging levels with varying amounts of verbosity. DEBUG is specifically not recommended other than strictly for debugging SSH communications since it provides so much data that it is difficult to identify important security information. INFO or VERBOSE level is the basic level that only records login activity of SSH users. In many situations, such as Incident Response, it is important to determine when a particular user was active on a system. The logout record can eliminate those users who disconnected, which helps narrow the field.
Req-2.2.4 Disable SSH Root Login The root user should never be allowed to login to a system directly over a network. To disable root login via SSH, add or correct the following line in /etc/ssh/sshd_config:
PermitRootLogin no
Even though the communications channel may be encrypted, an additional layer of security is gained by extending the policy of not logging directly on as root. In addition, logging in with a user-specific account provides individual accountability of actions performed on the system and also helps to minimize direct attack attempts on root's password.
Req-2.2.4 Verify Permissions on SSH Server Public *.pub Key Files To properly set the permissions of /etc/ssh/*.pub, run the command:
$ sudo chmod 0644 /etc/ssh/*.pub
If a public host key file is modified by an unauthorized user, the SSH service may be compromised.
Req-2.2.4 Enable SSH Warning Banner To enable the warning banner and ensure it is consistent across the system, add or correct the following line in /etc/ssh/sshd_config:
Banner /etc/issue
Another section contains information on how to create an appropriate system-wide warning banner.
The warning message reinforces policy awareness during the logon process and facilitates possible legal action against attackers. Alternatively, systems whose ownership should not be obvious should ensure usage of a banner that does not provide easy attribution.
Req-2.2.4 Verify Permissions on SSH Server Private *_key Key Files SSH server private keys - files that match the /etc/ssh/*_key glob, have to have restricted permissions. If those files are owned by the root user and the root group, they have to have the 0600 permission or stricter. If they are owned by the root user, but by a dedicated group ssh_keys, they can have the 0640 permission or stricter. If an unauthorized user obtains the private SSH host key file, the host could be impersonated.
Req-2.2.4 Disable SSH Access via Empty Passwords Disallow SSH login with empty passwords. The default SSH configuration disables logins with empty passwords. The appropriate configuration is used if no value is set for PermitEmptyPasswords.
To explicitly disallow SSH login from accounts with empty passwords, add or correct the following line in /etc/ssh/sshd_config:
PermitEmptyPasswords no
Any accounts with empty passwords should be disabled immediately, and PAM configuration should prevent users from being able to assign themselves empty passwords.
Configuring this setting for the SSH daemon provides additional assurance that remote login via SSH will require a password, even in the event of misconfiguration elsewhere.
Req-2.3 Use Only Strong Key Exchange algorithms Limit the Key Exchange to strong algorithms. The following line in /etc/ssh/sshd_config demonstrates use of those:
KexAlgorithms ecdh-sha2-nistp256,ecdh-sha2-nistp384,ecdh-sha2-nistp521,diffie-hellman-group-exchange-sha256,diffie-hellman-group16-sha512,diffie-hellman-group18-sha512,diffie-hellman-group14-sha256
Key exchange is any method in cryptography by which cryptographic keys are exchanged between two parties, allowing use of a cryptographic algorithm. If the sender and receiver wish to exchange encrypted messages, each must be equipped to encrypt messages to be sent and decrypt messages received
Req-3.2 Disable core dump backtraces The ProcessSizeMax option in [Coredump] section of /etc/systemd/coredump.conf specifies the maximum size in bytes of a core which will be processed. Core dumps exceeding this size may be stored, but the backtrace will not be generated. A core dump includes a memory image taken at the time the operating system terminates an application. The memory image could contain sensitive data and is generally useful only for developers or system operators trying to debug problems. Enabling core dumps on production systems is not recommended, however there may be overriding operational requirements to enable advanced debuging. Permitting temporary enablement of core dumps during such situations should be reviewed through local needs and policy.
Req-3.2 Disable storing core dump The Storage option in [Coredump] sectionof /etc/systemd/coredump.conf can be set to none to disable storing core dumps permanently. A core dump includes a memory image taken at the time the operating system terminates an application. The memory image could contain sensitive data and is generally useful only for developers or system operators trying to debug problems. Enabling core dumps on production systems is not recommended, however there may be overriding operational requirements to enable advanced debuging. Permitting temporary enablement of core dumps during such situations should be reviewed through local needs and policy.
Req-4.1 Install libreswan Package The libreswan package provides an implementation of IPsec and IKE, which permits the creation of secure tunnels over untrusted networks. The libreswan package can be installed with the following command:
$ sudo yum install libreswan
Providing the ability for remote users or systems to initiate a secure VPN connection protects information when it is transmitted over a wide area network.
Req-4.1 Install strongswan Package The Strongswan package provides an implementation of IPsec and IKE, which permits the creation of secure tunnels over untrusted networks. The strongswan package can be installed with the following command:
$ sudo yum install strongswan
Providing the ability for remote users or systems to initiate a secure VPN connection protects information when it is transmitted over a wide area network.
Req-6.2 Ensure Amazon GPG Key Installed To ensure the system can cryptographically verify base software packages come from Amazon (and to connect to the Amazon Network to receive them), the Amazon GPG key must properly be installed. To install the Amazon GPG key, run:
$ sudo rpm --import /etc/pki/rpm-gpg/RPM-GPG-KEY-amazon-linux-2023
Changes to software components can have significant effects on the overall security of the operating system. This requirement ensures the software has not been tampered with and that it has been provided by a trusted vendor. The Amazon GPG key is necessary to cryptographically verify packages are from Amazon.
Req-6.2 Ensure SUSE GPG Key Installed To ensure the system can cryptographically verify base software packages come from SUSE (and to connect to the SUSE to receive them), the SUSE GPG key must properly be installed. To install the SUSE GPG key, run:
$ sudo zypper install suse-build-key
If the system is not connected to the Internet or an RHN Satellite, then install the SUSE GPG key from trusted media such as the SUSE installation CD-ROM or DVD. Assuming the disc is mounted in /media/cdrom, use the following command as the root user to import it into the keyring:
$ sudo rpm --import /media/cdrom/content.key
or
$ sudo rpm --import /media/cdrom/repodata/repomd.xml.key
Alternatively, the key may be pre-loaded during the SUSE installation. In such cases, one can use the repository cache files to install the key, for example by running the following command:
sudo rpm --import /var/cache/zypp/raw/Basesystem_Module_15_SP2_x86_64:SLE-Module-Basesystem15-SP2-Pool/repodata/repomd.xml.key
Changes to software components can have significant effects on the overall security of the operating system. This requirement ensures the software has not been tampered with and that it has been provided by a trusted vendor. The SUSE GPG key is necessary to cryptographically verify packages are from SUSE.
Req-6.2 Ensure Software Patches Installed If the system is joined to the ULN or a yum server, run the following command to install updates:
$ sudo yum update
If the system is not configured to use one of these sources, updates (in the form of RPM packages) can be manually downloaded from the ULN and installed using rpm.

NOTE: U.S. Defense systems are required to be patched within 30 days or sooner as local policy dictates.
Installing software updates is a fundamental mitigation against the exploitation of publicly-known vulnerabilities. If the most recent security patches and updates are not installed, unauthorized users may take advantage of weaknesses in the unpatched software. The lack of prompt attention to patching could result in a system compromise.
Req-6.2 Ensure Oracle Linux GPG Key Installed To ensure the system can cryptographically verify base software packages come from Oracle (and to connect to the Unbreakable Linux Network to receive them), the Oracle GPG key must properly be installed. To install the Oracle GPG key, run:
$ sudo uln_register
If the system is not connected to the Internet, then install the Oracle GPG key from trusted media such as the Oracle installation CD-ROM or DVD. Assuming the disc is mounted in /media/cdrom, use the following command as the root user to import it into the keyring:
$ sudo rpm --import /media/cdrom/RPM-GPG-KEY-oracle
Alternatively, the key may be pre-loaded during the Oracle installation. In such cases, the key can be installed by running the following command:
sudo rpm --import /etc/pki/rpm-gpg/RPM-GPG-KEY-oracle
Changes to software components can have significant effects on the overall security of the operating system. This requirement ensures the software has not been tampered with and that it has been provided by a trusted vendor. The Oracle GPG key is necessary to cryptographically verify packages are from Oracle.
Req-6.2 Ensure Fedora GPG Key Installed To ensure the system can cryptographically verify base software packages come from Fedora (and to connect to the Fedora Network to receive them), the Fedora GPG key must properly be installed. To install the Fedora GPG key, run one of the commands below, depending on your Fedora vesion:
$ sudo rpm --import /etc/pki/rpm-gpg/RPM-GPG-KEY-fedora--primary
"
$ sudo rpm --import /etc/pki/rpm-gpg/RPM-GPG-KEY-fedora--primary
"
Changes to software components can have significant effects on the overall security of the operating system. This requirement ensures the software has not been tampered with and that it has been provided by a trusted vendor. The Fedora GPG key is necessary to cryptographically verify packages are from Fedora."
Req-6.2 Ensure gpgcheck Enabled In Main yum Configuration The gpgcheck option controls whether RPM packages' signatures are always checked prior to installation. To configure yum to check package signatures before installing them, ensure the following line appears in /etc/yum.conf in the [main] section:
gpgcheck=1
Changes to any software components can have significant effects on the overall security of the operating system. This requirement ensures the software has not been tampered with and that it has been provided by a trusted vendor.
Accordingly, patches, service packs, device drivers, or operating system components must be signed with a certificate recognized and approved by the organization.
Verifying the authenticity of the software prior to installation validates the integrity of the patch or upgrade received from a vendor. This ensures the software has not been tampered with and that it has been provided by a trusted vendor. Self-signed certificates are disallowed by this requirement. Certificates used to verify the software must be from an approved Certificate Authority (CA).
Req-6.2 Make sure that the dconf databases are up-to-date with regards to respective keyfiles By default, DConf uses a binary database as a data backend. The system-level database is compiled from keyfiles in the /etc/dconf/db/ directory by the
dconf update
command. More specifically, content present in the following directories:
/etc/dconf/db/local.d
/etc/dconf/db/local.d
Unlike text-based keyfiles, the binary database is impossible to check by OVAL. Therefore, in order to evaluate dconf configuration, both have to be true at the same time - configuration files have to be compliant, and the database needs to be more recent than those keyfiles, which gives confidence that it reflects them.
Req-6.2 Ensure gpgcheck Enabled for All yum Package Repositories To ensure signature checking is not disabled for any repos, remove any lines from files in /etc/yum.repos.d of the form:
gpgcheck=0
Verifying the authenticity of the software prior to installation validates the integrity of the patch or upgrade received from a vendor. This ensures the software has not been tampered with and that it has been provided by a trusted vendor. Self-signed certificates are disallowed by this requirement. Certificates used to verify the software must be from an approved Certificate Authority (CA)."
Req-6.2 Ensure Red Hat GPG Key Installed To ensure the system can cryptographically verify base software packages come from Red Hat (and to connect to the Red Hat Network to receive them), the Red Hat GPG key must properly be installed. To install the Red Hat GPG key, run:
$ sudo subscription-manager register
If the system is not connected to the Internet or an RHN Satellite, then install the Red Hat GPG key from trusted media such as the Red Hat installation CD-ROM or DVD. Assuming the disc is mounted in /media/cdrom, use the following command as the root user to import it into the keyring:
$ sudo rpm --import /media/cdrom/RPM-GPG-KEY
Alternatively, the key may be pre-loaded during the RHEL installation. In such cases, the key can be installed by running the following command:
sudo rpm --import /etc/pki/rpm-gpg/RPM-GPG-KEY-redhat-release
Changes to software components can have significant effects on the overall security of the operating system. This requirement ensures the software has not been tampered with and that it has been provided by a trusted vendor. The Red Hat GPG key is necessary to cryptographically verify packages are from Red Hat.
Req-7.1 Verify /boot/grub2/user.cfg Group Ownership The file /boot/grub2/user.cfg should be group-owned by the root group to prevent reading or modification of the file. To properly set the group owner of /boot/grub2/user.cfg, run the command:
$ sudo chgrp root /boot/grub2/user.cfg
The root group is a highly-privileged group. Furthermore, the group-owner of this file should not have any access privileges anyway. Non-root users who read the boot parameters may be able to identify weaknesses in security upon boot and be able to exploit them.
Req-7.1 Verify /boot/grub2/grub.cfg User Ownership The file /boot/grub2/grub.cfg should be owned by the root user to prevent destruction or modification of the file. To properly set the owner of /boot/grub2/grub.cfg, run the command:
$ sudo chown root /boot/grub2/grub.cfg 
Only root should be able to modify important boot parameters.
Req-7.1 Verify the UEFI Boot Loader grub.cfg Group Ownership The file /boot/efi/EFI/redhat/grub.cfg should be group-owned by the root group to prevent destruction or modification of the file. To properly set the group owner of /boot/efi/EFI/redhat/grub.cfg, run the command:
$ sudo chgrp root /boot/efi/EFI/redhat/grub.cfg
The root group is a highly-privileged group. Furthermore, the group-owner of this file should not have any access privileges anyway.
Req-7.1 Verify /boot/grub2/grub.cfg Group Ownership The file /boot/grub2/grub.cfg should be group-owned by the root group to prevent destruction or modification of the file. To properly set the group owner of /boot/grub2/grub.cfg, run the command:
$ sudo chgrp root /boot/grub2/grub.cfg
The root group is a highly-privileged group. Furthermore, the group-owner of this file should not have any access privileges anyway.
Req-7.1 Verify the UEFI Boot Loader grub.cfg User Ownership The file /boot/efi/EFI/redhat/grub.cfg should be owned by the root user to prevent destruction or modification of the file. To properly set the owner of /boot/efi/EFI/redhat/grub.cfg, run the command:
$ sudo chown root /boot/efi/EFI/redhat/grub.cfg 
Only root should be able to modify important boot parameters.
Req-7.1 Verify /boot/efi/EFI/redhat/user.cfg User Ownership The file /boot/efi/EFI/redhat/user.cfg should be owned by the root user to prevent reading or modification of the file. To properly set the owner of /boot/efi/EFI/redhat/user.cfg, run the command:
$ sudo chown root /boot/efi/EFI/redhat/user.cfg 
Only root should be able to modify important boot parameters. Also, non-root users who read the boot parameters may be able to identify weaknesses in security upon boot and be able to exploit them.
Req-7.1 Verify /boot/efi/EFI/redhat/user.cfg Group Ownership The file /boot/efi/EFI/redhat/user.cfg should be group-owned by the root group to prevent reading or modification of the file. To properly set the group owner of /boot/efi/EFI/redhat/user.cfg, run the command:
$ sudo chgrp root /boot/efi/EFI/redhat/user.cfg
The root group is a highly-privileged group. Furthermore, the group-owner of this file should not have any access privileges anyway. Non-root users who read the boot parameters may be able to identify weaknesses in security upon boot and be able to exploit them.
Req-7.1 Verify /boot/grub2/user.cfg User Ownership The file /boot/grub2/user.cfg should be owned by the root user to prevent reading or modification of the file. To properly set the owner of /boot/grub2/user.cfg, run the command:
$ sudo chown root /boot/grub2/user.cfg 
Only root should be able to modify important boot parameters. Also, non-root users who read the boot parameters may be able to identify weaknesses in security upon boot and be able to exploit them.
Req-8.1.1 Ensure All Accounts on the System Have Unique Names Ensure accounts on the system have unique names. To ensure all accounts have unique names, run the following command:
$ sudo getent passwd | awk -F: '{ print $1}' | uniq -d
If a username is returned, change or delete the username.
Unique usernames allow for accountability on the system.
Req-8.1.1 Verify Root Has A Primary GID 0 The root user should have a primary group of 0. To help ensure that root-owned files are not inadvertently exposed to other users.
Req-8.1.1 Ensure All Accounts on the System Have Unique User IDs Change user IDs (UIDs), or delete accounts, so each has a unique name. To assure accountability and prevent unauthenticated access, interactive users must be identified and authenticated to prevent potential misuse and compromise of the system.
Req-8.1.4 Set existing passwords a period of inactivity before they been locked Configure user accounts that have been inactive for over a given period of time to be automatically disabled by running the following command:
$ sudo chage --inactive 30USER
Inactive accounts pose a threat to system security since the users are not logging in to notice failed login attempts or other anomalies.
Req-8.1.4 Set Account Expiration Following Inactivity To specify the number of days after a password expires (which signifies inactivity) until an account is permanently disabled, add or correct the following line in /etc/default/useradd:
INACTIVE=35
If a password is currently on the verge of expiration, then 35 day(s) remain(s) until the account is automatically disabled. However, if the password will not expire for another 60 days, then 60 days plus 35 day(s) could elapse until the account would be automatically disabled. See the useradd man page for more information.
Inactive identifiers pose a risk to systems and applications because attackers may exploit an inactive identifier and potentially obtain undetected access to the system. Disabling inactive accounts ensures that accounts which may not have been responsibly removed are not available to attackers who may have compromised their credentials. Owners of inactive accounts will not notice if unauthorized access to their user account has been obtained.
Req-8.1.6 Set Deny For Failed Password Attempts The Oracle Linux 7 operating system must lock an account after - at most - 3 consecutive invalid access attempts. By limiting the number of failed logon attempts, the risk of unauthorized system access via user password guessing, otherwise known as brute-force attacks, is reduced. Limits are imposed by locking the account. To configure the operating system to lock an account after three unsuccessful consecutive access attempts using pam_tally2.so, modify the content of both /etc/pam.d/common-auth and /etc/pam.d/common-account as follows:

  • add or modify the pam_tally2.so module line in /etc/pam.d/common-auth to ensure both onerr=fail and deny= are present. For example:
    auth required pam_tally2.so onerr=fail silent audit deny=
  • add or modify the following line in /etc/pam.d/common-account:
    account required pam_tally2.so
Req-8.1.6 Lock Accounts After Failed Password Attempts This rule configures the system to lock out accounts after a number of incorrect login attempts using pam_faillock.so. pam_faillock.so module requires multiple entries in pam files. These entries must be carefully defined to work as expected. Ensure that the file /etc/security/faillock.conf contains the following entry: deny = <count> Where count should be less than or equal to 3 and greater than 0. In order to avoid errors when manually editing these files, it is recommended to use the appropriate tools, such as authselect or authconfig, depending on the OS version. By limiting the number of failed logon attempts, the risk of unauthorized system access via user password guessing, also known as brute-forcing, is reduced. Limits are imposed by locking the account.
Req-8.1.6
Req-8.1.7
Set Password Retry Limit The pam_cracklib module's retry parameter controls the maximum number of times to prompt the user for the password before returning with error. Make sure it is configured with a value that is no more than 3. For example, retry=1. To reduce opportunities for successful guesses and brute-force attacks.
Req-8.1.7 Set Lockout Time for Failed Password Attempts using pam_tally2 This rule configures the system to lock out accounts during a specified time period after a number of incorrect login attempts using pam_tally2.so. By limiting the number of failed logon attempts, the risk of unauthorized system access via user password guessing, also known as brute-forcing, is reduced. Limits are imposed by locking the account.
Req-8.1.7 Set Lockout Time for Failed Password Attempts This rule configures the system to lock out accounts during a specified time period after a number of incorrect login attempts using pam_faillock.so. Ensure that the file /etc/security/faillock.conf contains the following entry: unlock_time=<interval-in-seconds> where interval-in-seconds is 0 or greater. pam_faillock.so module requires multiple entries in pam files. These entries must be carefully defined to work as expected. In order to avoid any errors when manually editing these files, it is recommended to use the appropriate tools, such as authselect or authconfig, depending on the OS version. If unlock_time is set to 0, manual intervention by an administrator is required to unlock a user. This should be done using the faillock tool. By limiting the number of failed logon attempts the risk of unauthorized system access via user password guessing, otherwise known as brute-forcing, is reduced. Limits are imposed by locking the account.
Req-8.1.8 Set GNOME3 Screensaver Inactivity Timeout The idle time-out value for inactivity in the GNOME3 desktop is configured via the idle-delay setting must be set under an appropriate configuration file(s) in the /etc/dconf/db/local.d directory and locked in /etc/dconf/db/local.d/locks directory to prevent user modification.

