Guide to the Secure Configuration of Ubuntu 18.04

with profile Profile for ANSSI DAT-NT28 Minimal Level
This profile contains items to be applied systematically.
The SCAP Security Guide Project
https://www.open-scap.org/security-policies/scap-security-guide
This guide presents a catalog of security-relevant configuration settings for Ubuntu 18.04. It is a rendering of content structured in the eXtensible Configuration Checklist Description Format (XCCDF) in order to support security automation. The SCAP content is is available in the scap-security-guide package which is developed at https://www.open-scap.org/security-policies/scap-security-guide.

Providing system administrators with such guidance informs them how to securely configure systems under their control in a variety of network roles. Policy makers and baseline creators can use this catalog of settings, with its associated references to higher-level security control catalogs, in order to assist them in security baseline creation. This guide is a catalog, not a checklist, and satisfaction of every item is not likely to be possible or sensible in many operational scenarios. However, the XCCDF format enables granular selection and adjustment of settings, and their association with OVAL and OCIL content provides an automated checking capability. Transformations of this document, and its associated automated checking content, are capable of providing baselines that meet a diverse set of policy objectives. Some example XCCDF Profiles, which are selections of items that form checklists and can be used as baselines, are available with this guide. They can be processed, in an automated fashion, with tools that support the Security Content Automation Protocol (SCAP). The DISA STIG, which provides required settings for US Department of Defense systems, is one example of a baseline created from this guidance.
Do not attempt to implement any of the settings in this guide without first testing them in a non-operational environment. The creators of this guidance assume no responsibility whatsoever for its use by other parties, and makes no guarantees, expressed or implied, about its quality, reliability, or any other characteristic.
Profile TitleProfile for ANSSI DAT-NT28 Minimal Level
Profile IDxccdf_org.ssgproject.content_profile_anssi_np_nt28_minimal

Revision History

Current version: 0.1.66

  • draft (as of 2023-02-20)

Platforms

  • cpe:/o:canonical:ubuntu_linux:18.04::~~lts~~~

Table of Contents

  1. System Settings
    1. Installing and Maintaining Software
    2. File Permissions and Masks
  2. Services
    1. APT service configuration
    2. Deprecated services

Checklist

contains 19 rules

System Settingsgroup

Contains rules that check correct system settings.

contains 14 rules

Installing and Maintaining Softwaregroup

The following sections contain information on security-relevant choices during the initial operating system installation process and the setup of software updates.

contains 2 rules

Sudogroup

Sudo, which stands for "su 'do'", provides the ability to delegate authority to certain users, groups of users, or system administrators. When configured for system users and/or groups, Sudo can allow a user or group to execute privileged commands that normally only root is allowed to execute.

For more information on Sudo and addition Sudo configuration options, see https://www.sudo.ws.

contains 2 rules

Ensure Users Re-Authenticate for Privilege Escalation - sudo !authenticaterule

The sudo !authenticate option, when specified, allows a user to execute commands using sudo without having to authenticate. This should be disabled by making sure that the !authenticate option does not exist in /etc/sudoers configuration file or any sudo configuration snippets in /etc/sudoers.d/.

Rationale:

Without re-authentication, users may access resources or perform tasks for which they do not have authorization.

When operating systems provide the capability to escalate a functional capability, it is critical that the user re-authenticate.

references:  SR 1.1, SR 1.10, SR 1.2, SR 1.3, SR 1.4, SR 1.5, SR 1.7, SR 1.8, SR 1.9, 4.3.3.5.1, 4.3.3.6.1, 4.3.3.6.2, 4.3.3.6.3, 4.3.3.6.4, 4.3.3.6.5, 4.3.3.6.6, 4.3.3.6.7, 4.3.3.6.8, 4.3.3.6.9, DSS05.04, DSS05.10, DSS06.03, DSS06.10, SRG-OS-000373-VMM-001470, SRG-OS-000373-VMM-001480, SRG-OS-000373-VMM-001490, BP28(R5), BP28(R59), IA-11, CM-6(a), PR.AC-1, PR.AC-7, SRG-OS-000373-GPOS-00156, SRG-OS-000373-GPOS-00157, SRG-OS-000373-GPOS-00158, CCI-002038, 1, 12, 15, 16, 5, A.18.1.4, A.9.2.1, A.9.2.2, A.9.2.3, A.9.2.4, A.9.2.6, A.9.3.1, A.9.4.2, A.9.4.3

Remediation script:

for f in /etc/sudoers /etc/sudoers.d/* ; do
  if [ ! -e "$f" ] ; then
    continue
  fi
  matching_list=$(grep -P '^(?!#).*[\s]+\!authenticate.*$' $f | uniq )
  if ! test -z "$matching_list"; then
    while IFS= read -r entry; do
      # comment out "!authenticate" matches to preserve user data
      sed -i "s/^${entry}$/# &/g" $f
    done <<< "$matching_list"

    /usr/sbin/visudo -cf $f &> /dev/null || echo "Fail to validate $f with visudo"
  fi
done
Remediation script:
- name: Find /etc/sudoers.d/ files
  find:
    paths:
    - /etc/sudoers.d/
  register: sudoers
  tags:
  - NIST-800-53-CM-6(a)
  - NIST-800-53-IA-11
  - low_complexity
  - low_disruption
  - medium_severity
  - no_reboot_needed
  - restrict_strategy
  - sudo_remove_no_authenticate

- name: Remove lines containing !authenticate from sudoers files
  replace:
    regexp: (^(?!#).*[\s]+\!authenticate.*$)
    replace: '# \g<1>'
    path: '{{ item.path }}'
    validate: /usr/sbin/visudo -cf %s
  with_items:
  - path: /etc/sudoers
  - '{{ sudoers.files }}'
  tags:
  - NIST-800-53-CM-6(a)
  - NIST-800-53-IA-11
  - low_complexity
  - low_disruption
  - medium_severity
  - no_reboot_needed
  - restrict_strategy
  - sudo_remove_no_authenticate

Ensure Users Re-Authenticate for Privilege Escalation - sudo NOPASSWDrule

The sudo NOPASSWD tag, when specified, allows a user to execute commands using sudo without having to authenticate. This should be disabled by making sure that the NOPASSWD tag does not exist in /etc/sudoers configuration file or any sudo configuration snippets in /etc/sudoers.d/.