For example, to configure the system for a 15 minute delay, add the following to /etc/dconf/db/local.d/00-security-settings:
[org/gnome/desktop/session]
idle-delay=uint32 900
A session time-out lock is a temporary action taken when a user stops work and moves away from the immediate physical vicinity of the information system but does not logout because of the temporary nature of the absence. Rather than relying on the user to manually lock their operating system session prior to vacating the vicinity, GNOME3 can be configured to identify when a user's session has idled and take action to initiate a session lock.
Req-8.1.8 Set SSH Client Alive Interval SSH allows administrators to set a network responsiveness timeout interval. After this interval has passed, the unresponsive client will be automatically logged out.

To set this timeout interval, edit the following line in /etc/ssh/sshd_config as follows:
ClientAliveInterval 300


The timeout interval is given in seconds. For example, have a timeout of 10 minutes, set interval to 600.

If a shorter timeout has already been set for the login shell, that value will preempt any SSH setting made in /etc/ssh/sshd_config. Keep in mind that some processes may stop SSH from correctly detecting that the user is idle.
Terminating an idle ssh session within a short time period reduces the window of opportunity for unauthorized personnel to take control of a management session enabled on the console or console port that has been let unattended.
Req-8.1.8 Set SSH Client Alive Count Max The SSH server sends at most ClientAliveCountMax messages during a SSH session and waits for a response from the SSH client. The option ClientAliveInterval configures timeout after each ClientAliveCountMax message. If the SSH server does not receive a response from the client, then the connection is considered unresponsive and terminated. For SSH earlier than v8.2, a ClientAliveCountMax value of 0 causes a timeout precisely when the ClientAliveInterval is set. Starting with v8.2, a value of 0 disables the timeout functionality completely. If the option is set to a number greater than 0, then the session will be disconnected after ClientAliveInterval * ClientAliveCountMax seconds without receiving a keep alive message. This ensures a user login will be terminated as soon as the ClientAliveInterval is reached.
Req-8.1.8 Configure Logind to terminate idle sessions after certain time of inactivity To configure logind service to terminate inactive user sessions after 300 seconds, edit the file /etc/systemd/logind.conf. Ensure that there is a section
[Login]
which contains the configuration
StopIdleSessionSec=300
.
Terminating an idle session within a short time period reduces the window of opportunity for unauthorized personnel to take control of a management session enabled on the console or console port that has been let unattended.
Req-8.1.8 Ensure Users Cannot Change GNOME3 Screensaver Idle Activation If not already configured, ensure that users cannot change GNOME3 screensaver lock settings by adding
/org/gnome/desktop/screensaver/idle-activation-enabled
to /etc/dconf/db/local.d/00-security-settings. For example:
/org/gnome/desktop/screensaver/idle-activation-enabled
After the settings have been set, run dconf update.
A session lock is a temporary action taken when a user stops work and moves away from the immediate physical vicinity of the information system but does not want to logout because of the temporary nature of the absense.
Req-8.1.8 Set GNOME3 Screensaver Lock Delay After Activation Period To activate the locking delay of the screensaver in the GNOME3 desktop when the screensaver is activated, add or set lock-delay to uint32 0 in /etc/dconf/db/local.d/00-security-settings. For example:
[org/gnome/desktop/screensaver]
lock-delay=uint32 0
After the settings have been set, run dconf update.
A session lock is a temporary action taken when a user stops work and moves away from the immediate physical vicinity of the information system but does not want to logout because of the temporary nature of the absense.
Req-8.1.8 Implement Blank Screensaver To set the screensaver mode in the GNOME3 desktop to a blank screen, add or set picture-uri to string '' in /etc/dconf/db/local.d/00-security-settings. For example:
[org/gnome/desktop/screensaver]
picture-uri=string ''
Once the settings have been added, add a lock to /etc/dconf/db/local.d/locks/00-security-settings-lock to prevent user modification. For example:
/org/gnome/desktop/screensaver/picture-uri
After the settings have been set, run dconf update.
Setting the screensaver mode to blank-only conceals the contents of the display from passersby.
Req-8.1.8 Enable GNOME3 Screensaver Lock After Idle Period To activate locking of the screensaver in the GNOME3 desktop when it is activated, add or set lock-enabled to true in /etc/dconf/db/local.d/00-security-settings. For example:
[org/gnome/desktop/screensaver]
lock-enabled=true
Once the settings have been added, add a lock to /etc/dconf/db/local.d/locks/00-security-settings-lock to prevent user modification. For example:
/org/gnome/desktop/screensaver/lock-enabled
After the settings have been set, run dconf update.
A session lock is a temporary action taken when a user stops work and moves away from the immediate physical vicinity of the information system but does not want to logout because of the temporary nature of the absense.
Req-8.1.8 Enable GNOME3 Screensaver Idle Activation To activate the screensaver in the GNOME3 desktop after a period of inactivity, add or set idle-activation-enabled to true in /etc/dconf/db/local.d/00-security-settings. For example:
[org/gnome/desktop/screensaver]
idle-activation-enabled=true
Once the setting has been added, add a lock to /etc/dconf/db/local.d/locks/00-security-settings-lock to prevent user modification. For example:
/org/gnome/desktop/screensaver/idle-activation-enabled
After the settings have been set, run dconf update.
A session time-out lock is a temporary action taken when a user stops work and moves away from the immediate physical vicinity of the information system but does not logout because of the temporary nature of the absence. Rather than relying on the user to manually lock their operating system session prior to vacating the vicinity, GNOME desktops can be configured to identify when a user's session has idled and take action to initiate the session lock.

Enabling idle activation of the screensaver ensures the screensaver will be activated after the idle delay. Applications requiring continuous, real-time screen display (such as network management products) require the login session does not have administrator rights and the display station is located in a controlled-access area.
Req-8.1.8 Ensure Users Cannot Change GNOME3 Screensaver Lock After Idle Period If not already configured, ensure that users cannot change GNOME3 screensaver lock settings by adding
/org/gnome/desktop/screensaver/lock-enabled
to /etc/dconf/db/local.d/locks/00-security-settings. For example:
/org/gnome/desktop/screensaver/lock-enabled
After the settings have been set, run dconf update.
A session lock is a temporary action taken when a user stops work and moves away from the immediate physical vicinity of the information system but does not want to logout because of the temporary nature of the absense.
Req-8.1.8 Set SSH Client Alive Count Max to zero The SSH server sends at most ClientAliveCountMax messages during a SSH session and waits for a response from the SSH client. The option ClientAliveInterval configures timeout after each ClientAliveCountMax message. If the SSH server does not receive a response from the client, then the connection is considered unresponsive and terminated. To ensure the SSH timeout occurs precisely when the ClientAliveInterval is set, set the ClientAliveCountMax to value of 0 in /etc/ssh/sshd_config: This ensures a user login will be terminated as soon as the ClientAliveInterval is reached.
Req-8.1.8 Ensure Users Cannot Change GNOME3 Session Idle Settings If not already configured, ensure that users cannot change GNOME3 session idle settings by adding /org/gnome/desktop/session/idle-delay to /etc/dconf/db/local.d/locks/00-security-settings-lock to prevent user modification. For example:
/org/gnome/desktop/session/idle-delay
After the settings have been set, run dconf update.
A session time-out lock is a temporary action taken when a user stops work and moves away from the immediate physical vicinity of the information system but does not logout because of the temporary nature of the absence. Rather than relying on the user to manually lock their operating system session prior to vacating the vicinity, GNOME desktops can be configured to identify when a user's session has idled and take action to initiate the session lock. As such, users should not be allowed to change session settings.
Req-8.2.1 Set PAM''s Password Hashing Algorithm - password-auth The PAM system service can be configured to only store encrypted representations of passwords. In /etc/pam.d/password-auth, the password section of the file controls which PAM modules to execute during a password change. Set the pam_unix.so module in the password section to include the option sha512 and no other hashing algorithms as shown below:
password    sufficient    pam_unix.so sha512 other arguments...

This will help ensure that new passwords for local users will be stored using the sha512 algorithm.
Passwords need to be protected at all times, and encryption is the standard method for protecting passwords. If passwords are not encrypted, they can be plainly read (i.e., clear text) and easily compromised. Passwords that are encrypted with a weak algorithm are no more protected than if they are kept in plain text.

This setting ensures user and group account administration utilities are configured to store only encrypted representations of passwords. Additionally, the crypt_style configuration option in /etc/libuser.conf ensures the use of a strong hashing algorithm that makes password cracking attacks more difficult.
Req-8.2.1 Set Password Hashing Algorithm in /etc/login.defs In /etc/login.defs, add or update the following line to ensure the system will use SHA512 as the hashing algorithm:
ENCRYPT_METHOD SHA512
Passwords need to be protected at all times, and encryption is the standard method for protecting passwords. If passwords are not encrypted, they can be plainly read (i.e., clear text) and easily compromised. Passwords that are encrypted with a weak algorithm are no more protected than if they are kept in plain text.

Using a stronger hashing algorithm makes password cracking attacks more difficult.
Req-8.2.1 Ensure shadow Group is Empty The shadow group allows system programs which require access the ability to read the /etc/shadow file. No users should be assigned to the shadow group. Any users assigned to the shadow group would be granted read access to the /etc/shadow file. If attackers can gain read access to the /etc/shadow file, they can easily run a password cracking program against the hashed passwords to break them. Other security information that is stored in the /etc/shadow file (such as expiration) could also be useful to subvert additional user accounts.
Req-8.2.1 Set Password Hashing Algorithm in /etc/libuser.conf In /etc/libuser.conf, add or correct the following line in its [defaults] section to ensure the system will use the sha512 algorithm for password hashing:
crypt_style = sha512
Passwords need to be protected at all times, and encryption is the standard method for protecting passwords. If passwords are not encrypted, they can be plainly read (i.e., clear text) and easily compromised. Passwords that are encrypted with a weak algorithm are no more protected than if they are kept in plain text.

This setting ensures user and group account administration utilities are configured to store only encrypted representations of passwords. Additionally, the crypt_style configuration option in /etc/libuser.conf ensures the use of a strong hashing algorithm that makes password cracking attacks more difficult.
Req-8.2.1 Set PAM's Common Authentication Hashing Algorithm The PAM system service can be configured to only store encrypted representations of passwords. In /etc/pam.d/common-auth, the auth section of the file controls which PAM modules execute during a password change. Set the pam_unix.so module in the auth section to include the argument sha512, as shown below:
auth   required    pam_unix.so sha512 other arguments...

This will help ensure when local users change their authentication method, hashes for the new authentications will be generated using the SHA-512 algorithm. This is the default.
Unapproved mechanisms used for authentication to the cryptographic module are not verified and therefore cannot be relied on to provide confidentiality or integrity, and data may be compromised. This setting ensures user and group account administration utilities are configured to store only encrypted representations of passwords. Additionally, the crypt_style configuration option ensures the use of a strong hashing algorithm that makes password cracking attacks more difficult.
Req-8.2.1 Verify All Account Password Hashes are Shadowed If any password hashes are stored in /etc/passwd (in the second field, instead of an x or *), the cause of this misconfiguration should be investigated. The account should have its password reset and the hash should be properly stored, or the account should be deleted entirely. The hashes for all user account passwords should be stored in the file /etc/shadow and never in /etc/passwd, which is readable by all users.
Req-8.2.1 Set PAM''s Password Hashing Algorithm The PAM system service can be configured to only store encrypted representations of passwords. In "/etc/pam.d/system-auth", the password section of the file controls which PAM modules to execute during a password change. Set the pam_unix.so module in the password section to include the option sha512 and no other hashing algorithms as shown below:
password    sufficient    pam_unix.so sha512 other arguments...

This will help ensure that new passwords for local users will be stored using the sha512 algorithm.
Passwords need to be protected at all times, and encryption is the standard method for protecting passwords. If passwords are not encrypted, they can be plainly read (i.e., clear text) and easily compromised. Passwords that are encrypted with a weak algorithm are no more protected than if they are kept in plain text.

This setting ensures user and group account administration utilities are configured to store only encrypted representations of passwords. Additionally, the crypt_style configuration option in /etc/libuser.conf ensures the use of a strong hashing algorithm that makes password cracking attacks more difficult.
Req-8.2.3 Set Password Strength Minimum Special Characters The pam_cracklib module's ocredit= parameter controls requirements for usage of special (or ``other'') characters in a password. When set to a negative number, any password will be required to contain that many special characters. When set to a positive number, pam_cracklib will grant +1 additional length credit for each special character. Make sure the ocredit parameter for the pam_cracklib module is set to less than or equal to -1. For example, ocredit=-1. Requiring a minimum number of special characters makes password guessing attacks more difficult by ensuring a larger search space.
Req-8.2.3 Ensure PAM Enforces Password Requirements - Minimum Uppercase Characters The pam_pwquality module's ucredit= parameter controls requirements for usage of uppercase letters in a password. When set to a negative number, any password will be required to contain that many uppercase characters. When set to a positive number, pam_pwquality will grant +1 additional length credit for each uppercase character. Modify the ucredit setting in /etc/security/pwquality.conf to require the use of an uppercase character in passwords. Use of a complex password helps to increase the time and resources required to compromise the password. Password complexity, or strength, is a measure of the effectiveness of a password in resisting attempts at guessing and brute-force attacks.

Password complexity is one factor of several that determines how long it takes to crack a password. The more complex the password, the greater the number of possible combinations that need to be tested before the password is compromised.
Req-8.2.3 Set Password Minimum Length The pam_cracklib module's minlen parameter controls requirements for minimum characters required in a password. Add minlen=15 to set minimum password length requirements. Password length is one factor of several that helps to determine strength and how long it takes to crack a password. Use of more characters in a password helps to exponentially increase the time and/or resources required to compromise the password.
Req-8.2.3 Prevent Login to Accounts With Empty Password If an account is configured for password authentication but does not have an assigned password, it may be possible to log into the account without authentication. Remove any instances of the nullok in /etc/pam.d/system-auth and /etc/pam.d/password-auth to prevent logins with empty passwords. If an account has an empty password, anyone could log in and run commands with the privileges of that account. Accounts with empty passwords should never be used in operational environments.
Req-8.2.3 Set Password Strength Minimum Uppercase Characters The pam_cracklib module's ucredit= parameter controls requirements for usage of uppercase letters in a password. When set to a negative number, any password will be required to contain that many uppercase characters. When set to a positive number, pam_cracklib will grant +1 additional length credit for each uppercase character. Add ucredit=-1 after pam_cracklib.so to require use of an upper case character in passwords. Requiring a minimum number of uppercase characters makes password guessing attacks more difficult by ensuring a larger search space.
Req-8.2.3 Set Password Strength Minimum Digit Characters The pam_cracklib module's dcredit parameter controls requirements for usage of digits in a password. When set to a negative number, any password will be required to contain that many digits. When set to a positive number, pam_cracklib will grant +1 additional length credit for each digit. Add dcredit=-1 after pam_cracklib.so to require use of a digit in passwords. Requiring digits makes password guessing attacks more difficult by ensuring a larger search space.
Req-8.2.3 Ensure PAM Enforces Password Requirements - Minimum Lowercase Characters The pam_pwquality module's lcredit parameter controls requirements for usage of lowercase letters in a password. When set to a negative number, any password will be required to contain that many lowercase characters. When set to a positive number, pam_pwquality will grant +1 additional length credit for each lowercase character. Modify the lcredit setting in /etc/security/pwquality.conf to require the use of a lowercase character in passwords. Use of a complex password helps to increase the time and resources required to compromise the password. Password complexity, or strength, is a measure of the effectiveness of a password in resisting attempts at guessing and brute-force attacks.
Password complexity is one factor of several that determines how long it takes to crack a password. The more complex the password, the greater the number of possble combinations that need to be tested before the password is compromised. Requiring a minimum number of lowercase characters makes password guessing attacks more difficult by ensuring a larger search space.
Req-8.2.3 Ensure PAM Enforces Password Requirements - Minimum Digit Characters The pam_pwquality module's dcredit parameter controls requirements for usage of digits in a password. When set to a negative number, any password will be required to contain that many digits. When set to a positive number, pam_pwquality will grant +1 additional length credit for each digit. Modify the dcredit setting in /etc/security/pwquality.conf to require the use of a digit in passwords. Use of a complex password helps to increase the time and resources required to compromise the password. Password complexity, or strength, is a measure of the effectiveness of a password in resisting attempts at guessing and brute-force attacks.

Password complexity is one factor of several that determines how long it takes to crack a password. The more complex the password, the greater the number of possible combinations that need to be tested before the password is compromised. Requiring digits makes password guessing attacks more difficult by ensuring a larger search space.
Req-8.2.3 Ensure PAM Enforces Password Requirements - Minimum Length The pam_pwquality module's minlen parameter controls requirements for minimum characters required in a password. Add minlen=15 after pam_pwquality to set minimum password length requirements. The shorter the password, the lower the number of possible combinations that need to be tested before the password is compromised.
Password complexity, or strength, is a measure of the effectiveness of a password in resisting attempts at guessing and brute-force attacks. Password length is one factor of several that helps to determine strength and how long it takes to crack a password. Use of more characters in a password helps to exponentially increase the time and/or resources required to compromise the password.
Req-8.2.3 Set Password Strength Minimum Lowercase Characters The pam_cracklib module's lcredit= parameter controls requirements for usage of lowercase letters in a password. When set to a negative number, any password will be required to contain that many lowercase characters. When set to a positive number, pam_cracklib will grant +1 additional length credit for each lowercase character. Add lcredit=-1 after pam_cracklib.so to require use of a lowercase character in passwords. Requiring a minimum number of lowercase characters makes password guessing attacks more difficult by ensuring a larger search space.
Req-8.2.4 Set Password Maximum Age To specify password maximum age for new accounts, edit the file /etc/login.defs and add or correct the following line:
PASS_MAX_DAYS 60
A value of 180 days is sufficient for many environments. The DoD requirement is 60. The profile requirement is 60.
Any password, no matter how complex, can eventually be cracked. Therefore, passwords need to be changed periodically. If the operating system does not limit the lifetime of passwords and force users to change their passwords, there is the risk that the operating system passwords could be compromised.

Setting the password maximum age ensures users are required to periodically change their passwords. Requiring shorter password lifetimes increases the risk of users writing down the password in a convenient location subject to physical compromise.
Req-8.2.4 Set Password Warning Age To specify how many days prior to password expiration that a warning will be issued to users, edit the file /etc/login.defs and add or correct the following line:
PASS_WARN_AGE 7
The DoD requirement is 7. The profile requirement is 7.
Setting the password warning age enables users to make the change at a practical time.
Req-8.2.5 Limit Password Reuse Do not allow users to reuse recent passwords. This can be accomplished by using the remember option for the pam_unix or pam_pwhistory PAM modules. Preventing re-use of previous passwords helps ensure that a compromised password is not re-used by a user.
Req-8.2.5 Limit Password Reuse: password-auth Do not allow users to reuse recent passwords. This can be accomplished by using the remember option for the pam_pwhistory PAM module.

In the file /etc/pam.d/password-auth, make sure the parameter remember is present and it has a value equal to or greater than 5

For example:
password requisite pam_pwhistory.so use_authtok remember=5
Preventing re-use of previous passwords helps ensure that a compromised password is not re-used by a user.
Req-8.2.5 Limit Password Reuse: system-auth Do not allow users to reuse recent passwords. This can be accomplished by using the remember option for the pam_pwhistory PAM module.

In the file /etc/pam.d/system-auth, make sure the parameter remember is present and it has a value equal to or greater than 5

For example:
password requisite pam_pwhistory.so use_authtok remember=5
Preventing re-use of previous passwords helps ensure that a compromised password is not re-used by a user.
Req-8.3 Enable Smart Card Login To enable smart card authentication, consult the documentation at: Smart card login provides two-factor authentication stronger than that provided by a username and password combination. Smart cards leverage PKI (public key infrastructure) in order to provide and verify credentials.
Req-8.3 Enable the GNOME3 Login Smartcard Authentication In the default graphical environment, smart card authentication can be enabled on the login screen by setting enable-smartcard-authentication to true.

To enable, add or edit enable-smartcard-authentication to /etc/dconf/db/local.d/00-security-settings. For example:
[org/gnome/login-screen]
enable-smartcard-authentication=true
Once the setting has been added, add a lock to /etc/dconf/db/local.d/locks/00-security-settings-lock to prevent user modification. For example:
/org/gnome/login-screen/enable-smartcard-authentication
After the settings have been set, run dconf update.
Smart card login provides two-factor authentication stronger than that provided by a username and password combination. Smart cards leverage PKI (public key infrastructure) in order to provide and verify credentials.
Req-8.3 Enable Smartcards in SSSD SSSD should be configured to authenticate access to the system using smart cards. To enable smart cards in SSSD, set pam_cert_auth to True under the [pam] section in /etc/sssd/sssd.conf. For example:
[pam]
pam_cert_auth = True
Using an authentication device, such as a CAC or token that is separate from the information system, ensures that even if the information system is compromised, that compromise will not affect credentials stored on the authentication device.

Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) solutions that require devices separate from information systems gaining access include, for example, hardware tokens providing time-based or challenge-response authenticators and smart cards such as the U.S. Government Personal Identity Verification card and the DoD Common Access Card.
Req-8.3 Configure NSS DB To Use opensc The opensc module should be configured for use over the Coolkey PKCS#11 module in the NSS database. To configure the NSS database to use the opensc module, run the following command:
$ sudo pkcs11-switch opensc
Smart card login provides two-factor authentication stronger than that provided by a username and password combination. Smart cards leverage PKI (public key infrastructure) in order to provide and verify credentials.
Req-8.3 Configure opensc Smart Card Drivers The OpenSC smart card tool can auto-detect smart card drivers; however, setting the smart card drivers in use by your organization helps to prevent users from using unauthorized smart cards. The default smart card driver for this profile is default. To configure the OpenSC driver, edit the /etc/opensc.conf and add the following line into the file in the app default block, so it will look like:
app default {
   ...
   card_drivers = default;
}
Smart card login provides two-factor authentication stronger than that provided by a username and password combination. Smart cards leverage PKI (public key infrastructure) in order to provide and verify credentials. Configuring the smart card driver in use by your organization helps to prevent users from using unauthorized smart cards.
Req-8.3 Enable the pcscd Service The pcscd service can be enabled with the following command:
$ sudo systemctl enable pcscd.service
Using an authentication device, such as a CAC or token that is separate from the information system, ensures that even if the information system is compromised, that compromise will not affect credentials stored on the authentication device.

Multifactor solutions that require devices separate from information systems gaining access include, for example, hardware tokens providing time-based or challenge-response authenticators and smart cards such as the U.S. Government Personal Identity Verification card and the DoD Common Access Card.
Req-8.3 Install Smart Card Packages For Multifactor Authentication Configure the operating system to implement multifactor authentication by installing the required package with the following command: The pam_pkcs11 package can be installed with the following command:
$ sudo yum install pam_pkcs11
Using an authentication device, such as a CAC or token that is separate from the information system, ensures that even if the information system is compromised, that compromise will not affect credentials stored on the authentication device.

Multifactor solutions that require devices separate from information systems gaining access include, for example, hardware tokens providing time-based or challenge-response authenticators and smart cards such as the U.S. Government Personal Identity Verification card and the DoD Common Access Card.
Req-8.3 Force opensc To Use Defined Smart Card Driver The OpenSC smart card middleware can auto-detect smart card drivers; however by forcing the smart card driver in use by your organization, opensc will no longer autodetect or use other drivers unless specified. This helps to prevent users from using unauthorized smart cards. The default smart card driver for this profile is default. To force the OpenSC driver, edit the /etc/opensc.conf. Look for a line similar to:
# force_card_driver = customcos;
and change it to:
force_card_driver = default;
Smart card login provides two-factor authentication stronger than that provided by a username and password combination. Smart cards leverage PKI (public key infrastructure) in order to provide and verify credentials. Forcing the smart card driver in use by your organization helps to prevent users from using unauthorized smart cards.
Req-8.5 Verify Only Root Has UID 0 If any account other than root has a UID of 0, this misconfiguration should be investigated and the accounts other than root should be removed or have their UID changed.
If the account is associated with system commands or applications the UID should be changed to one greater than "0" but less than "1000." Otherwise assign a UID greater than "1000" that has not already been assigned.
An account has root authority if it has a UID of 0. Multiple accounts with a UID of 0 afford more opportunity for potential intruders to guess a password for a privileged account. Proper configuration of sudo is recommended to afford multiple system administrators access to root privileges in an accountable manner.
Req-8.5.a All GIDs referenced in /etc/passwd must be defined in /etc/group Add a group to the system for each GID referenced without a corresponding group. If a user is assigned the Group Identifier (GID) of a group not existing on the system, and a group with the Group Identifier (GID) is subsequently created, the user may have unintended rights to any files associated with the group.
Req-8.7 Verify Group Who Owns Backup passwd File To properly set the group owner of /etc/passwd-, run the command:
$ sudo chgrp root /etc/passwd-
The /etc/passwd- file is a backup file of /etc/passwd, and as such, it contains information about the users that are configured on the system. Protection of this file is critical for system security.
Req-8.7 Verify User Who Owns Backup gshadow File To properly set the owner of /etc/gshadow-, run the command:
$ sudo chown root /etc/gshadow- 
The /etc/gshadow- file is a backup of /etc/gshadow, and as such, it contains group password hashes. Protection of this file is critical for system security.
Req-8.7 Verify Group Who Owns Backup group File To properly set the group owner of /etc/group-, run the command:
$ sudo chgrp root /etc/group-
The /etc/group- file is a backup file of /etc/group, and as such, it contains information regarding groups that are configured on the system. Protection of this file is important for system security.
Req-8.7 Verify User Who Owns Backup shadow File To properly set the group owner of /etc/shadow-, run the command:
$ sudo chgrp root /etc/shadow-
The /etc/shadow- file is a backup file of /etc/shadow, and as such, it contains the list of local system accounts and password hashes. Protection of this file is critical for system security.
Req-8.7 Verify Group Who Owns Backup gshadow File To properly set the group owner of /etc/gshadow-, run the command:
$ sudo chgrp root /etc/gshadow-
The /etc/gshadow- file is a backup of /etc/gshadow, and as such, it contains group password hashes. Protection of this file is critical for system security.
Req-8.7.c Verify User Who Owns group File To properly set the owner of /etc/group, run the command:
$ sudo chown root /etc/group 
The /etc/group file contains information regarding groups that are configured on the system. Protection of this file is important for system security.
Req-8.7.c Verify User Who Owns passwd File To properly set the owner of /etc/passwd, run the command:
$ sudo chown root /etc/passwd 
The /etc/passwd file contains information about the users that are configured on the system. Protection of this file is critical for system security.
Req-8.7.c Verify Permissions on Backup passwd File To properly set the permissions of /etc/passwd-, run the command:
$ sudo chmod 0644 /etc/passwd-
The /etc/passwd- file is a backup file of /etc/passwd, and as such, it contains information about the users that are configured on the system. Protection of this file is critical for system security.
Req-8.7.c Verify User Who Owns shadow File To properly set the owner of /etc/shadow, run the command:
$ sudo chown root /etc/shadow 
The /etc/shadow file contains the list of local system accounts and stores password hashes. Protection of this file is critical for system security. Failure to give ownership of this file to root provides the designated owner with access to sensitive information which could weaken the system security posture.
Req-8.7.c Verify Permissions on Backup group File To properly set the permissions of /etc/group-, run the command:
$ sudo chmod 0644 /etc/group-
The /etc/group- file is a backup file of /etc/group, and as such, it contains information regarding groups that are configured on the system. Protection of this file is important for system security.
Req-8.7.c Verify User Who Owns Backup passwd File To properly set the owner of /etc/passwd-, run the command:
$ sudo chown root /etc/passwd- 
The /etc/passwd- file is a backup file of /etc/passwd, and as such, it contains information about the users that are configured on the system. Protection of this file is critical for system security.
Req-8.7.c Verify Group Who Owns Backup shadow File To properly set the owner of /etc/shadow-, run the command:
$ sudo chown root /etc/shadow- 
The /etc/shadow- file is a backup file of /etc/shadow, and as such, it contains the list of local system accounts and password hashes. Protection of this file is critical for system security.
Req-8.7.c Verify Permissions on shadow File To properly set the permissions of /etc/shadow, run the command:
$ sudo chmod 0000 /etc/shadow
The /etc/shadow file contains the list of local system accounts and stores password hashes. Protection of this file is critical for system security. Failure to give ownership of this file to root provides the designated owner with access to sensitive information which could weaken the system security posture.
Req-8.7.c Verify Permissions on Backup shadow File To properly set the permissions of /etc/shadow-, run the command:
$ sudo chmod 0000 /etc/shadow-
The /etc/shadow- file is a backup file of /etc/shadow, and as such, it contains the list of local system accounts and password hashes. Protection of this file is critical for system security.
Req-8.7.c Verify Group Who Owns group File To properly set the group owner of /etc/group, run the command:
$ sudo chgrp root /etc/group
The /etc/group file contains information regarding groups that are configured on the system. Protection of this file is important for system security.
Req-8.7.c Verify Permissions on passwd File To properly set the permissions of /etc/passwd, run the command:
$ sudo chmod 0644 /etc/passwd
If the /etc/passwd file is writable by a group-owner or the world the risk of its compromise is increased. The file contains the list of accounts on the system and associated information, and protection of this file is critical for system security.
Req-8.7.c Verify Group Who Owns passwd File To properly set the group owner of /etc/passwd, run the command:
$ sudo chgrp root /etc/passwd
The /etc/passwd file contains information about the users that are configured on the system. Protection of this file is critical for system security.
Req-8.7.c Verify User Who Owns Backup group File To properly set the owner of /etc/group-, run the command:
$ sudo chown root /etc/group- 
The /etc/group- file is a backup file of /etc/group, and as such, it contains information regarding groups that are configured on the system. Protection of this file is important for system security.
Req-8.7.c Verify Group Who Owns shadow File To properly set the group owner of /etc/shadow, run the command:
$ sudo chgrp root /etc/shadow
The /etc/shadow file stores password hashes. Protection of this file is critical for system security.
Req-8.7.c Verify Permissions on group File To properly set the permissions of /etc/group, run the command:
$ sudo chmod 0644 /etc/group
The /etc/group file contains information regarding groups that are configured on the system. Protection of this file is important for system security.
Req-10.1 Enable auditd Service The auditd service is an essential userspace component of the Linux Auditing System, as it is responsible for writing audit records to disk. The auditd service can be enabled with the following command:
$ sudo systemctl enable auditd.service
Without establishing what type of events occurred, it would be difficult to establish, correlate, and investigate the events leading up to an outage or attack. Ensuring the auditd service is active ensures audit records generated by the kernel are appropriately recorded.

Additionally, a properly configured audit subsystem ensures that actions of individual system users can be uniquely traced to those users so they can be held accountable for their actions.
Req-10.1 Ensure the audit Subsystem is Installed The audit package should be installed. The auditd service is an access monitoring and accounting daemon, watching system calls to audit any access, in comparison with potential local access control policy such as SELinux policy.
Req-10.2.1 Ensure the audit-libs package as a part of audit Subsystem is Installed The audit-libs package should be installed. The auditd service is an access monitoring and accounting daemon, watching system calls to audit any access, in comparison with potential local access control policy such as SELinux policy.
Req-10.2.2
Req-10.2.5.b
Ensure auditd Collects System Administrator Actions At a minimum, the audit system should collect administrator actions for all users and root. If the auditd daemon is configured to use the augenrules program to read audit rules during daemon startup (the default), add the following line to a file with suffix .rules in the directory /etc/audit/rules.d:
-w /etc/sudoers -p wa -k actions
-w /etc/sudoers.d/ -p wa -k actions
If the auditd daemon is configured to use the auditctl utility to read audit rules during daemon startup, add the following line to /etc/audit/audit.rules file:
-w /etc/sudoers -p wa -k actions
-w /etc/sudoers.d/ -p wa -k actions
The actions taken by system administrators should be audited to keep a record of what was executed on the system, as well as, for accountability purposes.
Req-10.2.2 Ensure auditd Collects Information on the Use of Privileged Commands The audit system should collect information about usage of privileged commands for all users. These are commands with suid or sgid bits on and they are specially risky in local block device partitions not mounted with noexec and nosuid options. Therefore, these partitions should be first identified by the following command:
findmnt -n -l -k -it $(awk '/nodev/ { print $2 }' /proc/filesystems | paste -sd,) | grep -Pv "noexec|nosuid"
For all partitions listed by the previous command, it is necessary to search for setuid / setgid programs using the following command:
$ sudo find PARTITION -xdev -perm /6000 -type f 2>/dev/null
For each setuid / setgid program identified by the previous command, an audit rule must be present in the appropriate place using the following line structure:
-a always,exit -F path=PROG_PATH -F perm=x -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=privileged
If the auditd daemon is configured to use the augenrules program to read audit rules during daemon startup, add the line to a file with suffix .rules in the /etc/audit/rules.d directory, replacing the PROG_PATH part with the full path of that setuid / setgid identified program. If the auditd daemon is configured to use the auditctl utility instead, add the line to the /etc/audit/audit.rules file, also replacing the PROG_PATH part with the full path of that setuid / setgid identified program.
Misuse of privileged functions, either intentionally or unintentionally by authorized users, or by unauthorized external entities that have compromised system accounts, is a serious and ongoing concern that can have significant adverse impacts on organizations. Auditing the use of privileged functions is one way to detect such misuse and identify the risk from insider and advanced persistent threats.