Rationale:

Without re-authentication, users may access resources or perform tasks for which they do not have authorization.

When operating systems provide the capability to escalate a functional capability, it is critical that the user re-authenticate.

references:  SR 1.1, SR 1.10, SR 1.2, SR 1.3, SR 1.4, SR 1.5, SR 1.7, SR 1.8, SR 1.9, 4.3.3.5.1, 4.3.3.6.1, 4.3.3.6.2, 4.3.3.6.3, 4.3.3.6.4, 4.3.3.6.5, 4.3.3.6.6, 4.3.3.6.7, 4.3.3.6.8, 4.3.3.6.9, DSS05.04, DSS05.10, DSS06.03, DSS06.10, SRG-OS-000373-VMM-001470, SRG-OS-000373-VMM-001480, SRG-OS-000373-VMM-001490, BP28(R5), BP28(R59), IA-11, CM-6(a), PR.AC-1, PR.AC-7, SRG-OS-000373-GPOS-00156, SRG-OS-000373-GPOS-00157, SRG-OS-000373-GPOS-00158, CCI-002038, 1, 12, 15, 16, 5, A.18.1.4, A.9.2.1, A.9.2.2, A.9.2.3, A.9.2.4, A.9.2.6, A.9.3.1, A.9.4.2, A.9.4.3

Remediation script:

for f in /etc/sudoers /etc/sudoers.d/* ; do
  if [ ! -e "$f" ] ; then
    continue
  fi
  matching_list=$(grep -P '^(?!#).*[\s]+NOPASSWD[\s]*\:.*$' $f | uniq )
  if ! test -z "$matching_list"; then
    while IFS= read -r entry; do
      # comment out "NOPASSWD" matches to preserve user data
      sed -i "s/^${entry}$/# &/g" $f
    done <<< "$matching_list"

    /usr/sbin/visudo -cf $f &> /dev/null || echo "Fail to validate $f with visudo"
  fi
done
Remediation script:
- name: Find /etc/sudoers.d/ files
  find:
    paths:
    - /etc/sudoers.d/
  register: sudoers
  tags:
  - NIST-800-53-CM-6(a)
  - NIST-800-53-IA-11
  - low_complexity
  - low_disruption
  - medium_severity
  - no_reboot_needed
  - restrict_strategy
  - sudo_remove_nopasswd

- name: Remove lines containing NOPASSWD from sudoers files
  replace:
    regexp: (^(?!#).*[\s]+NOPASSWD[\s]*\:.*$)
    replace: '# \g<1>'
    path: '{{ item.path }}'
    validate: /usr/sbin/visudo -cf %s
  with_items:
  - path: /etc/sudoers
  - '{{ sudoers.files }}'
  tags:
  - NIST-800-53-CM-6(a)
  - NIST-800-53-IA-11
  - low_complexity
  - low_disruption
  - medium_severity
  - no_reboot_needed
  - restrict_strategy
  - sudo_remove_nopasswd

File Permissions and Masksgroup

Traditional Unix security relies heavily on file and directory permissions to prevent unauthorized users from reading or modifying files to which they should not have access.

Several of the commands in this section search filesystems for files or directories with certain characteristics, and are intended to be run on every local partition on a given system. When the variable PART appears in one of the commands below, it means that the command is intended to be run repeatedly, with the name of each local partition substituted for PART in turn.

The following command prints a list of all xfs partitions on the local system, which is the default filesystem for Ubuntu 18.04 installations: 

$ mount -t xfs | awk '{print $3}'
For any systems that use a different local filesystem type, modify this command as appropriate.

contains 12 rules

Verify Permissions on Important Files and Directoriesgroup

Permissions for many files on a system must be set restrictively to ensure sensitive information is properly protected. This section discusses important permission restrictions which can be verified to ensure that no harmful discrepancies have arisen.

contains 12 rules
contains 12 rules

Verify Group Who Owns group Filerule

To properly set the group owner of /etc/group, run the command: 

$ sudo chgrp root /etc/group

Rationale:

The /etc/group file contains information regarding groups that are configured on the system. Protection of this file is important for system security.

references:  SR 2.1, SR 5.2, 4.3.3.7.3, APO01.06, DSS05.04, DSS05.07, DSS06.02, CM-6(a), AC-6(1), PR.AC-4, PR.DS-5, SRG-OS-000480-GPOS-00227, 5.5.2.2, CIP-003-8 R5.1.1, CIP-003-8 R5.3, CIP-004-6 R2.3, CIP-007-3 R2.1, CIP-007-3 R2.2, CIP-007-3 R2.3, CIP-007-3 R5.1, CIP-007-3 R5.1.1, CIP-007-3 R5.1.2, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 18, 3, 5, A.10.1.1, A.11.1.4, A.11.1.5, A.11.2.1, A.13.1.1, A.13.1.3, A.13.2.1, A.13.2.3, A.13.2.4, A.14.1.2, A.14.1.3, A.6.1.2, A.7.1.1, A.7.1.2, A.7.3.1, A.8.2.2, A.8.2.3, A.9.1.1, A.9.1.2, A.9.2.3, A.9.4.1, A.9.4.4, A.9.4.5, Req-8.7.c