Privileged programs are subject to escalation-of-privilege attacks, which attempt to subvert their normal role of providing some necessary but limited capability. As such, motivation exists to monitor these programs for unusual activity.
Req-10.2.2
Req-10.2.5.b
Record Attempts to perform maintenance activities The Oracle Linux 7 operating system must generate audit records for privileged activities, nonlocal maintenance, diagnostic sessions and other system-level access. Verify the operating system audits activities performed during nonlocal maintenance and diagnostic sessions. Run the following command:
$ sudo auditctl -l | grep sudo.log
-w /var/log/sudo.log -p wa -k maintenance
If events associated with nonlocal administrative access or diagnostic sessions are not logged, a major tool for assessing and investigating attacks would not be available. This requirement addresses auditing-related issues associated with maintenance tools used specifically for diagnostic and repair actions on organizational information systems. Nonlocal maintenance and diagnostic activities are those activities conducted by individuals communicating through a network, either an external network (e.g., the internet) or an internal network. Local maintenance and diagnostic activities are those activities carried out by individuals physically present at the information system or information system component and not communicating across a network connection. This requirement applies to hardware/software diagnostic test equipment or tools. This requirement does not cover hardware/software components that may support information system maintenance, yet are a part of the system, for example, the software implementing "ping," "ls," "ipconfig," or the hardware and software implementing the monitoring port of an Ethernet switch.
Req-10.2.3 Record Attempts to Alter Logon and Logout Events - faillock The audit system already collects login information for all users and root. If the auditd daemon is configured to use the augenrules program to read audit rules during daemon startup (the default), add the following lines to a file with suffix .rules in the directory /etc/audit/rules.d in order to watch for attempted manual edits of files involved in storing logon events:
-w /var/log/faillock -p wa -k logins
If the auditd daemon is configured to use the auditctl utility to read audit rules during daemon startup, add the following lines to /etc/audit/audit.rules file in order to watch for unattempted manual edits of files involved in storing logon events:
-w /var/log/faillock -p wa -k logins
Manual editing of these files may indicate nefarious activity, such as an attacker attempting to remove evidence of an intrusion.
Req-10.2.3 Record Attempts to Alter Logon and Logout Events The audit system already collects login information for all users and root. If the auditd daemon is configured to use the augenrules program to read audit rules during daemon startup (the default), add the following lines to a file with suffix .rules in the directory /etc/audit/rules.d in order to watch for attempted manual edits of files involved in storing logon events:
-w /var/log/tallylog -p wa -k logins
-w /var/log/faillock -p wa -k logins
-w /var/log/lastlog -p wa -k logins
If the auditd daemon is configured to use the auditctl utility to read audit rules during daemon startup, add the following lines to /etc/audit/audit.rules file in order to watch for unattempted manual edits of files involved in storing logon events:
-w /var/log/tallylog -p wa -k logins
-w /var/log/faillock -p wa -k logins
-w /var/log/lastlog -p wa -k logins
Manual editing of these files may indicate nefarious activity, such as an attacker attempting to remove evidence of an intrusion.
Req-10.2.3 Record Attempts to Alter Process and Session Initiation Information The audit system already collects process information for all users and root. If the auditd daemon is configured to use the augenrules program to read audit rules during daemon startup (the default), add the following lines to a file with suffix .rules in the directory /etc/audit/rules.d in order to watch for attempted manual edits of files involved in storing such process information:
-w /var/run/utmp -p wa -k session
-w /var/log/btmp -p wa -k session
-w /var/log/wtmp -p wa -k session
If the auditd daemon is configured to use the auditctl utility to read audit rules during daemon startup, add the following lines to /etc/audit/audit.rules file in order to watch for attempted manual edits of files involved in storing such process information:
-w /var/run/utmp -p wa -k session
-w /var/log/btmp -p wa -k session
-w /var/log/wtmp -p wa -k session
Manual editing of these files may indicate nefarious activity, such as an attacker attempting to remove evidence of an intrusion.
Req-10.2.3 Record Attempts to Alter Logon and Logout Events - tallylog The audit system already collects login information for all users and root. If the auditd daemon is configured to use the augenrules program to read audit rules during daemon startup (the default), add the following lines to a file with suffix .rules in the directory /etc/audit/rules.d in order to watch for attempted manual edits of files involved in storing logon events:
-w /var/log/tallylog -p wa -k logins
If the auditd daemon is configured to use the auditctl utility to read audit rules during daemon startup, add the following lines to /etc/audit/audit.rules file in order to watch for unattempted manual edits of files involved in storing logon events:
-w /var/log/tallylog -p wa -k logins
Manual editing of these files may indicate nefarious activity, such as an attacker attempting to remove evidence of an intrusion.
Req-10.2.3 Record Attempts to Alter Logon and Logout Events - lastlog The audit system already collects login information for all users and root. If the auditd daemon is configured to use the augenrules program to read audit rules during daemon startup (the default), add the following lines to a file with suffix .rules in the directory /etc/audit/rules.d in order to watch for attempted manual edits of files involved in storing logon events:
-w /var/log/lastlog -p wa -k logins
If the auditd daemon is configured to use the auditctl utility to read audit rules during daemon startup, add the following lines to /etc/audit/audit.rules file in order to watch for unattempted manual edits of files involved in storing logon events:
-w /var/log/lastlog -p wa -k logins
Manual editing of these files may indicate nefarious activity, such as an attacker attempting to remove evidence of an intrusion.
Req-10.2.4
Req-10.2.1
Record Unsuccessful Access Attempts to Files - openat At a minimum, the audit system should collect unauthorized file accesses for all users and root. If the auditd daemon is configured to use the augenrules program to read audit rules during daemon startup (the default), add the following lines to a file with suffix .rules in the directory /etc/audit/rules.d:
-a always,exit -F arch=b32 -S openat -F exit=-EACCES -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=access
-a always,exit -F arch=b32 -S openat -F exit=-EPERM -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=access
If the system is 64 bit then also add the following lines:
-a always,exit -F arch=b64 -S openat -F exit=-EACCES -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=access
-a always,exit -F arch=b64 -S openat -F exit=-EPERM -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=access
If the auditd daemon is configured to use the auditctl utility to read audit rules during daemon startup, add the following lines to /etc/audit/audit.rules file:
-a always,exit -F arch=b32 -S openat -F exit=-EACCES -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=access
-a always,exit -F arch=b32 -S openat -F exit=-EPERM -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=access
If the system is 64 bit then also add the following lines:
-a always,exit -F arch=b64 -S openat -F exit=-EACCES -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=access
-a always,exit -F arch=b64 -S openat -F exit=-EPERM -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=access
Unsuccessful attempts to access files could be an indicator of malicious activity on a system. Auditing these events could serve as evidence of potential system compromise.
Req-10.2.4
Req-10.2.1
Record Unsuccessful Modification Attempts to Files - open_by_handle_at O_TRUNC_WRITE The audit system should collect detailed unauthorized file accesses for all users and root. The open_by_handle_at syscall can be used to modify files if called for write operation of with O_TRUNC_WRITE flag. The following auidt rules will asure that unsuccessful attempts to modify a file via open_by_handle_at syscall are collected. If the auditd daemon is configured to use the augenrules program to read audit rules during daemon startup (the default), add the rules below to a file with suffix .rules in the directory /etc/audit/rules.d. If the auditd daemon is configured to use the auditctl utility to read audit rules during daemon startup, add the rules below to /etc/audit/audit.rules file.
-a always,exit -F arch=b32 -S open_by_handle_at -F a2&01003 -F exit=-EACCES -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=unsuccesful-modification
-a always,exit -F arch=b32 -S open_by_handle_at -F a2&01003 -F exit=-EPERM -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=unsuccesful-modification
If the system is 64 bit then also add the following lines:
-a always,exit -F arch=b64 -S open_by_handle_at -F a2&01003 -F exit=-EACCES -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=unsuccesful-modification
-a always,exit -F arch=b64 -S open_by_handle_at -F a2&01003 -F exit=-EPERM -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=unsuccesful-modification
Unsuccessful attempts to access files could be an indicator of malicious activity on a system. Auditing these events could serve as evidence of potential system compromise.
Req-10.2.4
Req-10.2.1
Record Unsuccessful Creation Attempts to Files - open O_CREAT The audit system should collect unauthorized file accesses for all users and root. The open syscall can be used to create new files when O_CREAT flag is specified. The following auidt rules will asure that unsuccessful attempts to create a file via open syscall are collected. If the auditd daemon is configured to use the augenrules program to read audit rules during daemon startup (the default), add the rules below to a file with suffix .rules in the directory /etc/audit/rules.d. If the auditd daemon is configured to use the auditctl utility to read audit rules during daemon startup, add the rules below to /etc/audit/audit.rules file.
-a always,exit -F arch=b32 -S open -F a1&0100 -F exit=-EACCES -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=unsuccesful-create
-a always,exit -F arch=b32 -S open -F a1&0100 -F exit=-EPERM -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=unsuccesful-create
If the system is 64 bit then also add the following lines:
-a always,exit -F arch=b64 -S open -F a1&0100 -F exit=-EACCES -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=unsuccesful-create
-a always,exit -F arch=b64 -S open -F a1&0100 -F exit=-EPERM -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=unsuccesful-create
Unsuccessful attempts to access files could be an indicator of malicious activity on a system. Auditing these events could serve as evidence of potential system compromise.
Req-10.2.4
Req-10.2.1
Record Unsuccessful Access Attempts to Files - open At a minimum, the audit system should collect unauthorized file accesses for all users and root. If the auditd daemon is configured to use the augenrules program to read audit rules during daemon startup (the default), add the following lines to a file with suffix .rules in the directory /etc/audit/rules.d:
-a always,exit -F arch=b32 -S open -F exit=-EACCES -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=access
-a always,exit -F arch=b32 -S open -F exit=-EPERM -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=access
If the system is 64 bit then also add the following lines:
-a always,exit -F arch=b64 -S open -F exit=-EACCES -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=access
-a always,exit -F arch=b64 -S open -F exit=-EPERM -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=access
If the auditd daemon is configured to use the auditctl utility to read audit rules during daemon startup, add the following lines to /etc/audit/audit.rules file:
-a always,exit -F arch=b32 -S open -F exit=-EACCES -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=access
-a always,exit -F arch=b32 -S open -F exit=-EPERM -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=access
If the system is 64 bit then also add the following lines:
-a always,exit -F arch=b64 -S open -F exit=-EACCES -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=access
-a always,exit -F arch=b64 -S open -F exit=-EPERM -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=access
Unsuccessful attempts to access files could be an indicator of malicious activity on a system. Auditing these events could serve as evidence of potential system compromise.
Req-10.2.4
Req-10.2.1
Record Unsuccessful Creation Attempts to Files - open_by_handle_at O_CREAT The audit system should collect unauthorized file accesses for all users and root. The open_by_handle_at syscall can be used to create new files when O_CREAT flag is specified. The following auidt rules will asure that unsuccessful attempts to create a file via open_by_handle_at syscall are collected. If the auditd daemon is configured to use the augenrules program to read audit rules during daemon startup (the default), add the rules below to a file with suffix .rules in the directory /etc/audit/rules.d. If the auditd daemon is configured to use the auditctl utility to read audit rules during daemon startup, add the rules below to /etc/audit/audit.rules file.
-a always,exit -F arch=b32 -S open_by_handle_at -F a2&0100 -F exit=-EACCES -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=unsuccesful-create
-a always,exit -F arch=b32 -S open_by_handle_at -F a2&0100 -F exit=-EPERM -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=unsuccesful-create
If the system is 64 bit then also add the following lines:
-a always,exit -F arch=b64 -S open_by_handle_at -F a2&0100 -F exit=-EACCES -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=unsuccesful-create
-a always,exit -F arch=b64 -S open_by_handle_at -F a2&0100 -F exit=-EPERM -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=unsuccesful-create
Unsuccessful attempts to access files could be an indicator of malicious activity on a system. Auditing these events could serve as evidence of potential system compromise.
Req-10.2.4
Req-10.2.1
Record Unsuccessful Access Attempts to Files - creat At a minimum, the audit system should collect unauthorized file accesses for all users and root. If the auditd daemon is configured to use the augenrules program to read audit rules during daemon startup (the default), add the following lines to a file with suffix .rules in the directory /etc/audit/rules.d:
-a always,exit -F arch=b32 -S creat -F exit=-EACCES -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=access
-a always,exit -F arch=b32 -S creat -F exit=-EPERM -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=access
If the system is 64 bit then also add the following lines:
-a always,exit -F arch=b64 -S creat -F exit=-EACCES -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=access
-a always,exit -F arch=b64 -S creat -F exit=-EPERM -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=access
If the auditd daemon is configured to use the auditctl utility to read audit rules during daemon startup, add the following lines to /etc/audit/audit.rules file:
-a always,exit -F arch=b32 -S creat -F exit=-EACCES -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=access
-a always,exit -F arch=b32 -S creat -F exit=-EPERM -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=access
If the system is 64 bit then also add the following lines:
-a always,exit -F arch=b64 -S creat -F exit=-EACCES -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=access
-a always,exit -F arch=b64 -S creat -F exit=-EPERM -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=access
Unsuccessful attempts to access files could be an indicator of malicious activity on a system. Auditing these events could serve as evidence of potential system compromise.
Req-10.2.4
Req-10.2.1
Ensure auditd Rules For Unauthorized Attempts To open Are Ordered Correctly The audit system should collect detailed unauthorized file accesses for all users and root. To correctly identify unsuccessful creation, unsuccessful modification and unsuccessful access of files via open syscall the audit rules collecting these events need to be in certain order. The more specific rules need to come before the less specific rules. The reason for that is that more specific rules cover a subset of events covered in the less specific rules, thus, they need to come before to not be overshadowed by less specific rules, which match a bigger set of events. Make sure that rules for unsuccessful calls of open syscall are in the order shown below. If the auditd daemon is configured to use the augenrules program to read audit rules during daemon startup (the default), check the order of rules below in a file with suffix .rules in the directory /etc/audit/rules.d. If the auditd daemon is configured to use the auditctl utility to read audit rules during daemon startup, check the order of rules below in /etc/audit/audit.rules file.
-a always,exit -F arch=b32 -S open -F a1&0100 -F exit=-EACCES -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=unsuccesful-create
-a always,exit -F arch=b32 -S open -F a1&0100 -F exit=-EPERM -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=unsuccesful-create
-a always,exit -F arch=b32 -S open -F a1&01003 -F exit=-EACCES -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=unsuccesful-modification
-a always,exit -F arch=b32 -S open -F a1&01003 -F exit=-EPERM -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=unsuccesful-modification
-a always,exit -F arch=b32 -S open -F exit=-EACCES -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=unsuccesful-access
-a always,exit -F arch=b32 -S open -F exit=-EPERM -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=unsuccesful-access
If the system is 64 bit then also add the following lines:
-a always,exit -F arch=b64 -S open -F a1&0100 -F exit=-EACCES -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=unsuccesful-create
-a always,exit -F arch=b64 -S open -F a1&0100 -F exit=-EPERM -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=unsuccesful-create
-a always,exit -F arch=b64 -S open -F a1&01003 -F exit=-EACCES -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=unsuccesful-modification
-a always,exit -F arch=b64 -S open -F a1&01003 -F exit=-EPERM -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=unsuccesful-modification
-a always,exit -F arch=b64 -S open -F exit=-EACCES -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=unsuccesful-access
-a always,exit -F arch=b64 -S open -F exit=-EPERM -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=unsuccesful-access
The more specific rules cover a subset of events covered by the less specific rules. By ordering them from more specific to less specific, it is assured that the less specific rule will not catch events better recorded by the more specific rule.
Req-10.2.4
Req-10.2.1
Record Unsuccessful Modification Attempts to Files - open O_TRUNC_WRITE The audit system should collect detailed unauthorized file accesses for all users and root. The open syscall can be used to modify files if called for write operation of with O_TRUNC_WRITE flag. The following auidt rules will asure that unsuccessful attempts to modify a file via open syscall are collected. If the auditd daemon is configured to use the augenrules program to read audit rules during daemon startup (the default), add the rules below to a file with suffix .rules in the directory /etc/audit/rules.d. If the auditd daemon is configured to use the auditctl utility to read audit rules during daemon startup, add the rules below to /etc/audit/audit.rules file.
-a always,exit -F arch=b32 -S open -F a1&01003 -F exit=-EACCES -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=unsuccesful-modification
-a always,exit -F arch=b32 -S open -F a1&01003 -F exit=-EPERM -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=unsuccesful-modification
If the system is 64 bit then also add the following lines:
-a always,exit -F arch=b64 -S open -F a1&01003 -F exit=-EACCES -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=unsuccesful-modification
-a always,exit -F arch=b64 -S open -F a1&01003 -F exit=-EPERM -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=unsuccesful-modification
Unsuccessful attempts to access files could be an indicator of malicious activity on a system. Auditing these events could serve as evidence of potential system compromise.
Req-10.2.4
Req-10.2.1
Ensure auditd Unauthorized Access Attempts To open_by_handle_at Are Ordered Correctly The audit system should collect detailed unauthorized file accesses for all users and root. To correctly identify unsuccessful creation, unsuccessful modification and unsuccessful access of files via open_by_handle_at syscall the audit rules collecting these events need to be in certain order. The more specific rules need to come before the less specific rules. The reason for that is that more specific rules cover a subset of events covered in the less specific rules, thus, they need to come before to not be overshadowed by less specific rules, which match a bigger set of events. Make sure that rules for unsuccessful calls of open_by_handle_at syscall are in the order shown below. If the auditd daemon is configured to use the augenrules program to read audit rules during daemon startup (the default), check the order of rules below in a file with suffix .rules in the directory /etc/audit/rules.d. If the auditd daemon is configured to use the auditctl utility to read audit rules during daemon startup, check the order of rules below in /etc/audit/audit.rules file.
-a always,exit -F arch=b32 -S open_by_handle_at -F a2&0100 -F exit=-EACCES -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=unsuccesful-create
-a always,exit -F arch=b32 -S open_by_handle_at -F a2&0100 -F exit=-EPERM -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=unsuccesful-create
-a always,exit -F arch=b32 -S open_by_handle_at -F a2&01003 -F exit=-EACCES -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=unsuccesful-modification
-a always,exit -F arch=b32 -S open_by_handle_at -F a2&01003 -F exit=-EPERM -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=unsuccesful-modification
-a always,exit -F arch=b32 -S open_by_handle_at -F exit=-EACCES -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=unsuccesful-access
-a always,exit -F arch=b32 -S open_by_handle_at -F exit=-EPERM -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=unsuccesful-access
If the system is 64 bit then also add the following lines:
-a always,exit -F arch=b64 -S open_by_handle_at -F a2&0100 -F exit=-EACCES -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=unsuccesful-create
-a always,exit -F arch=b64 -S open_by_handle_at -F a2&0100 -F exit=-EPERM -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=unsuccesful-create
-a always,exit -F arch=b64 -S open_by_handle_at -F a2&01003 -F exit=-EACCES -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=unsuccesful-modification
-a always,exit -F arch=b64 -S open_by_handle_at -F a2&01003 -F exit=-EPERM -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=unsuccesful-modification
-a always,exit -F arch=b64 -S open_by_handle_at -F exit=-EACCES -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=unsuccesful-access
-a always,exit -F arch=b64 -S open_by_handle_at -F exit=-EPERM -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=unsuccesful-access
The more specific rules cover a subset of events covered by the less specific rules. By ordering them from more specific to less specific, it is assured that the less specific rule will not catch events better recorded by the more specific rule.
Req-10.2.4
Req-10.2.1
Ensure auditd Collects Unauthorized Access Attempts to Files (unsuccessful) At a minimum the audit system should collect unauthorized file accesses for all users and root. If the auditd daemon is configured to use the augenrules program to read audit rules during daemon startup (the default), add the following lines to a file with suffix .rules in the directory /etc/audit/rules.d:
-a always,exit -F arch=b32 -S creat,open,openat,open_by_handle_at,truncate,ftruncate -F exit=-EACCES -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=access
-a always,exit -F arch=b32 -S creat,open,openat,open_by_handle_at,truncate,ftruncate -F exit=-EPERM -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=access
If the system is 64 bit then also add the following lines:
-a always,exit -F arch=b64 -S creat,open,openat,open_by_handle_at,truncate,ftruncate -F exit=-EACCES -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=access
-a always,exit -F arch=b64 -S creat,open,openat,open_by_handle_at,truncate,ftruncate -F exit=-EPERM -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=access
If the auditd daemon is configured to use the auditctl utility to read audit rules during daemon startup, add the following lines to /etc/audit/audit.rules file:
-a always,exit -F arch=b32 -S creat,open,openat,open_by_handle_at,truncate,ftruncate -F exit=-EACCES -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=access
-a always,exit -F arch=b32 -S creat,open,openat,open_by_handle_at,truncate,ftruncate -F exit=-EPERM -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=access
If the system is 64 bit then also add the following lines:
-a always,exit -F arch=b64 -S creat,open,openat,open_by_handle_at,truncate,ftruncate -F exit=-EACCES -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=access
-a always,exit -F arch=b64 -S creat,open,openat,open_by_handle_at,truncate,ftruncate -F exit=-EPERM -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=access
Unsuccessful attempts to access files could be an indicator of malicious activity on a system. Auditing these events could serve as evidence of potential system compromise.
Req-10.2.4
Req-10.2.1
Record Unsuccessful Delete Attempts to Files - unlink The audit system should collect unsuccessful file deletion attempts for all users and root. If the auditd daemon is configured to use the augenrules program to read audit rules during daemon startup (the default), add the following lines to a file with suffix .rules in the directory /etc/audit/rules.d. If the auditd daemon is configured to use the auditctl utility to read audit rules during daemon startup, add the following lines to /etc/audit/audit.rules file.
-a always,exit -F arch=b32 -S unlink -F exit=-EACCES -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=unsuccessful-delete
-a always,exit -F arch=b32 -S unlink -F exit=-EPERM -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=unsuccessful-delete
If the system is 64 bit then also add the following lines:
-a always,exit -F arch=b64 -S unlink -F exit=-EACCES -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=unsuccessful-delete
-a always,exit -F arch=b64 -S unlink -F exit=-EPERM -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=unsuccessful-delete
Unsuccessful attempts to delete files could be an indicator of malicious activity on a system. Auditing these events could serve as evidence of potential system compromise.
Req-10.2.4
Req-10.2.1
Record Unsuccessful Creation Attempts to Files - openat O_CREAT The audit system should collect unauthorized file accesses for all users and root. The openat syscall can be used to create new files when O_CREAT flag is specified. The following auidt rules will asure that unsuccessful attempts to create a file via openat syscall are collected. If the auditd daemon is configured to use the augenrules program to read audit rules during daemon startup (the default), add the rules below to a file with suffix .rules in the directory /etc/audit/rules.d. If the auditd daemon is configured to use the auditctl utility to read audit rules during daemon startup, add the rules below to /etc/audit/audit.rules file.
-a always,exit -F arch=b32 -S openat -F a2&0100 -F exit=-EACCES -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=unsuccesful-create
-a always,exit -F arch=b32 -S openat -F a2&0100 -F exit=-EPERM -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=unsuccesful-create
If the system is 64 bit then also add the following lines:
-a always,exit -F arch=b64 -S openat -F a2&0100 -F exit=-EACCES -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=unsuccesful-create
-a always,exit -F arch=b64 -S openat -F a2&0100 -F exit=-EPERM -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=unsuccesful-create
Unsuccessful attempts to access files could be an indicator of malicious activity on a system. Auditing these events could serve as evidence of potential system compromise.
Req-10.2.4
Req-10.2.1
Ensure auditd Rules For Unauthorized Attempts To openat Are Ordered Correctly The audit system should collect detailed unauthorized file accesses for all users and root. To correctly identify unsuccessful creation, unsuccessful modification and unsuccessful access of files via openat syscall the audit rules collecting these events need to be in certain order. The more specific rules need to come before the less specific rules. The reason for that is that more specific rules cover a subset of events covered in the less specific rules, thus, they need to come before to not be overshadowed by less specific rules, which match a bigger set of events. Make sure that rules for unsuccessful calls of openat syscall are in the order shown below. If the auditd daemon is configured to use the augenrules program to read audit rules during daemon startup (the default), check the order of rules below in a file with suffix .rules in the directory /etc/audit/rules.d. If the auditd daemon is configured to use the auditctl utility to read audit rules during daemon startup, check the order of rules below in /etc/audit/audit.rules file.
-a always,exit -F arch=b32 -S openat -F a2&0100 -F exit=-EACCES -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=unsuccesful-create
-a always,exit -F arch=b32 -S openat -F a2&0100 -F exit=-EPERM -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=unsuccesful-create
-a always,exit -F arch=b32 -S openat -F a2&01003 -F exit=-EACCES -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=unsuccesful-modification
-a always,exit -F arch=b32 -S openat -F a2&01003 -F exit=-EPERM -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=unsuccesful-modification
-a always,exit -F arch=b32 -S openat -F exit=-EACCES -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=unsuccesful-access
-a always,exit -F arch=b32 -S openat -F exit=-EPERM -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=unsuccesful-access
If the system is 64 bit then also add the following lines:
-a always,exit -F arch=b64 -S openat -F a2&0100 -F exit=-EACCES -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=unsuccesful-create
-a always,exit -F arch=b64 -S openat -F a2&0100 -F exit=-EPERM -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=unsuccesful-create
-a always,exit -F arch=b64 -S openat -F a2&01003 -F exit=-EACCES -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=unsuccesful-modification
-a always,exit -F arch=b64 -S openat -F a2&01003 -F exit=-EPERM -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=unsuccesful-modification
-a always,exit -F arch=b64 -S openat -F exit=-EACCES -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=unsuccesful-access
-a always,exit -F arch=b64 -S openat -F exit=-EPERM -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=unsuccesful-access
The more specific rules cover a subset of events covered by the less specific rules. By ordering them from more specific to less specific, it is assured that the less specific rule will not catch events better recorded by the more specific rule.
Req-10.2.4
Req-10.2.1
Record Unsuccessful Modification Attempts to Files - openat O_TRUNC_WRITE The audit system should collect detailed unauthorized file accesses for all users and root. The openat syscall can be used to modify files if called for write operation of with O_TRUNC_WRITE flag. The following auidt rules will asure that unsuccessful attempts to modify a file via openat syscall are collected. If the auditd daemon is configured to use the augenrules program to read audit rules during daemon startup (the default), add the rules below to a file with suffix .rules in the directory /etc/audit/rules.d. If the auditd daemon is configured to use the auditctl utility to read audit rules during daemon startup, add the rules below to /etc/audit/audit.rules file.
-a always,exit -F arch=b32 -S openat -F a2&01003 -F exit=-EACCES -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=unsuccesful-modification
-a always,exit -F arch=b32 -S openat -F a2&01003 -F exit=-EPERM -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=unsuccesful-modification
If the system is 64 bit then also add the following lines:
-a always,exit -F arch=b64 -S openat -F a2&01003 -F exit=-EACCES -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=unsuccesful-modification
-a always,exit -F arch=b64 -S openat -F a2&01003 -F exit=-EPERM -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=unsuccesful-modification
Unsuccessful attempts to access files could be an indicator of malicious activity on a system. Auditing these events could serve as evidence of potential system compromise.
Req-10.2.4
Req-10.2.1
Record Unsuccessful Delete Attempts to Files - rename The audit system should collect unsuccessful file deletion attempts for all users and root. If the auditd daemon is configured to use the augenrules program to read audit rules during daemon startup (the default), add the following lines to a file with suffix .rules in the directory /etc/audit/rules.d. If the auditd daemon is configured to use the auditctl utility to read audit rules during daemon startup, add the following lines to /etc/audit/audit.rules file.
-a always,exit -F arch=b32 -S rename -F exit=-EACCES -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=unsuccessful-delete
-a always,exit -F arch=b32 -S rename -F exit=-EPERM -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=unsuccessful-delete
If the system is 64 bit then also add the following lines:
-a always,exit -F arch=b64 -S rename -F exit=-EACCES -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=unsuccessful-delete
-a always,exit -F arch=b64 -S rename -F exit=-EPERM -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=unsuccessful-delete
Unsuccessful attempts to delete files could be an indicator of malicious activity on a system. Auditing these events could serve as evidence of potential system compromise.
Req-10.2.4
Req-10.2.1
Record Unsuccessful Access Attempts to Files - open_by_handle_at At a minimum, the audit system should collect unauthorized file accesses for all users and root. If the auditd daemon is configured to use the augenrules program to read audit rules during daemon startup (the default), add the following lines to a file with suffix .rules in the directory /etc/audit/rules.d:
-a always,exit -F arch=b32 -S open_by_handle_at -F exit=-EACCES -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=access
-a always,exit -F arch=b32 -S open_by_handle_at -F exit=-EPERM -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=access
If the system is 64 bit then also add the following lines:
-a always,exit -F arch=b64 -S open_by_handle_at -F exit=-EACCES -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=access
-a always,exit -F arch=b64 -S open_by_handle_at -F exit=-EPERM -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=access
If the auditd daemon is configured to use the auditctl utility to read audit rules during daemon startup, add the following lines to /etc/audit/audit.rules file:
-a always,exit -F arch=b32 -S open_by_handle_at,truncate,ftruncate -F exit=-EACCES -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=access
-a always,exit -F arch=b32 -S open_by_handle_at,truncate,ftruncate -F exit=-EPERM -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=access
If the system is 64 bit then also add the following lines:
-a always,exit -F arch=b64 -S open_by_handle_at,truncate,ftruncate -F exit=-EACCES -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=access
-a always,exit -F arch=b64 -S open_by_handle_at,truncate,ftruncate -F exit=-EPERM -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=access
Unsuccessful attempts to access files could be an indicator of malicious activity on a system. Auditing these events could serve as evidence of potential system compromise.
Req-10.2.4
Req-10.2.1
Record Unsuccessful Delete Attempts to Files - renameat The audit system should collect unsuccessful file deletion attempts for all users and root. If the auditd daemon is configured to use the augenrules program to read audit rules during daemon startup (the default), add the following lines to a file with suffix .rules in the directory /etc/audit/rules.d. If the auditd daemon is configured to use the auditctl utility to read audit rules during daemon startup, add the following lines to /etc/audit/audit.rules file.
-a always,exit -F arch=b32 -S renameat -F exit=-EACCES -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=unsuccessful-delete
-a always,exit -F arch=b32 -S renameat -F exit=-EPERM -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=unsuccessful-delete
If the system is 64 bit then also add the following lines:
-a always,exit -F arch=b64 -S renameat -F exit=-EACCES -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=unsuccessful-delete
-a always,exit -F arch=b64 -S renameat -F exit=-EPERM -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=unsuccessful-delete
Unsuccessful attempts to delete files could be an indicator of malicious activity on a system. Auditing these events could serve as evidence of potential system compromise.
Req-10.2.4 Ensure PAM Displays Last Logon/Access Notification To configure the system to notify users of last logon/access using pam_lastlog, add or correct the pam_lastlog settings in /etc/pam.d/postlogin to include showfailed option, such as:
session     required    pam_lastlog.so showfailed
And make sure that the silent option is not set for this specific line.
Users need to be aware of activity that occurs regarding their account. Providing users with information regarding the number of unsuccessful attempts that were made to login to their account allows the user to determine if any unauthorized activity has occurred and gives them an opportunity to notify administrators.
Req-10.2.4
Req-10.2.1
Record Unsuccessful Delete Attempts to Files - unlinkat The audit system should collect unsuccessful file deletion attempts for all users and root. If the auditd daemon is configured to use the augenrules program to read audit rules during daemon startup (the default), add the following lines to a file with suffix .rules in the directory /etc/audit/rules.d. If the auditd daemon is configured to use the auditctl utility to read audit rules during daemon startup, add the following lines to /etc/audit/audit.rules file.
-a always,exit -F arch=b32 -S unlinkat -F exit=-EACCES -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=unsuccessful-delete
-a always,exit -F arch=b32 -S unlinkat -F exit=-EPERM -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=unsuccessful-delete
If the system is 64 bit then also add the following lines:
-a always,exit -F arch=b64 -S unlinkat -F exit=-EACCES -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=unsuccessful-delete
-a always,exit -F arch=b64 -S unlinkat -F exit=-EPERM -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=unsuccessful-delete
Unsuccessful attempts to delete files could be an indicator of malicious activity on a system. Auditing these events could serve as evidence of potential system compromise.
Req-10.2.4
Req-10.2.1
Record Unsuccessful Access Attempts to Files - ftruncate At a minimum, the audit system should collect unauthorized file accesses for all users and root. If the auditd daemon is configured to use the augenrules program to read audit rules during daemon startup (the default), add the following lines to a file with suffix .rules in the directory /etc/audit/rules.d:
-a always,exit -F arch=b32 -S ftruncate -F exit=-EACCES -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=access
-a always,exit -F arch=b32 -S ftruncate -F exit=-EPERM -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=access
If the system is 64 bit then also add the following lines:
-a always,exit -F arch=b64 -S ftruncate -F exit=-EACCES -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=access
-a always,exit -F arch=b64 -S ftruncate -F exit=-EPERM -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=access
If the auditd daemon is configured to use the auditctl utility to read audit rules during daemon startup, add the following lines to /etc/audit/audit.rules file:
-a always,exit -F arch=b32 -S ftruncate -F exit=-EACCES -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=access
-a always,exit -F arch=b32 -S ftruncate -F exit=-EPERM -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=access
If the system is 64 bit then also add the following lines:
-a always,exit -F arch=b64 -S ftruncate -F exit=-EACCES -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=access
-a always,exit -F arch=b64 -S ftruncate -F exit=-EPERM -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=access
Unsuccessful attempts to access files could be an indicator of malicious activity on a system. Auditing these events could serve as evidence of potential system compromise.
Req-10.2.4
Req-10.2.1
Record Unsuccessful Access Attempts to Files - truncate At a minimum, the audit system should collect unauthorized file accesses for all users and root. If the auditd daemon is configured to use the augenrules program to read audit rules during daemon startup (the default), add the following lines to a file with suffix .rules in the directory /etc/audit/rules.d:
-a always,exit -F arch=b32 -S truncate -F exit=-EACCES -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=access
-a always,exit -F arch=b32 -S truncate -F exit=-EPERM -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=access
If the system is 64 bit then also add the following lines:
-a always,exit -F arch=b64 -S truncate -F exit=-EACCES -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=access
-a always,exit -F arch=b64 -S truncate -F exit=-EPERM -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=access
If the auditd daemon is configured to use the auditctl utility to read audit rules during daemon startup, add the following lines to /etc/audit/audit.rules file:
-a always,exit -F arch=b32 -S truncate -F exit=-EACCES -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=access
-a always,exit -F arch=b32 -S truncate -F exit=-EPERM -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=access
If the system is 64 bit then also add the following lines:
-a always,exit -F arch=b64 -S truncate -F exit=-EACCES -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=access
-a always,exit -F arch=b64 -S truncate -F exit=-EPERM -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=access
Unsuccessful attempts to access files could be an indicator of malicious activity on a system. Auditing these events could serve as evidence of potential system compromise.
Req-10.2.5 Record Events that Modify User/Group Information - /etc/security/opasswd If the auditd daemon is configured to use the augenrules program to read audit rules during daemon startup (the default), add the following lines to a file with suffix .rules in the directory /etc/audit/rules.d, in order to capture events that modify account changes:

-w /etc/security/opasswd -p wa -k audit_rules_usergroup_modification


If the auditd daemon is configured to use the auditctl utility to read audit rules during daemon startup, add the following lines to /etc/audit/audit.rules file, in order to capture events that modify account changes:

-w /etc/security/opasswd -p wa -k audit_rules_usergroup_modification
In addition to auditing new user and group accounts, these watches will alert the system administrator(s) to any modifications. Any unexpected users, groups, or modifications should be investigated for legitimacy.
Req-10.2.5 Record Events that Modify User/Group Information If the auditd daemon is configured to use the augenrules program to read audit rules during daemon startup (the default), add the following lines to a file with suffix .rules in the directory /etc/audit/rules.d, in order to capture events that modify account changes:
-w /etc/group -p wa -k audit_rules_usergroup_modification
-w /etc/passwd -p wa -k audit_rules_usergroup_modification
-w /etc/gshadow -p wa -k audit_rules_usergroup_modification
-w /etc/shadow -p wa -k audit_rules_usergroup_modification
-w /etc/security/opasswd -p wa -k audit_rules_usergroup_modification

If the auditd daemon is configured to use the auditctl utility to read audit rules during daemon startup, add the following lines to /etc/audit/audit.rules file, in order to capture events that modify account changes:
-w /etc/group -p wa -k audit_rules_usergroup_modification
-w /etc/passwd -p wa -k audit_rules_usergroup_modification
-w /etc/gshadow -p wa -k audit_rules_usergroup_modification
-w /etc/shadow -p wa -k audit_rules_usergroup_modification
-w /etc/security/opasswd -p wa -k audit_rules_usergroup_modification
In addition to auditing new user and group accounts, these watches will alert the system administrator(s) to any modifications. Any unexpected users, groups, or modifications should be investigated for legitimacy.
Req-10.2.5 Record Events that Modify User/Group Information - /etc/shadow If the auditd daemon is configured to use the augenrules program to read audit rules during daemon startup (the default), add the following lines to a file with suffix .rules in the directory /etc/audit/rules.d, in order to capture events that modify account changes:

-w /etc/shadow -p wa -k audit_rules_usergroup_modification


If the auditd daemon is configured to use the auditctl utility to read audit rules during daemon startup, add the following lines to /etc/audit/audit.rules file, in order to capture events that modify account changes:

-w /etc/shadow -p wa -k audit_rules_usergroup_modification
In addition to auditing new user and group accounts, these watches will alert the system administrator(s) to any modifications. Any unexpected users, groups, or modifications should be investigated for legitimacy.
Req-10.2.5 Record Events that Modify User/Group Information - /etc/group If the auditd daemon is configured to use the augenrules program to read audit rules during daemon startup (the default), add the following lines to a file with suffix .rules in the directory /etc/audit/rules.d, in order to capture events that modify account changes:

-w /etc/group -p wa -k audit_rules_usergroup_modification


If the auditd daemon is configured to use the auditctl utility to read audit rules during daemon startup, add the following lines to /etc/audit/audit.rules file, in order to capture events that modify account changes:

-w /etc/group -p wa -k audit_rules_usergroup_modification
In addition to auditing new user and group accounts, these watches will alert the system administrator(s) to any modifications. Any unexpected users, groups, or modifications should be investigated for legitimacy.
Req-10.2.5 Ensure Only Users Logged In To Real tty Can Execute Sudo - sudo use_pty The sudo use_pty tag, when specified, will only execute sudo commands from users logged in to a real tty. This should be enabled by making sure that the use_pty tag exists in /etc/sudoers configuration file or any sudo configuration snippets in /etc/sudoers.d/. Requiring that sudo commands be run in a pseudo-terminal can prevent an attacker from retaining access to the user's terminal after the main program has finished executing.
Req-10.2.5 Record Events that Modify User/Group Information - /etc/passwd If the auditd daemon is configured to use the augenrules program to read audit rules during daemon startup (the default), add the following lines to a file with suffix .rules in the directory /etc/audit/rules.d, in order to capture events that modify account changes:

-w /etc/passwd -p wa -k audit_rules_usergroup_modification


If the auditd daemon is configured to use the auditctl utility to read audit rules during daemon startup, add the following lines to /etc/audit/audit.rules file, in order to capture events that modify account changes:

-w /etc/passwd -p wa -k audit_rules_usergroup_modification
In addition to auditing new user and group accounts, these watches will alert the system administrator(s) to any modifications. Any unexpected users, groups, or modifications should be investigated for legitimacy.
Req-10.2.5 Record Events that Modify User/Group Information - /etc/gshadow If the auditd daemon is configured to use the augenrules program to read audit rules during daemon startup (the default), add the following lines to a file with suffix .rules in the directory /etc/audit/rules.d, in order to capture events that modify account changes:

-w /etc/gshadow -p wa -k audit_rules_usergroup_modification


If the auditd daemon is configured to use the auditctl utility to read audit rules during daemon startup, add the following lines to /etc/audit/audit.rules file, in order to capture events that modify account changes:

-w /etc/gshadow -p wa -k audit_rules_usergroup_modification
In addition to auditing new user and group accounts, these watches will alert the system administrator(s) to any modifications. Any unexpected users, groups, or modifications should be investigated for legitimacy.
Req-10.2.5 Ensure Sudo Logfile Exists - sudo logfile A custom log sudo file can be configured with the 'logfile' tag. This rule configures a sudo custom logfile at the default location suggested by CIS, which uses /var/log/sudo.log. A sudo log file simplifies auditing of sudo commands.
Req-10.2.7 Ensure auditd Collects File Deletion Events by User - unlink At a minimum, the audit system should collect file deletion events for all users and root. If the auditd daemon is configured to use the augenrules program to read audit rules during daemon startup (the default), add the following line to a file with suffix .rules in the directory /etc/audit/rules.d, setting ARCH to either b32 or b64 as appropriate for your system:
-a always,exit -F arch=ARCH -S unlink -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=delete
If the auditd daemon is configured to use the auditctl utility to read audit rules during daemon startup, add the following line to /etc/audit/audit.rules file, setting ARCH to either b32 or b64 as appropriate for your system:
-a always,exit -F arch=ARCH -S unlink -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=delete
Auditing file deletions will create an audit trail for files that are removed from the system. The audit trail could aid in system troubleshooting, as well as, detecting malicious processes that attempt to delete log files to conceal their presence.
Req-10.2.7 Ensure auditd Collects Information on Kernel Module Loading and Unloading To capture kernel module loading and unloading events, use following lines, setting ARCH to either b32 for 32-bit system, or having two lines for both b32 and b64 in case your system is 64-bit:
-a always,exit -F arch=ARCH -S init_module,finit_module,delete_module -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=modules
The place to add the lines depends on a way auditd daemon is configured. If it is configured to use the augenrules program (the default), add the lines to a file with suffix .rules in the directory /etc/audit/rules.d. If the auditd daemon is configured to use the auditctl utility, add the lines to file /etc/audit/audit.rules.
The addition/removal of kernel modules can be used to alter the behavior of the kernel and potentially introduce malicious code into kernel space. It is important to have an audit trail of modules that have been introduced into the kernel.
Req-10.2.7 Ensure auditd Collects File Deletion Events by User - unlinkat At a minimum, the audit system should collect file deletion events for all users and root. If the auditd daemon is configured to use the augenrules program to read audit rules during daemon startup (the default), add the following line to a file with suffix .rules in the directory /etc/audit/rules.d, setting ARCH to either b32 or b64 as appropriate for your system:
-a always,exit -F arch=ARCH -S unlinkat -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=delete
If the auditd daemon is configured to use the auditctl utility to read audit rules during daemon startup, add the following line to /etc/audit/audit.rules file, setting ARCH to either b32 or b64 as appropriate for your system:
-a always,exit -F arch=ARCH -S unlinkat -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=delete
Auditing file deletions will create an audit trail for files that are removed from the system. The audit trail could aid in system troubleshooting, as well as, detecting malicious processes that attempt to delete log files to conceal their presence.
Req-10.2.7 Ensure auditd Collects Information on Kernel Module Loading and Unloading - finit_module If the auditd daemon is configured to use the augenrules program to read audit rules during daemon startup (the default), add the following lines to a file with suffix .rules in the directory /etc/audit/rules.d to capture kernel module loading and unloading events, setting ARCH to either b32 or b64 as appropriate for your system:
-a always,exit -F arch=ARCH -S finit_module -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=modules
If the auditd daemon is configured to use the auditctl utility to read audit rules during daemon startup, add the following lines to /etc/audit/audit.rules file in order to capture kernel module loading and unloading events, setting ARCH to either b32 or b64 as appropriate for your system:
-a always,exit -F arch=ARCH -S finit_module -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=modules
The addition/removal of kernel modules can be used to alter the behavior of the kernel and potentially introduce malicious code into kernel space. It is important to have an audit trail of modules that have been introduced into the kernel.
Req-10.2.7 Ensure auditd Collects File Deletion Events by User - renameat At a minimum, the audit system should collect file deletion events for all users and root. If the auditd daemon is configured to use the augenrules program to read audit rules during daemon startup (the default), add the following line to a file with suffix .rules in the directory /etc/audit/rules.d, setting ARCH to either b32 or b64 as appropriate for your system:
-a always,exit -F arch=ARCH -S renameat -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=delete
If the auditd daemon is configured to use the auditctl utility to read audit rules during daemon startup, add the following line to /etc/audit/audit.rules file, setting ARCH to either b32 or b64 as appropriate for your system:
-a always,exit -F arch=ARCH -S renameat -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=delete
Auditing file deletions will create an audit trail for files that are removed from the system. The audit trail could aid in system troubleshooting, as well as, detecting malicious processes that attempt to delete log files to conceal their presence.
Req-10.2.7 Ensure auditd Collects Information on Kernel Module Unloading - delete_module To capture kernel module unloading events, use following line, setting ARCH to either b32 for 32-bit system, or having two lines for both b32 and b64 in case your system is 64-bit:
-a always,exit -F arch=ARCH -S delete_module -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=modules
Place to add the line depends on a way auditd daemon is configured. If it is configured to use the augenrules program (the default), add the line to a file with suffix .rules in the directory /etc/audit/rules.d. If the auditd daemon is configured to use the auditctl utility, add the line to file /etc/audit/audit.rules.
The removal of kernel modules can be used to alter the behavior of the kernel and potentially introduce malicious code into kernel space. It is important to have an audit trail of modules that have been introduced into the kernel.
Req-10.2.7 Ensure auditd Collects Information on Kernel Module Loading - init_module To capture kernel module loading events, use following line, setting ARCH to either b32 for 32-bit system, or having two lines for both b32 and b64 in case your system is 64-bit:
-a always,exit -F arch=ARCH -S init_module -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=modules
Place to add the line depends on a way auditd daemon is configured. If it is configured to use the augenrules program (the default), add the line to a file with suffix .rules in the directory /etc/audit/rules.d. If the auditd daemon is configured to use the auditctl utility, add the line to file /etc/audit/audit.rules.
The addition of kernel modules can be used to alter the behavior of the kernel and potentially introduce malicious code into kernel space. It is important to have an audit trail of modules that have been introduced into the kernel.
Req-10.2.7 Ensure auditd Collects File Deletion Events by User At a minimum the audit system should collect file deletion events for all users and root. If the auditd daemon is configured to use the augenrules program to read audit rules during daemon startup (the default), add the following line to a file with suffix .rules in the directory /etc/audit/rules.d, setting ARCH to either b32 or b64 as appropriate for your system:
-a always,exit -F arch=ARCH -S rmdir,unlink,unlinkat,rename,renameat -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=delete
If the auditd daemon is configured to use the auditctl utility to read audit rules during daemon startup, add the following line to /etc/audit/audit.rules file, setting ARCH to either b32 or b64 as appropriate for your system:
-a always,exit -F arch=ARCH -S rmdir,unlink,unlinkat,rename -S renameat -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=delete
Auditing file deletions will create an audit trail for files that are removed from the system. The audit trail could aid in system troubleshooting, as well as, detecting malicious processes that attempt to delete log files to conceal their presence.
Req-10.2.7 Ensure auditd Collects File Deletion Events by User - rename At a minimum, the audit system should collect file deletion events for all users and root. If the auditd daemon is configured to use the augenrules program to read audit rules during daemon startup (the default), add the following line to a file with suffix .rules in the directory /etc/audit/rules.d, setting ARCH to either b32 or b64 as appropriate for your system:
-a always,exit -F arch=ARCH -S rename -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=delete
If the auditd daemon is configured to use the auditctl utility to read audit rules during daemon startup, add the following line to /etc/audit/audit.rules file, setting ARCH to either b32 or b64 as appropriate for your system:
-a always,exit -F arch=ARCH -S rename -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=delete
Auditing file deletions will create an audit trail for files that are removed from the system. The audit trail could aid in system troubleshooting, as well as, detecting malicious processes that attempt to delete log files to conceal their presence.
Req-10.2.7 Ensure auditd Collects Information on Exporting to Media (successful) At a minimum, the audit system should collect media exportation events for all users and root. If the auditd daemon is configured to use the augenrules program to read audit rules during daemon startup (the default), add the following line to a file with suffix .rules in the directory /etc/audit/rules.d, setting ARCH to either b32 or b64 as appropriate for your system:
-a always,exit -F arch=ARCH -S mount -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=export
If the auditd daemon is configured to use the auditctl utility to read audit rules during daemon startup, add the following line to /etc/audit/audit.rules file, setting ARCH to either b32 or b64 as appropriate for your system:
-a always,exit -F arch=ARCH -S mount -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=export
The unauthorized exportation of data to external media could result in an information leak where classified information, Privacy Act information, and intellectual property could be lost. An audit trail should be created each time a filesystem is mounted to help identify and guard against information loss.
Req-10.2.7 Ensure auditd Collects File Deletion Events by User - rmdir At a minimum, the audit system should collect file deletion events for all users and root. If the auditd daemon is configured to use the augenrules program to read audit rules during daemon startup (the default), add the following line to a file with suffix .rules in the directory /etc/audit/rules.d, setting ARCH to either b32 or b64 as appropriate for your system:
-a always,exit -F arch=ARCH -S rmdir -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=delete
If the auditd daemon is configured to use the auditctl utility to read audit rules during daemon startup, add the following line to /etc/audit/audit.rules file, setting ARCH to either b32 or b64 as appropriate for your system:
-a always,exit -F arch=ARCH -S rmdir -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=delete
Auditing file deletions will create an audit trail for files that are removed from the system. The audit trail could aid in system troubleshooting, as well as, detecting malicious processes that attempt to delete log files to conceal their presence.
Req-10.3 Enable Auditing for Processes Which Start Prior to the Audit Daemon To ensure all processes can be audited, even those which start prior to the audit daemon, add the argument audit=1 to the default GRUB 2 command line for the Linux operating system. To ensure that audit=1 is added as a kernel command line argument to newly installed kernels, add audit=1 to the default Grub2 command line for Linux operating systems. Modify the line within /etc/default/grub as shown below:
GRUB_CMDLINE_LINUX="... audit=1 ..."
Run the following command to update command line for already installed kernels:
# grubby --update-kernel=ALL --args="audit=1"
Each process on the system carries an "auditable" flag which indicates whether its activities can be audited. Although auditd takes care of enabling this for all processes which launch after it does, adding the kernel argument ensures it is set for every process during boot.
Req-10.3 Enable Auditing for Processes Which Start Prior to the Audit Daemon To ensure all processes can be audited, even those which start prior to the audit daemon, add the argument audit=1 to all BLS (Boot Loader Specification) entries ('options' line) for the Linux operating system in /boot/loader/entries/*.conf. Each process on the system carries an "auditable" flag which indicates whether its activities can be audited. Although auditd takes care of enabling this for all processes which launch after it does, adding the kernel argument ensures it is set for every process during boot.
Req-10.4 Enable the NTP Daemon The ntpd service can be enabled with the following command:
$ sudo systemctl enable ntpd.service
Enabling the ntpd service ensures that the ntpd service will be running and that the system will synchronize its time to any servers specified. This is important whether the system is configured to be a client (and synchronize only its own clock) or it is also acting as an NTP server to other systems. Synchronizing time is essential for authentication services such as Kerberos, but it is also important for maintaining accurate logs and auditing possible security breaches.

The NTP daemon offers all of the functionality of ntpdate, which is now deprecated.
Req-10.4 Install the ntp service The ntpd service should be installed. Time synchronization (using NTP) is required by almost all network and administrative tasks (syslog, cryptographic based services (authentication, etc.), etc.). Ntpd is regulary maintained and updated, supporting security features such as RFC 5906.
Req-10.4 Install the systemd_timesyncd Service The systemd_timesyncd service should be installed. Time synchronization (using NTP) is required by almost all network and administrative tasks (syslog, cryptographic based services (authentication, etc.), etc.). systemd_timesyncd is a part of the systemd suite and acts as a NTP client.
Req-10.4 Enable systemd_timesyncd Service The systemd_timesyncd service can be enabled with the following command:
$ sudo systemctl enable systemd_timesyncd.service
Enabling the systemd_timesyncd service ensures that this host uses the ntp protocol to fetch time data from a ntp server. Synchronizing time is essential for authentication services such as Kerberos, but it is also important for maintaining accurate logs and auditing possible security breaches.

Additional information on Ubuntu network time protocol is available at https://help.ubuntu.com/lts/serverguide/NTP.html.en.
Req-10.4 Enable the NTP Daemon The ntp service can be enabled with the following command:
$ sudo systemctl enable ntp.service
Enabling the ntp service ensures that the ntp service will be running and that the system will synchronize its time to any servers specified. This is important whether the system is configured to be a client (and synchronize only its own clock) or it is also acting as an NTP server to other systems. Synchronizing time is essential for authentication services such as Kerberos, but it is also important for maintaining accurate logs and auditing possible security breaches.

The NTP daemon offers all of the functionality of ntpdate, which is now deprecated.
Req-10.4 The Chrony package is installed System time should be synchronized between all systems in an environment. This is typically done by establishing an authoritative time server or set of servers and having all systems synchronize their clocks to them. The chrony package can be installed with the following command:
$ sudo yum install chrony
Time synchronization is important to support time sensitive security mechanisms like Kerberos and also ensures log files have consistent time records across the enterprise, which aids in forensic investigations.
Req-10.4.1
Req-10.4.3
Specify a Remote NTP Server Depending on specific functional requirements of a concrete production environment, the Oracle Linux 7 system can be configured to utilize the services of the chronyd NTP daemon (the default), or services of the ntpd NTP daemon. Refer to https://docs.oracle.com/en/operating-systems/oracle-linux/7/network/ol7-nettime.html for more detailed comparison of the features of both of the choices, and for further guidance how to choose between the two NTP daemons.
To specify a remote NTP server for time synchronization, perform the following:
  • if the system is configured to use the chronyd as the NTP daemon (the default), edit the file /etc/chrony.conf as follows,
  • if the system is configured to use the ntpd as the NTP daemon, edit the file /etc/ntp.conf as documented below.
Add or correct the following lines, substituting the IP or hostname of a remote NTP server for ntpserver:
server ntpserver
This instructs the NTP software to contact that remote server to obtain time data.
Synchronizing with an NTP server makes it possible to collate system logs from multiple sources or correlate computer events with real time events.
Req-10.4.1
Req-10.4.3
Specify a Remote NTP Server To specify a remote NTP server for time synchronization, edit the file /etc/ntp.conf. Add or correct the following lines, substituting the IP or hostname of a remote NTP server for ntpserver:
server ntpserver
This instructs the NTP software to contact that remote server to obtain time data.
Synchronizing with an NTP server makes it possible to collate system logs from multiple sources or correlate computer events with real time events.
Req-10.4.1 Enable the NTP Daemon Run the following command to determine the current status of the chronyd service:
$ sudo systemctl is-active chronyd
If the service is running, it should return the following:
active
Note: The chronyd daemon is enabled by default.

Run the following command to determine the current status of the ntpd service:
$ sudo systemctl is-active ntpd
If the service is running, it should return the following:
active
Note: The ntpd daemon is not enabled by default. Though as mentioned in the previous sections in certain environments the ntpd daemon might be preferred to be used rather than the chronyd one. Refer to: https://docs.oracle.com/en/operating-systems/oracle-linux/7/network/ol7-nettime.html for guidance which NTP daemon to choose depending on the environment used.
Enabling some of chronyd or ntpd services ensures that the NTP daemon will be running and that the system will synchronize its time to any servers specified. This is important whether the system is configured to be a client (and synchronize only its own clock) or it is also acting as an NTP server to other systems. Synchronizing time is essential for authentication services such as Kerberos, but it is also important for maintaining accurate logs and auditing possible security breaches.