Remediation script:



chgrp 0 /etc/group
Remediation script:
- name: Test for existence /etc/group
  stat:
    path: /etc/group
  register: file_exists
  tags:
  - CJIS-5.5.2.2
  - NIST-800-53-AC-6(1)
  - NIST-800-53-CM-6(a)
  - PCI-DSS-Req-8.7.c
  - configure_strategy
  - file_groupowner_etc_group
  - low_complexity
  - low_disruption
  - medium_severity
  - no_reboot_needed

- name: Ensure group owner 0 on /etc/group
  file:
    path: /etc/group
    group: '0'
  when: file_exists.stat is defined and file_exists.stat.exists
  tags:
  - CJIS-5.5.2.2
  - NIST-800-53-AC-6(1)
  - NIST-800-53-CM-6(a)
  - PCI-DSS-Req-8.7.c
  - configure_strategy
  - file_groupowner_etc_group
  - low_complexity
  - low_disruption
  - medium_severity
  - no_reboot_needed

Verify Group Who Owns gshadow Filerule

To properly set the group owner of /etc/gshadow, run the command: 

$ sudo chgrp shadow /etc/gshadow

Rationale:

The /etc/gshadow file contains group password hashes. Protection of this file is critical for system security.

references:  SR 2.1, SR 5.2, 4.3.3.7.3, APO01.06, DSS05.04, DSS05.07, DSS06.02, CM-6(a), AC-6(1), PR.AC-4, PR.DS-5, SRG-OS-000480-GPOS-00227, CIP-003-8 R5.1.1, CIP-003-8 R5.3, CIP-004-6 R2.3, CIP-007-3 R2.1, CIP-007-3 R2.2, CIP-007-3 R2.3, CIP-007-3 R5.1, CIP-007-3 R5.1.1, CIP-007-3 R5.1.2, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 18, 3, 5, A.10.1.1, A.11.1.4, A.11.1.5, A.11.2.1, A.13.1.1, A.13.1.3, A.13.2.1, A.13.2.3, A.13.2.4, A.14.1.2, A.14.1.3, A.6.1.2, A.7.1.1, A.7.1.2, A.7.3.1, A.8.2.2, A.8.2.3, A.9.1.1, A.9.1.2, A.9.2.3, A.9.4.1, A.9.4.4, A.9.4.5

Remediation script:



chgrp 42 /etc/gshadow
Remediation script:
- name: Test for existence /etc/gshadow
  stat:
    path: /etc/gshadow
  register: file_exists
  tags:
  - NIST-800-53-AC-6(1)
  - NIST-800-53-CM-6(a)
  - configure_strategy
  - file_groupowner_etc_gshadow
  - low_complexity
  - low_disruption
  - medium_severity
  - no_reboot_needed

- name: Ensure group owner 42 on /etc/gshadow
  file:
    path: /etc/gshadow
    group: '42'
  when: file_exists.stat is defined and file_exists.stat.exists
  tags:
  - NIST-800-53-AC-6(1)
  - NIST-800-53-CM-6(a)
  - configure_strategy
  - file_groupowner_etc_gshadow
  - low_complexity
  - low_disruption
  - medium_severity
  - no_reboot_needed

Verify Group Who Owns passwd Filerule

To properly set the group owner of /etc/passwd, run the command: 

$ sudo chgrp root /etc/passwd

Rationale:

The /etc/passwd file contains information about the users that are configured on the system. Protection of this file is critical for system security.

references:  SR 2.1, SR 5.2, 4.3.3.7.3, APO01.06, DSS05.04, DSS05.07, DSS06.02, CM-6(a), AC-6(1), PR.AC-4, PR.DS-5, SRG-OS-000480-GPOS-00227, 5.5.2.2, CIP-003-8 R5.1.1, CIP-003-8 R5.3, CIP-004-6 R2.3, CIP-007-3 R2.1, CIP-007-3 R2.2, CIP-007-3 R2.3, CIP-007-3 R5.1, CIP-007-3 R5.1.1, CIP-007-3 R5.1.2, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 18, 3, 5, A.10.1.1, A.11.1.4, A.11.1.5, A.11.2.1, A.13.1.1, A.13.1.3, A.13.2.1, A.13.2.3, A.13.2.4, A.14.1.2, A.14.1.3, A.6.1.2, A.7.1.1, A.7.1.2, A.7.3.1, A.8.2.2, A.8.2.3, A.9.1.1, A.9.1.2, A.9.2.3, A.9.4.1, A.9.4.4, A.9.4.5, Req-8.7.c

Remediation script:



chgrp 0 /etc/passwd
Remediation script:
- name: Test for existence /etc/passwd
  stat:
    path: /etc/passwd
  register: file_exists
  tags:
  - CJIS-5.5.2.2
  - NIST-800-53-AC-6(1)
  - NIST-800-53-CM-6(a)
  - PCI-DSS-Req-8.7.c
  - configure_strategy
  - file_groupowner_etc_passwd
  - low_complexity
  - low_disruption
  - medium_severity
  - no_reboot_needed

- name: Ensure group owner 0 on /etc/passwd
  file:
    path: /etc/passwd
    group: '0'
  when: file_exists.stat is defined and file_exists.stat.exists
  tags:
  - CJIS-5.5.2.2
  - NIST-800-53-AC-6(1)
  - NIST-800-53-CM-6(a)
  - PCI-DSS-Req-8.7.c
  - configure_strategy
  - file_groupowner_etc_passwd
  - low_complexity
  - low_disruption
  - medium_severity
  - no_reboot_needed

Verify Group Who Owns shadow Filerule

To properly set the group owner of /etc/shadow, run the command: 

$ sudo chgrp shadow /etc/shadow

Rationale:

The /etc/shadow file stores password hashes. Protection of this file is critical for system security.

references:  SR 2.1, SR 5.2, 4.3.3.7.3, APO01.06, DSS05.04, DSS05.07, DSS06.02, CM-6(a), AC-6(1), PR.AC-4, PR.DS-5, SRG-OS-000480-GPOS-00227, 5.5.2.2, CIP-003-8 R5.1.1, CIP-003-8 R5.3, CIP-004-6 R2.3, CIP-007-3 R2.1, CIP-007-3 R2.2, CIP-007-3 R2.3, CIP-007-3 R5.1, CIP-007-3 R5.1.1, CIP-007-3 R5.1.2, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 18, 3, 5, A.10.1.1, A.11.1.4, A.11.1.5, A.11.2.1, A.13.1.1, A.13.1.3, A.13.2.1, A.13.2.3, A.13.2.4, A.14.1.2, A.14.1.3, A.6.1.2, A.7.1.1, A.7.1.2, A.7.3.1, A.8.2.2, A.8.2.3, A.9.1.1, A.9.1.2, A.9.2.3, A.9.4.1, A.9.4.4, A.9.4.5, Req-8.7.c

Remediation script:



chgrp 42 /etc/shadow
Remediation script:
- name: Test for existence /etc/shadow
  stat:
    path: /etc/shadow
  register: file_exists
  tags:
  - CJIS-5.5.2.2
  - NIST-800-53-AC-6(1)
  - NIST-800-53-CM-6(a)
  - PCI-DSS-Req-8.7.c
  - configure_strategy
  - file_groupowner_etc_shadow
  - low_complexity
  - low_disruption
  - medium_severity
  - no_reboot_needed

- name: Ensure group owner 42 on /etc/shadow
  file:
    path: /etc/shadow
    group: '42'
  when: file_exists.stat is defined and file_exists.stat.exists
  tags:
  - CJIS-5.5.2.2
  - NIST-800-53-AC-6(1)
  - NIST-800-53-CM-6(a)
  - PCI-DSS-Req-8.7.c
  - configure_strategy
  - file_groupowner_etc_shadow
  - low_complexity
  - low_disruption
  - medium_severity
  - no_reboot_needed

Verify User Who Owns group Filerule

To properly set the owner of /etc/group, run the command: 

$ sudo chown root /etc/group

Rationale:

The /etc/group file contains information regarding groups that are configured on the system. Protection of this file is important for system security.

references:  SR 2.1, SR 5.2, A.10.1.1, A.11.1.4, A.11.1.5, A.11.2.1, A.13.1.1, A.13.1.3, A.13.2.1, A.13.2.3, A.13.2.4, A.14.1.2, A.14.1.3, A.6.1.2, A.7.1.1, A.7.1.2, A.7.3.1, A.8.2.2, A.8.2.3, A.9.1.1, A.9.1.2, A.9.2.3, A.9.4.1, A.9.4.4, A.9.4.5, APO01.06, DSS05.04, DSS05.07, DSS06.02, CM-6(a), AC-6(1), PR.AC-4, PR.DS-5, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 18, 3, 5, CCI-002223, CIP-003-8 R5.1.1, CIP-003-8 R5.3, CIP-004-6 R2.3, CIP-007-3 R2.1, CIP-007-3 R2.2, CIP-007-3 R2.3, CIP-007-3 R5.1, CIP-007-3 R5.1.1, CIP-007-3 R5.1.2, SRG-OS-000480-GPOS-00227, 5.5.2.2, 4.3.3.7.3, Req-8.7.c

Remediation script:



chown 0 /etc/group
Remediation script:
- name: Test for existence /etc/group
  stat:
    path: /etc/group
  register: file_exists
  tags:
  - CJIS-5.5.2.2
  - NIST-800-53-AC-6(1)
  - NIST-800-53-CM-6(a)
  - PCI-DSS-Req-8.7.c
  - configure_strategy
  - file_owner_etc_group
  - low_complexity
  - low_disruption
  - medium_severity
  - no_reboot_needed

- name: Ensure owner 0 on /etc/group
  file:
    path: /etc/group
    owner: '0'
  when: file_exists.stat is defined and file_exists.stat.exists
  tags:
  - CJIS-5.5.2.2
  - NIST-800-53-AC-6(1)
  - NIST-800-53-CM-6(a)
  - PCI-DSS-Req-8.7.c
  - configure_strategy
  - file_owner_etc_group
  - low_complexity
  - low_disruption
  - medium_severity
  - no_reboot_needed

Verify User Who Owns gshadow Filerule

To properly set the owner of /etc/gshadow, run the command: 

$ sudo chown root /etc/gshadow

Rationale:

The /etc/gshadow file contains group password hashes. Protection of this file is critical for system security.

references:  SR 2.1, SR 5.2, 4.3.3.7.3, APO01.06, DSS05.04, DSS05.07, DSS06.02, BP28(R36), CM-6(a), AC-6(1), PR.AC-4, PR.DS-5, SRG-OS-000480-GPOS-00227, CCI-002223, CIP-003-8 R5.1.1, CIP-003-8 R5.3, CIP-004-6 R2.3, CIP-007-3 R2.1, CIP-007-3 R2.2, CIP-007-3 R2.3, CIP-007-3 R5.1, CIP-007-3 R5.1.1, CIP-007-3 R5.1.2, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 18, 3, 5, A.10.1.1, A.11.1.4, A.11.1.5, A.11.2.1, A.13.1.1, A.13.1.3, A.13.2.1, A.13.2.3, A.13.2.4, A.14.1.2, A.14.1.3, A.6.1.2, A.7.1.1, A.7.1.2, A.7.3.1, A.8.2.2, A.8.2.3, A.9.1.1, A.9.1.2, A.9.2.3, A.9.4.1, A.9.4.4, A.9.4.5