The chronyd and ntpd NTP daemons offer all of the functionality of ntpdate, which is now deprecated.
Req-10.4.2.b Record Attempts to Alter the localtime File If the auditd daemon is configured to use the augenrules program to read audit rules during daemon startup (the default), add the following line to a file with suffix .rules in the directory /etc/audit/rules.d:
-w /etc/localtime -p wa -k audit_time_rules
If the auditd daemon is configured to use the auditctl utility to read audit rules during daemon startup, add the following line to /etc/audit/audit.rules file:
-w /etc/localtime -p wa -k audit_time_rules
The -k option allows for the specification of a key in string form that can be used for better reporting capability through ausearch and aureport and should always be used.
Arbitrary changes to the system time can be used to obfuscate nefarious activities in log files, as well as to confuse network services that are highly dependent upon an accurate system time (such as sshd). All changes to the system time should be audited.
Req-10.4.2.b Record attempts to alter time through adjtimex If the auditd daemon is configured to use the augenrules program to read audit rules during daemon startup (the default), add the following line to a file with suffix .rules in the directory /etc/audit/rules.d:
-a always,exit -F arch=b32 -S adjtimex -F key=audit_time_rules
If the system is 64 bit then also add the following line:
-a always,exit -F arch=b64 -S adjtimex -F key=audit_time_rules
If the auditd daemon is configured to use the auditctl utility to read audit rules during daemon startup, add the following line to /etc/audit/audit.rules file:
-a always,exit -F arch=b32 -S adjtimex -F key=audit_time_rules
If the system is 64 bit then also add the following line:
-a always,exit -F arch=b64 -S adjtimex -F key=audit_time_rules
The -k option allows for the specification of a key in string form that can be used for better reporting capability through ausearch and aureport. Multiple system calls can be defined on the same line to save space if desired, but is not required. See an example of multiple combined syscalls:
-a always,exit -F arch=b64 -S adjtimex,settimeofday -F key=audit_time_rules
Arbitrary changes to the system time can be used to obfuscate nefarious activities in log files, as well as to confuse network services that are highly dependent upon an accurate system time (such as sshd). All changes to the system time should be audited.
Req-10.4.2.b Record Attempts to Alter Time Through stime If the auditd daemon is configured to use the augenrules program to read audit rules during daemon startup (the default), add the following line to a file with suffix .rules in the directory /etc/audit/rules.d for both 32 bit and 64 bit systems:
-a always,exit -F arch=b32 -S stime -F key=audit_time_rules
Since the 64 bit version of the "stime" system call is not defined in the audit lookup table, the corresponding "-F arch=b64" form of this rule is not expected to be defined on 64 bit systems (the aforementioned "-F arch=b32" stime rule form itself is sufficient for both 32 bit and 64 bit systems). If the auditd daemon is configured to use the auditctl utility to read audit rules during daemon startup, add the following line to /etc/audit/audit.rules file for both 32 bit and 64 bit systems:
-a always,exit -F arch=b32 -S stime -F key=audit_time_rules
Since the 64 bit version of the "stime" system call is not defined in the audit lookup table, the corresponding "-F arch=b64" form of this rule is not expected to be defined on 64 bit systems (the aforementioned "-F arch=b32" stime rule form itself is sufficient for both 32 bit and 64 bit systems). The -k option allows for the specification of a key in string form that can be used for better reporting capability through ausearch and aureport. Multiple system calls can be defined on the same line to save space if desired, but is not required. See an example of multiple combined system calls:
-a always,exit -F arch=b64 -S adjtimex,settimeofday -F key=audit_time_rules
Arbitrary changes to the system time can be used to obfuscate nefarious activities in log files, as well as to confuse network services that are highly dependent upon an accurate system time (such as sshd). All changes to the system time should be audited.
Req-10.4.2.b Record attempts to alter time through settimeofday If the auditd daemon is configured to use the augenrules program to read audit rules during daemon startup (the default), add the following line to a file with suffix .rules in the directory /etc/audit/rules.d:
-a always,exit -F arch=b32 -S settimeofday -F key=audit_time_rules
If the system is 64 bit then also add the following line:
-a always,exit -F arch=b64 -S settimeofday -F key=audit_time_rules
If the auditd daemon is configured to use the auditctl utility to read audit rules during daemon startup, add the following line to /etc/audit/audit.rules file:
-a always,exit -F arch=b32 -S settimeofday -F key=audit_time_rules
If the system is 64 bit then also add the following line:
-a always,exit -F arch=b64 -S settimeofday -F key=audit_time_rules
The -k option allows for the specification of a key in string form that can be used for better reporting capability through ausearch and aureport. Multiple system calls can be defined on the same line to save space if desired, but is not required. See an example of multiple combined syscalls:
-a always,exit -F arch=b64 -S adjtimex,settimeofday -F key=audit_time_rules
Arbitrary changes to the system time can be used to obfuscate nefarious activities in log files, as well as to confuse network services that are highly dependent upon an accurate system time (such as sshd). All changes to the system time should be audited.
Req-10.4.2.b Record Attempts to Alter Time Through clock_settime If the auditd daemon is configured to use the augenrules program to read audit rules during daemon startup (the default), add the following line to a file with suffix .rules in the directory /etc/audit/rules.d:
-a always,exit -F arch=b32 -S clock_settime -F a0=0x0 -F key=time-change
If the system is 64 bit then also add the following line:
-a always,exit -F arch=b64 -S clock_settime -F a0=0x0 -F key=time-change
If the auditd daemon is configured to use the auditctl utility to read audit rules during daemon startup, add the following line to /etc/audit/audit.rules file:
-a always,exit -F arch=b32 -S clock_settime -F a0=0x0 -F key=time-change
If the system is 64 bit then also add the following line:
-a always,exit -F arch=b64 -S clock_settime -F a0=0x0 -F key=time-change
The -k option allows for the specification of a key in string form that can be used for better reporting capability through ausearch and aureport. Multiple system calls can be defined on the same line to save space if desired, but is not required. See an example of multiple combined syscalls:
-a always,exit -F arch=b64 -S adjtimex,settimeofday -F key=audit_time_rules
Arbitrary changes to the system time can be used to obfuscate nefarious activities in log files, as well as to confuse network services that are highly dependent upon an accurate system time (such as sshd). All changes to the system time should be audited.
Req-10.4.3 A remote time server for Chrony is configured Chrony is a daemon which implements the Network Time Protocol (NTP). It is designed to synchronize system clocks across a variety of systems and use a source that is highly accurate. More information on chrony can be found at https://chrony-project.org/. Chrony can be configured to be a client and/or a server. Add or edit server or pool lines to /etc/chrony.conf as appropriate:
server <remote-server>
Multiple servers may be configured.
If chrony is in use on the system proper configuration is vital to ensuring time synchronization is working properly.
Req-10.4.3 Chrony Configure Pool and Server Chrony is a daemon which implements the Network Time Protocol (NTP). It is designed to synchronize system clocks across a variety of systems and use a source that is highly accurate. More information on chrony can be found at https://chrony-project.org/. Chrony can be configured to be a client and/or a server. Add or edit server or pool lines to /etc/chrony.conf as appropriate:
server <remote-server>
Multiple servers may be configured.
If chrony is in use on the system proper configuration is vital to ensuring time synchronization is working properly.
Req-10.4.3 Configure Systemd Timesyncd Root Distance Servers systemd-timesyncd server configuration should have RootDistanceMaxSec is listed in accordance with local policy. This setting describes the maximum estimated time required for a packet to travel to the server connected. Configuring systemd-timesyncd RootDistanceMaxSec ensures time synchronization is using servers that are close enough to the client.
Req-10.4.3 Specify Additional Remote NTP Servers Depending on specific functional requirements of a concrete production environment, the Oracle Linux 7 system can be configured to utilize the services of the chronyd NTP daemon (the default), or services of the ntpd NTP daemon. Refer to https://docs.oracle.com/en/operating-systems/oracle-linux/7/network/ol7-nettime.html for more detailed comparison of the features of both of the choices, and for further guidance how to choose between the two NTP daemons.
Additional NTP servers can be specified for time synchronization. To do so, perform the following:
  • if the system is configured to use the chronyd as the NTP daemon (the default), edit the file /etc/chrony.conf as follows,
  • if the system is configured to use the ntpd as the NTP daemon, edit the file /etc/ntp.conf as documented below.
Add additional lines of the following form, substituting the IP address or hostname of a remote NTP server for ntpserver:
server ntpserver
Specifying additional NTP servers increases the availability of accurate time data, in the event that one of the specified servers becomes unavailable. This is typical for a system acting as an NTP server for other systems.
Req-10.4.3 Configure Systemd Timesyncd Servers systemd-timesyncd is a daemon that has been added for synchronizing the system clock across the network. The systemd-timesyncd daemon implements: - Implements an SNTP client - Runs with minimal privileges - Saves the current clock to disk every time a new NTP sync has been acquired - Is hooked up with networkd to only operate when network connectivity is available Add or edit server or pool lines to /etc/systemd/timesyncd.conf as appropriate:
server <remote-server>
Multiple servers may be configured.
Configuring systemd-timesyncd ensures time synchronization is working properly.
Req-10.4.3 Specify Additional Remote NTP Servers Additional NTP servers can be specified for time synchronization in the file /etc/ntp.conf. To do so, add additional lines of the following form, substituting the IP address or hostname of a remote NTP server for ntpserver:
server ntpserver
Specifying additional NTP servers increases the availability of accurate time data, in the event that one of the specified servers becomes unavailable. This is typical for a system acting as an NTP server for other systems.
Req-10.5 System Audit Logs Must Have Mode 0640 or Less Permissive Determine where the audit logs are stored with the following command:
$ sudo grep -iw log_file /etc/audit/auditd.conf
log_file = /var/log/audit/audit.log
Configure the audit log to be protected from unauthorized read access by setting the correct permissive mode with the following command:
$ sudo chmod 0600 audit_log_file
By default, audit_log_file is "/var/log/audit/audit.log".
If users can write to audit logs, audit trails can be modified or destroyed.
Req-10.5.1 System Audit Logs Must Be Owned By Root All audit logs must be owned by root user. The path for audit log can be configured via log_file parameter in
/etc/audit/auditd.conf
or by default, the path for audit log is
/var/log/audit/
. To properly set the owner of /var/log/audit/*, run the command:
$ sudo chown root /var/log/audit/* 
Unauthorized disclosure of audit records can reveal system and configuration data to attackers, thus compromising its confidentiality.
Req-10.5.1
Req-10.5.2
Ensure System Log Files Have Correct Permissions The file permissions for all log files written by rsyslog should be set to 640, or more restrictive. These log files are determined by the second part of each Rule line in /etc/rsyslog.conf and typically all appear in /var/log. For each log file LOGFILE referenced in /etc/rsyslog.conf, run the following command to inspect the file's permissions:
$ ls -l LOGFILE
If the permissions are not 640 or more restrictive, run the following command to correct this:
$ sudo chmod 640 LOGFILE
"
Log files can contain valuable information regarding system configuration. If the system log files are not protected unauthorized users could change the logged data, eliminating their forensic value.
Req-10.5.1 System Audit Directories Must Be Group Owned By Root All audit directories must be group owned by root user. By default, the path for audit log is
/var/log/audit/
. To properly set the group owner of /var/log/audit, run the command:
$ sudo chgrp root /var/log/audit
If log_group in /etc/audit/auditd.conf is set to a group other than the root group account, change the group ownership of the audit directories to this specific group.
Unauthorized disclosure of audit records can reveal system and configuration data to attackers, thus compromising its confidentiality.
Req-10.5.1
Req-10.5.2
Ensure Log Files Are Owned By Appropriate User The owner of all log files written by rsyslog should be root. These log files are determined by the second part of each Rule line in /etc/rsyslog.conf and typically all appear in /var/log. For each log file LOGFILE referenced in /etc/rsyslog.conf, run the following command to inspect the file's owner:
$ ls -l LOGFILE
If the owner is not root, run the following command to correct this:
$ sudo chown root LOGFILE
The log files generated by rsyslog contain valuable information regarding system configuration, user authentication, and other such information. Log files should be protected from unauthorized access.
Req-10.5.1 System Audit Logs Must Be Owned By Root All audit logs must be owned by root user and group. By default, the path for audit log is
/var/log/audit/
. To properly set the owner of /var/log/audit, run the command:
$ sudo chown root /var/log/audit 
To properly set the owner of /var/log/audit/*, run the command:
$ sudo chown root /var/log/audit/* 
Unauthorized disclosure of audit records can reveal system and configuration data to attackers, thus compromising its confidentiality.
Req-10.5.1 System Audit Directories Must Be Owned By Root All audit directories must be owned by root user. By default, the path for audit log is
/var/log/audit/
. To properly set the owner of /var/log/audit, run the command:
$ sudo chown root /var/log/audit 
Unauthorized disclosure of audit records can reveal system and configuration data to attackers, thus compromising its confidentiality.
Req-10.5.1 System Audit Logs Must Be Group Owned By Root All audit logs must be group owned by root user. The path for audit log can be configured via log_file parameter in
/etc/audit/auditd.conf
or, by default, the path for audit log is
/var/log/audit/
. To properly set the group owner of /var/log/audit/*, run the command:
$ sudo chgrp root /var/log/audit/*
If log_group in /etc/audit/auditd.conf is set to a group other than the root group account, change the group ownership of the audit logs to this specific group.
Unauthorized disclosure of audit records can reveal system and configuration data to attackers, thus compromising its confidentiality.
Req-10.5.1
Req-10.5.2
Ensure Log Files Are Owned By Appropriate Group The group-owner of all log files written by rsyslog should be root. These log files are determined by the second part of each Rule line in /etc/rsyslog.conf and typically all appear in /var/log. For each log file LOGFILE referenced in /etc/rsyslog.conf, run the following command to inspect the file's group owner:
$ ls -l LOGFILE
If the owner is not root, run the following command to correct this:
$ sudo chgrp root LOGFILE
The log files generated by rsyslog contain valuable information regarding system configuration, user authentication, and other such information. Log files should be protected from unauthorized access.
Req-10.5.2 Make the auditd Configuration Immutable If the auditd daemon is configured to use the augenrules program to read audit rules during daemon startup (the default), add the following line to a file with suffix .rules in the directory /etc/audit/rules.d in order to make the auditd configuration immutable:
-e 2
If the auditd daemon is configured to use the auditctl utility to read audit rules during daemon startup, add the following line to /etc/audit/audit.rules file in order to make the auditd configuration immutable:
-e 2
With this setting, a reboot will be required to change any audit rules.
Making the audit configuration immutable prevents accidental as well as malicious modification of the audit rules, although it may be problematic if legitimate changes are needed during system operation.
Req-10.5.3 Configure auditd to use audispd's syslog plugin To configure the auditd service to use the syslog plug-in of the audispd audit event multiplexor, set the active line in /etc/audisp/plugins.d/syslog.conf to yes. Restart the auditd service:
$ sudo service auditd restart
The auditd service does not include the ability to send audit records to a centralized server for management directly. It does, however, include a plug-in for audit event multiplexor (audispd) to pass audit records to the local syslog server.
Req-10.5.3 Ensure the default plugins for the audit dispatcher are Installed The audit-audispd-plugins package should be installed. Information stored in one location is vulnerable to accidental or incidental deletion or alteration. Off-loading is a common process in information systems with limited audit storage capacity.
Req-10.5.5 Record Events that Modify the System's Discretionary Access Controls - chmod At a minimum, the audit system should collect file permission changes for all users and root. If the auditd daemon is configured to use the augenrules program to read audit rules during daemon startup (the default), add the following line to a file with suffix .rules in the directory /etc/audit/rules.d:
-a always,exit -F arch=b32 -S chmod -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=perm_mod
If the system is 64 bit then also add the following line:
-a always,exit -F arch=b64 -S chmod -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=perm_mod
If the auditd daemon is configured to use the auditctl utility to read audit rules during daemon startup, add the following line to /etc/audit/audit.rules file:
-a always,exit -F arch=b32 -S chmod -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=perm_mod
If the system is 64 bit then also add the following line:
-a always,exit -F arch=b64 -S chmod -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=perm_mod
The changing of file permissions could indicate that a user is attempting to gain access to information that would otherwise be disallowed. Auditing DAC modifications can facilitate the identification of patterns of abuse among both authorized and unauthorized users.
Req-10.5.5 Record Events that Modify the System's Mandatory Access Controls in usr/share If the auditd daemon is configured to use the augenrules program to read audit rules during daemon startup (the default), add the following line to a file with suffix .rules in the directory /etc/audit/rules.d:
-w /usr/share/selinux/ -p wa -k MAC-policy
If the auditd daemon is configured to use the auditctl utility to read audit rules during daemon startup, add the following line to /etc/audit/audit.rules file:
-w /usr/share/selinux/ -p wa -k MAC-policy
The system's mandatory access policy (SELinux) should not be arbitrarily changed by anything other than administrator action. All changes to MAC policy should be audited.
Req-10.5.5 Record Events that Modify the System's Network Environment If the auditd daemon is configured to use the augenrules program to read audit rules during daemon startup (the default), add the following lines to a file with suffix .rules in the directory /etc/audit/rules.d, setting ARCH to either b32 or b64 as appropriate for your system:
-a always,exit -F arch=ARCH -S sethostname,setdomainname -F key=audit_rules_networkconfig_modification
-w /etc/issue -p wa -k audit_rules_networkconfig_modification
-w /etc/issue.net -p wa -k audit_rules_networkconfig_modification
-w /etc/hosts -p wa -k audit_rules_networkconfig_modification
-w /etc/sysconfig/network -p wa -k audit_rules_networkconfig_modification
If the auditd daemon is configured to use the auditctl utility to read audit rules during daemon startup, add the following lines to /etc/audit/audit.rules file, setting ARCH to either b32 or b64 as appropriate for your system:
-a always,exit -F arch=ARCH -S sethostname,setdomainname -F key=audit_rules_networkconfig_modification
-w /etc/issue -p wa -k audit_rules_networkconfig_modification
-w /etc/issue.net -p wa -k audit_rules_networkconfig_modification
-w /etc/hosts -p wa -k audit_rules_networkconfig_modification
-w /etc/sysconfig/network -p wa -k audit_rules_networkconfig_modification
The network environment should not be modified by anything other than administrator action. Any change to network parameters should be audited.
Req-10.5.5 Record Events that Modify the System's Discretionary Access Controls - fchown At a minimum, the audit system should collect file permission changes for all users and root. If the auditd daemon is configured to use the augenrules program to read audit rules during daemon startup (the default), add the following line to a file with suffix .rules in the directory /etc/audit/rules.d:
-a always,exit -F arch=b32 -S fchown -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=perm_mod
If the system is 64 bit then also add the following line:
-a always,exit -F arch=b64 -S fchown -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=perm_mod
If the auditd daemon is configured to use the auditctl utility to read audit rules during daemon startup, add the following line to /etc/audit/audit.rules file:
-a always,exit -F arch=b32 -S fchown -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=perm_mod
If the system is 64 bit then also add the following line:
-a always,exit -F arch=b64 -S fchown -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=perm_mod
The changing of file permissions could indicate that a user is attempting to gain access to information that would otherwise be disallowed. Auditing DAC modifications can facilitate the identification of patterns of abuse among both authorized and unauthorized users.
Req-10.5.5 Record Events that Modify the System's Discretionary Access Controls - setxattr At a minimum, the audit system should collect file permission changes for all users and root. If the auditd daemon is configured to use the augenrules program to read audit rules during daemon startup (the default), add the following line to a file with suffix .rules in the directory /etc/audit/rules.d:
-a always,exit -F arch=b32 -S setxattr -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=perm_mod
If the system is 64 bit then also add the following line:
-a always,exit -F arch=b64 -S setxattr -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=perm_mod
If the auditd daemon is configured to use the auditctl utility to read audit rules during daemon startup, add the following line to /etc/audit/audit.rules file:
-a always,exit -F arch=b32 -S setxattr -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=perm_mod
If the system is 64 bit then also add the following line:
-a always,exit -F arch=b64 -S setxattr -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=perm_mod
The changing of file permissions could indicate that a user is attempting to gain access to information that would otherwise be disallowed. Auditing DAC modifications can facilitate the identification of patterns of abuse among both authorized and unauthorized users.
Req-10.5.5 Record Events that Modify the System's Mandatory Access Controls If the auditd daemon is configured to use the augenrules program to read audit rules during daemon startup (the default), add the following line to a file with suffix .rules in the directory /etc/audit/rules.d:
-w /etc/selinux/ -p wa -k MAC-policy
If the auditd daemon is configured to use the auditctl utility to read audit rules during daemon startup, add the following line to /etc/audit/audit.rules file:
-w /etc/selinux/ -p wa -k MAC-policy
The system's mandatory access policy (SELinux) should not be arbitrarily changed by anything other than administrator action. All changes to MAC policy should be audited.
Req-10.5.5 Record Events that Modify the System's Discretionary Access Controls - fchownat At a minimum, the audit system should collect file permission changes for all users and root. If the auditd daemon is configured to use the augenrules program to read audit rules during daemon startup (the default), add the following line to a file with suffix .rules in the directory /etc/audit/rules.d:
-a always,exit -F arch=b32 -S fchownat -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=perm_mod
If the system is 64 bit then also add the following line:
-a always,exit -F arch=b64 -S fchownat -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=perm_mod
If the auditd daemon is configured to use the auditctl utility to read audit rules during daemon startup, add the following line to /etc/audit/audit.rules file:
-a always,exit -F arch=b32 -S fchownat -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=perm_mod
If the system is 64 bit then also add the following line:
-a always,exit -F arch=b64 -S fchownat -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=perm_mod
The changing of file permissions could indicate that a user is attempting to gain access to information that would otherwise be disallowed. Auditing DAC modifications can facilitate the identification of patterns of abuse among both authorized and unauthorized users.
Req-10.5.5 Record Events that Modify the System's Discretionary Access Controls - chown At a minimum, the audit system should collect file permission changes for all users and root. If the auditd daemon is configured to use the augenrules program to read audit rules during daemon startup (the default), add the following line to a file with suffix .rules in the directory /etc/audit/rules.d:
-a always,exit -F arch=b32 -S chown -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=perm_mod
If the system is 64 bit then also add the following line:
-a always,exit -F arch=b64 -S chown -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=perm_mod
If the auditd daemon is configured to use the auditctl utility to read audit rules during daemon startup, add the following line to /etc/audit/audit.rules file:
-a always,exit -F arch=b32 -S chown -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=perm_mod
If the system is 64 bit then also add the following line:
-a always,exit -F arch=b64 -S chown -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=perm_mod
The changing of file permissions could indicate that a user is attempting to gain access to information that would otherwise be disallowed. Auditing DAC modifications can facilitate the identification of patterns of abuse among both authorized and unauthorized users.
Req-10.5.5 Record Events that Modify the System's Discretionary Access Controls - fchmodat At a minimum, the audit system should collect file permission changes for all users and root. If the auditd daemon is configured to use the augenrules program to read audit rules during daemon startup (the default), add the following line to a file with suffix .rules in the directory /etc/audit/rules.d:
-a always,exit -F arch=b32 -S fchmodat -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=perm_mod
If the system is 64 bit then also add the following line:
-a always,exit -F arch=b64 -S fchmodat -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=perm_mod
If the auditd daemon is configured to use the auditctl utility to read audit rules during daemon startup, add the following line to /etc/audit/audit.rules file:
-a always,exit -F arch=b32 -S fchmodat -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=perm_mod
If the system is 64 bit then also add the following line:
-a always,exit -F arch=b64 -S fchmodat -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=perm_mod
The changing of file permissions could indicate that a user is attempting to gain access to information that would otherwise be disallowed. Auditing DAC modifications can facilitate the identification of patterns of abuse among both authorized and unauthorized users.
Req-10.5.5 Record Events that Modify the System's Discretionary Access Controls - lremovexattr At a minimum, the audit system should collect file permission changes for all users and root.

If the auditd daemon is configured to use the augenrules program to read audit rules during daemon startup (the default), add the following line to a file with suffix .rules in the directory /etc/audit/rules.d:
-a always,exit -F arch=b32 -S lremovexattr -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=perm_mod


If the system is 64 bit then also add the following line:
-a always,exit -F arch=b64 -S lremovexattr -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=perm_mod


If the auditd daemon is configured to use the auditctl utility to read audit rules during daemon startup, add the following line to /etc/audit/audit.rules file:
-a always,exit -F arch=b32 -S lremovexattr -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=perm_mod


If the system is 64 bit then also add the following line:
-a always,exit -F arch=b64 -S lremovexattr -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=perm_mod
The changing of file permissions could indicate that a user is attempting to gain access to information that would otherwise be disallowed. Auditing DAC modifications can facilitate the identification of patterns of abuse among both authorized and unauthorized users.
Req-10.5.5 Record Events that Modify the System's Discretionary Access Controls - lsetxattr At a minimum, the audit system should collect file permission changes for all users and root. If the auditd daemon is configured to use the augenrules program to read audit rules during daemon startup (the default), add the following line to a file with suffix .rules in the directory /etc/audit/rules.d:
-a always,exit -F arch=b32 -S lsetxattr -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=perm_mod
If the system is 64 bit then also add the following line:
-a always,exit -F arch=b64 -S lsetxattr -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=perm_mod
If the auditd daemon is configured to use the auditctl utility to read audit rules during daemon startup, add the following line to /etc/audit/audit.rules file:
-a always,exit -F arch=b32 -S lsetxattr -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=perm_mod
If the system is 64 bit then also add the following line:
-a always,exit -F arch=b64 -S lsetxattr -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=perm_mod
The changing of file permissions could indicate that a user is attempting to gain access to information that would otherwise be disallowed. Auditing DAC modifications can facilitate the identification of patterns of abuse among both authorized and unauthorized users.
Req-10.5.5 Record Events that Modify the System's Discretionary Access Controls - fsetxattr At a minimum, the audit system should collect file permission changes for all users and root. If the auditd daemon is configured to use the augenrules program to read audit rules during daemon startup (the default), add the following line to a file with suffix .rules in the directory /etc/audit/rules.d:
-a always,exit -F arch=b32 -S fsetxattr -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=perm_mod
If the system is 64 bit then also add the following line:
-a always,exit -F arch=b64 -S fsetxattr -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=perm_mod
If the auditd daemon is configured to use the auditctl utility to read audit rules during daemon startup, add the following line to /etc/audit/audit.rules file:
-a always,exit -F arch=b32 -S fsetxattr -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=perm_mod
If the system is 64 bit then also add the following line:
-a always,exit -F arch=b64 -S fsetxattr -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=perm_mod
The changing of file permissions could indicate that a user is attempting to gain access to information that would otherwise be disallowed. Auditing DAC modifications can facilitate the identification of patterns of abuse among both authorized and unauthorized users.
Req-10.5.5 Record Events that Modify the System's Discretionary Access Controls - removexattr At a minimum, the audit system should collect file permission changes for all users and root.

If the auditd daemon is configured to use the augenrules program to read audit rules during daemon startup (the default), add the following line to a file with suffix .rules in the directory /etc/audit/rules.d:
-a always,exit -F arch=b32 -S removexattr -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=perm_mod


If the system is 64 bit then also add the following line:
-a always,exit -F arch=b64 -S removexattr -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=perm_mod


If the auditd daemon is configured to use the auditctl utility to read audit rules during daemon startup, add the following line to /etc/audit/audit.rules file:
-a always,exit -F arch=b32 -S removexattr -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=perm_mod


If the system is 64 bit then also add the following line:
-a always,exit -F arch=b64 -S removexattr -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=perm_mod
The changing of file permissions could indicate that a user is attempting to gain access to information that would otherwise be disallowed. Auditing DAC modifications can facilitate the identification of patterns of abuse among both authorized and unauthorized users.
Req-10.5.5 Record Events that Modify the System's Discretionary Access Controls - fchmod At a minimum, the audit system should collect file permission changes for all users and root. If the auditd daemon is configured to use the augenrules program to read audit rules during daemon startup (the default), add the following line to a file with suffix .rules in the directory /etc/audit/rules.d:
-a always,exit -F arch=b32 -S fchmod -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=perm_mod
If the system is 64 bit then also add the following line:
-a always,exit -F arch=b64 -S fchmod -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=perm_mod
If the auditd daemon is configured to use the auditctl utility to read audit rules during daemon startup, add the following line to /etc/audit/audit.rules file:
-a always,exit -F arch=b32 -S fchmod -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=perm_mod
If the system is 64 bit then also add the following line:
-a always,exit -F arch=b64 -S fchmod -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=perm_mod
The changing of file permissions could indicate that a user is attempting to gain access to information that would otherwise be disallowed. Auditing DAC modifications can facilitate the identification of patterns of abuse among both authorized and unauthorized users.
Req-10.5.5 Record Events that Modify the System's Discretionary Access Controls - lchown At a minimum, the audit system should collect file permission changes for all users and root. If the auditd daemon is configured to use the augenrules program to read audit rules during daemon startup (the default), add the following line to a file with suffix .rules in the directory /etc/audit/rules.d:
-a always,exit -F arch=b32 -S lchown -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=perm_mod
If the system is 64 bit then also add the following line:
-a always,exit -F arch=b64 -S lchown -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=perm_mod
If the auditd daemon is configured to use the auditctl utility to read audit rules during daemon startup, add the following line to /etc/audit/audit.rules file:
-a always,exit -F arch=b32 -S lchown -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=perm_mod
If the system is 64 bit then also add the following line:
-a always,exit -F arch=b64 -S lchown -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=perm_mod
The changing of file permissions could indicate that a user is attempting to gain access to information that would otherwise be disallowed. Auditing DAC modifications can facilitate the identification of patterns of abuse among both authorized and unauthorized users.
Req-10.5.5 Record Events that Modify the System's Discretionary Access Controls - fremovexattr At a minimum, the audit system should collect file permission changes for all users and root.

If the auditd daemon is configured to use the augenrules program to read audit rules during daemon startup (the default), add the following line to a file with suffix .rules in the directory /etc/audit/rules.d:
-a always,exit -F arch=b32 -S fremovexattr -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=perm_mod


If the system is 64 bit then also add the following line:
-a always,exit -F arch=b64 -S fremovexattr -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=perm_mod


If the auditd daemon is configured to use the auditctl utility to read audit rules during daemon startup, add the following line to /etc/audit/audit.rules file:
-a always,exit -F arch=b32 -S fremovexattr -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=perm_mod


If the system is 64 bit then also add the following line:
-a always,exit -F arch=b64 -S fremovexattr -F auid>=1000 -F auid!=unset -F key=perm_mod
The changing of file permissions could indicate that a user is attempting to gain access to information that would otherwise be disallowed. Auditing DAC modifications can facilitate the identification of patterns of abuse among both authorized and unauthorized users.
Req-10.7 Configure auditd max_log_file_action Upon Reaching Maximum Log Size The default action to take when the logs reach their maximum size is to rotate the log files, discarding the oldest one. To configure the action taken by auditd, add or correct the line in /etc/audit/auditd.conf:
max_log_file_action = ACTION
Possible values for ACTION are described in the auditd.conf man page. These include:
  • ignore
  • syslog
  • suspend
  • rotate
  • keep_logs
Set the ACTION to rotate. The setting is case-insensitive.
Automatically rotating logs (by setting this to rotate) minimizes the chances of the system unexpectedly running out of disk space by being overwhelmed with log data. However, for systems that must never discard log data, or which use external processes to transfer it and reclaim space, keep_logs can be employed.
Req-10.7 Configure auditd max_log_file_action Upon Reaching Maximum Log Size The default action to take when the logs reach their maximum size is to rotate the log files, discarding the oldest one. To configure the action taken by auditd, add or correct the line in /etc/audit/auditd.conf:
max_log_file_action = ACTION
Possible values for ACTION are described in the auditd.conf man page. These include:
  • ignore
  • syslog
  • suspend
  • rotate
  • keep_logs
Set the ACTION to rotate to ensure log rotation occurs. This is the default. The setting is case-insensitive.
Automatically rotating logs (by setting this to rotate) minimizes the chances of the system unexpectedly running out of disk space by being overwhelmed with log data. However, for systems that must never discard log data, or which use external processes to transfer it and reclaim space, keep_logs can be employed.
Req-10.7 Configure auditd space_left on Low Disk Space The auditd service can be configured to take an action when disk space is running low but prior to running out of space completely. Edit the file /etc/audit/auditd.conf. Add or modify the following line, substituting PERCENTAGE appropriately:
space_left = PERCENTAGE%
Set this value to at least 25 to cause the system to notify the user of an issue.
Notifying administrators of an impending disk space problem may allow them to take corrective action prior to any disruption.
Req-10.7 Ensure Logrotate Runs Periodically The logrotate utility allows for the automatic rotation of log files. The frequency of rotation is specified in /etc/logrotate.conf, which triggers a cron task or a timer. To configure logrotate to run daily, add or correct the following line in /etc/logrotate.conf:
# rotate log files frequency
daily
Log files that are not properly rotated run the risk of growing so large that they fill up the /var/log partition. Valuable logging information could be lost if the /var/log partition becomes full.
Req-10.7 Configure auditd admin_space_left Action on Low Disk Space The auditd service can be configured to take an action when disk space is running low but prior to running out of space completely. Edit the file /etc/audit/auditd.conf. Add or modify the following line, substituting ACTION appropriately:
admin_space_left_action = ACTION
Set this value to single to cause the system to switch to single user mode for corrective action. Acceptable values also include suspend and halt. For certain systems, the need for availability outweighs the need to log all actions, and a different setting should be determined. Details regarding all possible values for ACTION are described in the auditd.conf man page.
Administrators should be made aware of an inability to record audit records. If a separate partition or logical volume of adequate size is used, running low on space for audit records should never occur.
Req-10.7 Configure auditd Max Log File Size Determine the amount of audit data (in megabytes) which should be retained in each log file. Edit the file /etc/audit/auditd.conf. Add or modify the following line, substituting the correct value of 6 for STOREMB:
max_log_file = STOREMB
Set the value to 6 (MB) or higher for general-purpose systems. Larger values, of course, support retention of even more audit data.
The total storage for audit log files must be large enough to retain log information over the period required. This is a function of the maximum log file size and the number of logs retained.
Req-10.7 Configure auditd space_left on Low Disk Space The auditd service can be configured to take an action when disk space is running low but prior to running out of space completely. Edit the file /etc/audit/auditd.conf. Add or modify the following line, substituting SIZE_in_MB appropriately:
space_left = SIZE_in_MB
Set this value to the appropriate size in Megabytes cause the system to notify the user of an issue.
Notifying administrators of an impending disk space problem may allow them to take corrective action prior to any disruption.
Req-10.7 Enable logrotate Timer The logrotate timer can be enabled with the following command:
$ sudo systemctl enable logrotate.timer
Log files that are not properly rotated run the risk of growing so large that they fill up the /var/log partition. Valuable logging information could be lost if the /var/log partition becomes full.
Req-10.7 Configure auditd admin_space_left on Low Disk Space The auditd service can be configured to take an action when disk space is running low but prior to running out of space completely. Edit the file /etc/audit/auditd.conf. Add or modify the following line, substituting PERCENTAGE appropriately:
admin_space_left = PERCENTAGE%
Set this value to 5 to cause the system to perform an action.
Notifying administrators of an impending disk space problem may allow them to take corrective action prior to any disruption.
Req-10.7 Configure auditd Number of Logs Retained Determine how many log files auditd should retain when it rotates logs. Edit the file /etc/audit/auditd.conf. Add or modify the following line, substituting NUMLOGS with the correct value of 5:
num_logs = NUMLOGS
Set the value to 5 for general-purpose systems. Note that values less than 2 result in no log rotation.
The total storage for audit log files must be large enough to retain log information over the period required. This is a function of the maximum log file size and the number of logs retained.
Req-10.7 Ensure logrotate is Installed logrotate is installed by default. The logrotate package can be installed with the following command:
 $ sudo yum install logrotate
The logrotate package provides the logrotate services.
Req-10.7 Configure auditd space_left Action on Low Disk Space The auditd service can be configured to take an action when disk space starts to run low. Edit the file /etc/audit/auditd.conf. Modify the following line, substituting ACTION appropriately:
space_left_action = ACTION
Possible values for ACTION are described in the auditd.conf man page. These include:
  • syslog
  • email
  • exec
  • suspend
  • single
  • halt
Set this to email (instead of the default, which is suspend) as it is more likely to get prompt attention. Acceptable values also include suspend, single, and halt.
Notifying administrators of an impending disk space problem may allow them to take corrective action prior to any disruption.
Req-10.7.a Configure auditd mail_acct Action on Low Disk Space The auditd service can be configured to send email to a designated account in certain situations. Add or correct the following line in /etc/audit/auditd.conf to ensure that administrators are notified via email for those situations:
action_mail_acct = root
Email sent to the root account is typically aliased to the administrators of the system, who can take appropriate action.
Req-11.4 Install the Host Intrusion Prevention System (HIPS) Module Install the McAfee Host Intrusion Prevention System (HIPS) Module if it is absolutely necessary. If SELinux is enabled, do not install or enable this module. Without a host-based intrusion detection tool, there is no system-level defense when an intruder gains access to a system or network. Additionally, a host-based intrusion prevention tool can provide methods to immediately lock out detected intrusion attempts.
Req-11.4 Install Intrusion Detection Software The base Oracle Linux 7 platform already includes a sophisticated auditing system that can detect intruder activity, as well as SELinux, which provides host-based intrusion prevention capabilities by confining privileged programs and user sessions which may become compromised. Host-based intrusion detection tools provide a system-level defense when an intruder gains access to a system or network.
Req-11.4 Install the Asset Configuration Compliance Module (ACCM) Install the Asset Configuration Compliance Module (ACCM). Without a host-based intrusion detection tool, there is no system-level defense when an intruder gains access to a system or network. Additionally, a host-based intrusion prevention tool can provide methods to immediately lock out detected intrusion attempts.
Req-11.4 Install the Policy Auditor (PA) Module Install the Policy Auditor (PA) Module. Without a host-based intrusion detection tool, there is no system-level defense when an intruder gains access to a system or network. Additionally, a host-based intrusion prevention tool can provide methods to immediately lock out detected intrusion attempts.
Req-11.5 Disable Prelinking The prelinking feature changes binaries in an attempt to decrease their startup time. In order to disable it, change or add the following line inside the file /etc/sysconfig/prelink:
PRELINKING=no
Next, run the following command to return binaries to a normal, non-prelinked state:
$ sudo /usr/sbin/prelink -ua
Because the prelinking feature changes binaries, it can interfere with the operation of certain software and/or modes such as AIDE, FIPS, etc.
Req-11.5 Configure Periodic Execution of AIDE At a minimum, AIDE should be configured to run a weekly scan. To implement a daily execution of AIDE at 4:05am using cron, add the following line to /etc/crontab:
05 4 * * * root /usr/sbin/aide --check
To implement a weekly execution of AIDE at 4:05am using cron, add the following line to /etc/crontab:
05 4 * * 0 root /usr/sbin/aide --check
AIDE can be executed periodically through other means; this is merely one example. The usage of cron's special time codes, such as @daily and @weekly is acceptable.
By default, AIDE does not install itself for periodic execution. Periodically running AIDE is necessary to reveal unexpected changes in installed files.

Unauthorized changes to the baseline configuration could make the system vulnerable to various attacks or allow unauthorized access to the operating system. Changes to operating system configurations can have unintended side effects, some of which may be relevant to security.

Detecting such changes and providing an automated response can help avoid unintended, negative consequences that could ultimately affect the security state of the operating system. The operating system's Information Management Officer (IMO)/Information System Security Officer (ISSO) and System Administrators (SAs) must be notified via email and/or monitoring system trap when there is an unauthorized modification of a configuration item.
Req-11.5 Configure Systemd Timer Execution of AIDE At a minimum, AIDE should be configured to run a weekly scan. To implement a systemd service and a timer unit to run the service periodically: For example, if a systemd timer is expected to be started every day at 5AM
OnCalendar=*-*-* 05:00:0
[Timer]
section in the timer unit and a Unit section starting the AIDE check service unit should be referred.
AIDE provides a means to check if unauthorized changes are made to the system. AIDE itself does not setup a periodic execution, so in order to detect unauthorized changes a systemd service to run the check and a systemd timer to take care of periodical execution of that systemd service should be defined.
Req-11.5 Verify and Correct File Permissions with RPM The RPM package management system can check file access permissions of installed software packages, including many that are important to system security. Verify that the file permissions of system files and commands match vendor values. Check the file permissions with the following command:
$ sudo rpm -Va | awk '{ if (substr($0,2,1)=="M") print $NF }'
Output indicates files that do not match vendor defaults. After locating a file with incorrect permissions, run the following command to determine which package owns it:
$ rpm -qf FILENAME

Next, run the following command to reset its permissions to the correct values:
$ sudo rpm --restore PACKAGENAME
Permissions on system binaries and configuration files that are too generous could allow an unauthorized user to gain privileges that they should not have. The permissions set by the vendor should be maintained. Any deviations from this baseline should be investigated.
Req-11.5 Verify and Correct Ownership with RPM The RPM package management system can check file ownership permissions of installed software packages, including many that are important to system security. After locating a file with incorrect permissions, which can be found with:
rpm -Va | awk '{ if (substr($0,6,1)=="U" || substr($0,7,1)=="G") print $NF }'
run the following command to determine which package owns it:
$ rpm -qf FILENAME
Next, run the following command to reset its permissions to the correct values:
$ sudo rpm --restore PACKAGENAME
Ownership of binaries and configuration files that is incorrect could allow an unauthorized user to gain privileges that they should not have. The ownership set by the vendor should be maintained. Any deviations from this baseline should be investigated.
Req-11.5 Verify File Hashes with RPM Without cryptographic integrity protections, system executables and files can be altered by unauthorized users without detection. The RPM package management system can check the hashes of installed software packages, including many that are important to system security. To verify that the cryptographic hash of system files and commands matches vendor values, run the following command to list which files on the system have hashes that differ from what is expected by the RPM database:
$ rpm -Va --noconfig | grep '^..5'
If the file was not expected to change, investigate the cause of the change using audit logs or other means. The package can then be reinstalled to restore the file. Run the following command to determine which package owns the file:
$ rpm -qf FILENAME
The package can be reinstalled from a yum repository using the command:
$ sudo yum reinstall PACKAGENAME
Alternatively, the package can be reinstalled from trusted media using the command:
$ sudo rpm -Uvh PACKAGENAME
The hashes of important files like system executables should match the information given by the RPM database. Executables with erroneous hashes could be a sign of nefarious activity on the system.
Req-11.5 Build and Test AIDE Database Run the following command to generate a new database:
$ sudo /usr/sbin/aide --init
By default, the database will be written to the file /var/lib/aide/aide.db.new.gz. Storing the database, the configuration file /etc/aide.conf, and the binary /usr/sbin/aide (or hashes of these files), in a secure location (such as on read-only media) provides additional assurance about their integrity. The newly-generated database can be installed as follows:
$ sudo cp /var/lib/aide/aide.db.new.gz /var/lib/aide/aide.db.gz
To initiate a manual check, run the following command:
$ sudo /usr/sbin/aide --check
If this check produces any unexpected output, investigate.
For AIDE to be effective, an initial database of "known-good" information about files must be captured and it should be able to be verified against the installed files.
Req-11.5 Install AIDE The aide package can be installed with the following command:
$ sudo yum install aide
The AIDE package must be installed if it is to be available for integrity checking.