Remediation script:



chown 0 /etc/gshadow
Remediation script:
- name: Test for existence /etc/gshadow
  stat:
    path: /etc/gshadow
  register: file_exists
  tags:
  - NIST-800-53-AC-6(1)
  - NIST-800-53-CM-6(a)
  - configure_strategy
  - file_owner_etc_gshadow
  - low_complexity
  - low_disruption
  - medium_severity
  - no_reboot_needed

- name: Ensure owner 0 on /etc/gshadow
  file:
    path: /etc/gshadow
    owner: '0'
  when: file_exists.stat is defined and file_exists.stat.exists
  tags:
  - NIST-800-53-AC-6(1)
  - NIST-800-53-CM-6(a)
  - configure_strategy
  - file_owner_etc_gshadow
  - low_complexity
  - low_disruption
  - medium_severity
  - no_reboot_needed

Verify User Who Owns passwd Filerule

To properly set the owner of /etc/passwd, run the command: 

$ sudo chown root /etc/passwd

Rationale:

The /etc/passwd file contains information about the users that are configured on the system. Protection of this file is critical for system security.

references:  SR 2.1, SR 5.2, A.10.1.1, A.11.1.4, A.11.1.5, A.11.2.1, A.13.1.1, A.13.1.3, A.13.2.1, A.13.2.3, A.13.2.4, A.14.1.2, A.14.1.3, A.6.1.2, A.7.1.1, A.7.1.2, A.7.3.1, A.8.2.2, A.8.2.3, A.9.1.1, A.9.1.2, A.9.2.3, A.9.4.1, A.9.4.4, A.9.4.5, APO01.06, DSS05.04, DSS05.07, DSS06.02, CM-6(a), AC-6(1), PR.AC-4, PR.DS-5, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 18, 3, 5, CCI-002223, CIP-003-8 R5.1.1, CIP-003-8 R5.3, CIP-004-6 R2.3, CIP-007-3 R2.1, CIP-007-3 R2.2, CIP-007-3 R2.3, CIP-007-3 R5.1, CIP-007-3 R5.1.1, CIP-007-3 R5.1.2, SRG-OS-000480-GPOS-00227, 5.5.2.2, 4.3.3.7.3, Req-8.7.c

Remediation script:



chown 0 /etc/passwd
Remediation script:
- name: Test for existence /etc/passwd
  stat:
    path: /etc/passwd
  register: file_exists
  tags:
  - CJIS-5.5.2.2
  - NIST-800-53-AC-6(1)
  - NIST-800-53-CM-6(a)
  - PCI-DSS-Req-8.7.c
  - configure_strategy
  - file_owner_etc_passwd
  - low_complexity
  - low_disruption
  - medium_severity
  - no_reboot_needed

- name: Ensure owner 0 on /etc/passwd
  file:
    path: /etc/passwd
    owner: '0'
  when: file_exists.stat is defined and file_exists.stat.exists
  tags:
  - CJIS-5.5.2.2
  - NIST-800-53-AC-6(1)
  - NIST-800-53-CM-6(a)
  - PCI-DSS-Req-8.7.c
  - configure_strategy
  - file_owner_etc_passwd
  - low_complexity
  - low_disruption
  - medium_severity
  - no_reboot_needed

Verify User Who Owns shadow Filerule

To properly set the owner of /etc/shadow, run the command: 

$ sudo chown root /etc/shadow

Rationale:

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.

references:  SR 2.1, SR 5.2, 4.3.3.7.3, APO01.06, DSS05.04, DSS05.07, DSS06.02, BP28(R36), CM-6(a), AC-6(1), PR.AC-4, PR.DS-5, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 18, 3, 5, CCI-002223, CIP-003-8 R5.1.1, CIP-003-8 R5.3, CIP-004-6 R2.3, CIP-007-3 R2.1, CIP-007-3 R2.2, CIP-007-3 R2.3, CIP-007-3 R5.1, CIP-007-3 R5.1.1, CIP-007-3 R5.1.2, SRG-OS-000480-GPOS-00227, 5.5.2.2, A.10.1.1, A.11.1.4, A.11.1.5, A.11.2.1, A.13.1.1, A.13.1.3, A.13.2.1, A.13.2.3, A.13.2.4, A.14.1.2, A.14.1.3, A.6.1.2, A.7.1.1, A.7.1.2, A.7.3.1, A.8.2.2, A.8.2.3, A.9.1.1, A.9.1.2, A.9.2.3, A.9.4.1, A.9.4.4, A.9.4.5, Req-8.7.c

Remediation script:



chown 0 /etc/shadow
Remediation script:
- name: Test for existence /etc/shadow
  stat:
    path: /etc/shadow
  register: file_exists
  tags:
  - CJIS-5.5.2.2
  - NIST-800-53-AC-6(1)
  - NIST-800-53-CM-6(a)
  - PCI-DSS-Req-8.7.c
  - configure_strategy
  - file_owner_etc_shadow
  - low_complexity
  - low_disruption
  - medium_severity
  - no_reboot_needed

- name: Ensure owner 0 on /etc/shadow
  file:
    path: /etc/shadow
    owner: '0'
  when: file_exists.stat is defined and file_exists.stat.exists
  tags:
  - CJIS-5.5.2.2
  - NIST-800-53-AC-6(1)
  - NIST-800-53-CM-6(a)
  - PCI-DSS-Req-8.7.c
  - configure_strategy
  - file_owner_etc_shadow
  - low_complexity
  - low_disruption
  - medium_severity
  - no_reboot_needed

Verify Permissions on group Filerule

To properly set the permissions of /etc/passwd, run the command: 

$ sudo chmod 0644 /etc/passwd

Rationale:

The /etc/group file contains information regarding groups that are configured on the system. Protection of this file is important for system security.

references:  SR 2.1, SR 5.2, 4.3.3.7.3, APO01.06, DSS05.04, DSS05.07, DSS06.02, BP28(R36), CM-6(a), AC-6(1), PR.AC-4, PR.DS-5, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 18, 3, 5, CCI-002223, CIP-003-8 R5.1.1, CIP-003-8 R5.3, CIP-004-6 R2.3, CIP-007-3 R2.1, CIP-007-3 R2.2, CIP-007-3 R2.3, CIP-007-3 R5.1, CIP-007-3 R5.1.1, CIP-007-3 R5.1.2, SRG-OS-000480-GPOS-00227, 5.5.2.2, A.10.1.1, A.11.1.4, A.11.1.5, A.11.2.1, A.13.1.1, A.13.1.3, A.13.2.1, A.13.2.3, A.13.2.4, A.14.1.2, A.14.1.3, A.6.1.2, A.7.1.1, A.7.1.2, A.7.3.1, A.8.2.2, A.8.2.3, A.9.1.1, A.9.1.2, A.9.2.3, A.9.4.1, A.9.4.4, A.9.4.5, Req-8.7.c

Remediation script:




chmod o-xwt,u-xs,g-xws /etc/group
Remediation script:
- name: Test for existence /etc/group
  stat:
    path: /etc/group
  register: file_exists
  tags:
  - CJIS-5.5.2.2
  - NIST-800-53-AC-6(1)
  - NIST-800-53-CM-6(a)
  - PCI-DSS-Req-8.7.c
  - configure_strategy
  - file_permissions_etc_group
  - low_complexity
  - low_disruption
  - medium_severity
  - no_reboot_needed

- name: Ensure permission o-xwt,u-xs,g-xws on /etc/group
  file:
    path: /etc/group
    mode: o-xwt,u-xs,g-xws
  when: file_exists.stat is defined and file_exists.stat.exists
  tags:
  - CJIS-5.5.2.2
  - NIST-800-53-AC-6(1)
  - NIST-800-53-CM-6(a)
  - PCI-DSS-Req-8.7.c
  - configure_strategy
  - file_permissions_etc_group
  - low_complexity
  - low_disruption
  - medium_severity
  - no_reboot_needed

Verify Permissions on gshadow Filerule

To properly set the permissions of /etc/gshadow, run the command: 

$ sudo chmod 0640 /etc/gshadow

Rationale:

The /etc/gshadow file contains group password hashes. Protection of this file is critical for system security.

references:  SR 2.1, SR 5.2, 4.3.3.7.3, APO01.06, DSS05.04, DSS05.07, DSS06.02, BP28(R36), CM-6(a), AC-6(1), PR.AC-4, PR.DS-5, SRG-OS-000480-GPOS-00227, CCI-002223, CIP-003-8 R5.1.1, CIP-003-8 R5.3, CIP-004-6 R2.3, CIP-007-3 R2.1, CIP-007-3 R2.2, CIP-007-3 R2.3, CIP-007-3 R5.1, CIP-007-3 R5.1.1, CIP-007-3 R5.1.2, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 18, 3, 5, A.10.1.1, A.11.1.4, A.11.1.5, A.11.2.1, A.13.1.1, A.13.1.3, A.13.2.1, A.13.2.3, A.13.2.4, A.14.1.2, A.14.1.3, A.6.1.2, A.7.1.1, A.7.1.2, A.7.3.1, A.8.2.2, A.8.2.3, A.9.1.1, A.9.1.2, A.9.2.3, A.9.4.1, A.9.4.4, A.9.4.5

Remediation script:




chmod o-xwrt,u-xs,g-xws /etc/gshadow
Remediation script:
- name: Test for existence /etc/gshadow
  stat:
    path: /etc/gshadow
  register: file_exists
  tags:
  - NIST-800-53-AC-6(1)
  - NIST-800-53-CM-6(a)
  - configure_strategy
  - file_permissions_etc_gshadow
  - low_complexity
  - low_disruption
  - medium_severity
  - no_reboot_needed

- name: Ensure permission o-xwrt,u-xs,g-xws on /etc/gshadow
  file:
    path: /etc/gshadow
    mode: o-xwrt,u-xs,g-xws
  when: file_exists.stat is defined and file_exists.stat.exists
  tags:
  - NIST-800-53-AC-6(1)
  - NIST-800-53-CM-6(a)
  - configure_strategy
  - file_permissions_etc_gshadow
  - low_complexity
  - low_disruption
  - medium_severity
  - no_reboot_needed

Verify Permissions on passwd Filerule

To properly set the permissions of /etc/passwd, run the command: 

$ sudo chmod 0644 /etc/passwd

Rationale:

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.

references:  SR 2.1, SR 5.2, 4.3.3.7.3, APO01.06, DSS05.04, DSS05.07, DSS06.02, BP28(R36), CM-6(a), AC-6(1), PR.AC-4, PR.DS-5, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 18, 3, 5, CCI-002223, CIP-003-8 R5.1.1, CIP-003-8 R5.3, CIP-004-6 R2.3, CIP-007-3 R2.1, CIP-007-3 R2.2, CIP-007-3 R2.3, CIP-007-3 R5.1, CIP-007-3 R5.1.1, CIP-007-3 R5.1.2, SRG-OS-000480-GPOS-00227, 5.5.2.2, A.10.1.1, A.11.1.4, A.11.1.5, A.11.2.1, A.13.1.1, A.13.1.3, A.13.2.1, A.13.2.3, A.13.2.4, A.14.1.2, A.14.1.3, A.6.1.2, A.7.1.1, A.7.1.2, A.7.3.1, A.8.2.2, A.8.2.3, A.9.1.1, A.9.1.2, A.9.2.3, A.9.4.1, A.9.4.4, A.9.4.5, Req-8.7.c

Remediation script:




chmod o-xwt,u-xs,g-xws /etc/passwd
Remediation script:
- name: Test for existence /etc/passwd
  stat:
    path: /etc/passwd
  register: file_exists
  tags:
  - CJIS-5.5.2.2
  - NIST-800-53-AC-6(1)
  - NIST-800-53-CM-6(a)
  - PCI-DSS-Req-8.7.c
  - configure_strategy
  - file_permissions_etc_passwd
  - low_complexity
  - low_disruption
  - medium_severity
  - no_reboot_needed

- name: Ensure permission o-xwt,u-xs,g-xws on /etc/passwd
  file:
    path: /etc/passwd
    mode: o-xwt,u-xs,g-xws
  when: file_exists.stat is defined and file_exists.stat.exists
  tags:
  - CJIS-5.5.2.2
  - NIST-800-53-AC-6(1)
  - NIST-800-53-CM-6(a)
  - PCI-DSS-Req-8.7.c
  - configure_strategy
  - file_permissions_etc_passwd
  - low_complexity
  - low_disruption
  - medium_severity
  - no_reboot_needed

Verify Permissions on shadow Filerule

To properly set the permissions of /etc/shadow, run the command: 

$ sudo chmod 0640 /etc/shadow

Rationale:

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.

references:  SR 2.1, SR 5.2, 4.3.3.7.3, APO01.06, DSS05.04, DSS05.07, DSS06.02, BP28(R36), CM-6(a), AC-6(1), PR.AC-4, PR.DS-5, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 18, 3, 5, CCI-002223, CIP-003-8 R5.1.1, CIP-003-8 R5.3, CIP-004-6 R2.3, CIP-007-3 R2.1, CIP-007-3 R2.2, CIP-007-3 R2.3, CIP-007-3 R5.1, CIP-007-3 R5.1.1, CIP-007-3 R5.1.2, SRG-OS-000480-GPOS-00227, 5.5.2.2, A.10.1.1, A.11.1.4, A.11.1.5, A.11.2.1, A.13.1.1, A.13.1.3, A.13.2.1, A.13.2.3, A.13.2.4, A.14.1.2, A.14.1.3, A.6.1.2, A.7.1.1, A.7.1.2, A.7.3.1, A.8.2.2, A.8.2.3, A.9.1.1, A.9.1.2, A.9.2.3, A.9.4.1, A.9.4.4, A.9.4.5, Req-8.7.c

Remediation script:




chmod o-xwrt,u-xs,g-xws /etc/shadow
Remediation script:
- name: Test for existence /etc/shadow
  stat:
    path: /etc/shadow
  register: file_exists
  tags:
  - CJIS-5.5.2.2
  - NIST-800-53-AC-6(1)
  - NIST-800-53-CM-6(a)
  - PCI-DSS-Req-8.7.c
  - configure_strategy
  - file_permissions_etc_shadow
  - low_complexity
  - low_disruption
  - medium_severity
  - no_reboot_needed

- name: Ensure permission o-xwrt,u-xs,g-xws on /etc/shadow
  file:
    path: /etc/shadow
    mode: o-xwrt,u-xs,g-xws
  when: file_exists.stat is defined and file_exists.stat.exists
  tags:
  - CJIS-5.5.2.2
  - NIST-800-53-AC-6(1)
  - NIST-800-53-CM-6(a)
  - PCI-DSS-Req-8.7.c
  - configure_strategy
  - file_permissions_etc_shadow
  - low_complexity
  - low_disruption
  - medium_severity
  - no_reboot_needed

Servicesgroup

The best protection against vulnerable software is running less software. This section describes how to review the software which Ubuntu 18.04 installs on a system and disable software which is not needed. It then enumerates the software packages installed on a default Ubuntu 18.04 system and provides guidance about which ones can be safely disabled.

Ubuntu 18.04 provides a convenient minimal install option that essentially installs the bare necessities for a functional system. When building Ubuntu 18.04 systems, it is highly recommended to select the minimal packages and then build up the system from there.

contains 5 rules

APT service configurationgroup

The apt service manage the package management and update of the whole system. Its configuration need to be properly defined to ensure efficient security updates, packages and repository authentication and proper lifecycle management.

contains 1 rule

Disable unauthenticated repositories in APT configurationrule

Unauthenticated repositories should not be used for updates.

Rationale:

Repositories hosts all packages that will be intsalled on the system during update. If a repository is not authenticated, the associated packages can't be trusted, and then should not be installed localy.

references:  BP28(R15)

Deprecated servicesgroup

Some deprecated software services impact the overall system security due to their behavior (leak of confidentiality in network exchange, usage as uncontrolled communication channel, risk associated with the service due to its old age, etc.

contains 4 rules

Uninstall the telnet serverrule

The telnet daemon should be uninstalled.

Rationale:

telnet allows clear text communications, and does not protect any data transmission between client and server. Any confidential data can be listened and no integrity checking is made.'

references:  SR 1.1, SR 1.10, SR 1.11, SR 1.12, SR 1.13, SR 1.2, SR 1.3, SR 1.4, SR 1.5, SR 1.6, SR 1.7, SR 1.8, SR 1.9, SR 2.1, SR 2.2, SR 2.3, SR 2.4, SR 2.5, SR 2.6, SR 2.7, SR 3.1, SR 3.5, SR 3.8, SR 4.1, SR 4.3, SR 5.1, SR 5.2, SR 5.3, SR 7.1, SR 7.6, 4.3.3.5.1, 4.3.3.5.2, 4.3.3.5.3, 4.3.3.5.4, 4.3.3.5.5, 4.3.3.5.6, 4.3.3.5.7, 4.3.3.5.8, 4.3.3.6.1, 4.3.3.6.2, 4.3.3.6.3, 4.3.3.6.4, 4.3.3.6.5, 4.3.3.6.6, 4.3.3.6.7, 4.3.3.6.8, 4.3.3.6.9, 4.3.3.7.1, 4.3.3.7.2, 4.3.3.7.3, 4.3.3.7.4, 4.3.4.3.2, 4.3.4.3.3, APO13.01, BAI10.01, BAI10.02, BAI10.03, BAI10.05, DSS01.04, DSS05.02, DSS05.03, DSS05.05, DSS06.06, BP28(R1), NT007(R03), CM-7(a), CM-7(b), CM-6(a), PR.AC-3, PR.IP-1, PR.PT-3, PR.PT-4, 11, 12, 14, 15, 3, 8, 9, A.11.2.6, A.12.1.2, A.12.5.1, A.12.6.2, A.13.1.1, A.13.2.1, A.14.1.3, A.14.2.2, A.14.2.3, A.14.2.4, A.6.2.1, A.6.2.2, A.9.1.2

Remediation script:
include remove_telnetd

class remove_telnetd {
  package { 'telnetd':
    ensure => 'purged',
  }
}
Remediation script:

# CAUTION: This remediation script will remove telnetd
#	   from the system, and may remove any packages
#	   that depend on telnetd. Execute this
#	   remediation AFTER testing on a non-production
#	   system!

DEBIAN_FRONTEND=noninteractive apt-get remove -y "telnetd"
Remediation script:
- name: Ensure telnetd is removed
  package:
    name: telnetd
    state: absent
  tags:
  - NIST-800-53-CM-6(a)
  - NIST-800-53-CM-7(a)
  - NIST-800-53-CM-7(b)
  - disable_strategy
  - high_severity
  - low_complexity
  - low_disruption
  - no_reboot_needed
  - package_telnetd_removed

Uninstall the nis packagerule

The support for Yellowpages should not be installed unless it is required.

Rationale:

NIS is the historical SUN service for central account management, more and more replaced by LDAP. NIS does not support efficiently security constraints, ACL, etc. and should not be used.

Remediation script:
include remove_nis

class remove_nis {
  package { 'nis':
    ensure => 'purged',
  }
}
Remediation script:

# CAUTION: This remediation script will remove nis
#	   from the system, and may remove any packages
#	   that depend on nis. Execute this
#	   remediation AFTER testing on a non-production
#	   system!

DEBIAN_FRONTEND=noninteractive apt-get remove -y "nis"
Remediation script:
- name: Ensure nis is removed
  package:
    name: nis
    state: absent
  tags:
  - disable_strategy
  - low_complexity
  - low_disruption
  - low_severity
  - no_reboot_needed
  - package_nis_removed

Uninstall the inet-based telnet serverrule

The inet-based telnet daemon should be uninstalled.

Rationale:

telnet allows clear text communications, and does not protect any data transmission between client and server. Any confidential data can be listened and no integrity checking is made.

references:  SR 1.1, SR 1.10, SR 1.11, SR 1.12, SR 1.13, SR 1.2, SR 1.3, SR 1.4, SR 1.5, SR 1.6, SR 1.7, SR 1.8, SR 1.9, SR 2.1, SR 2.2, SR 2.3, SR 2.4, SR 2.5, SR 2.6, SR 2.7, SR 3.1, SR 3.5, SR 3.8, SR 4.1, SR 4.3, SR 5.1, SR 5.2, SR 5.3, SR 7.1, SR 7.6, 4.3.3.5.1, 4.3.3.5.2, 4.3.3.5.3, 4.3.3.5.4, 4.3.3.5.5, 4.3.3.5.6, 4.3.3.5.7, 4.3.3.5.8, 4.3.3.6.1, 4.3.3.6.2, 4.3.3.6.3, 4.3.3.6.4, 4.3.3.6.5, 4.3.3.6.6, 4.3.3.6.7, 4.3.3.6.8, 4.3.3.6.9, 4.3.3.7.1, 4.3.3.7.2, 4.3.3.7.3, 4.3.3.7.4, 4.3.4.3.2, 4.3.4.3.3, APO13.01, BAI10.01, BAI10.02, BAI10.03, BAI10.05, DSS01.04, DSS05.02, DSS05.03, DSS05.05, DSS06.06, NT007(R03), CM-7(a), CM-7(b), CM-6(a), PR.AC-3, PR.IP-1, PR.PT-3, PR.PT-4, 11, 12, 14, 15, 3, 8, 9, A.11.2.6, A.12.1.2, A.12.5.1, A.12.6.2, A.13.1.1, A.13.2.1, A.14.1.3, A.14.2.2, A.14.2.3, A.14.2.4, A.6.2.1, A.6.2.2, A.9.1.2

Remediation script:
include remove_inetutils-telnetd

class remove_inetutils-telnetd {
  package { 'inetutils-telnetd':
    ensure => 'purged',
  }
}
Remediation script:

# CAUTION: This remediation script will remove inetutils-telnetd
#	   from the system, and may remove any packages
#	   that depend on inetutils-telnetd. Execute this
#	   remediation AFTER testing on a non-production
#	   system!

DEBIAN_FRONTEND=noninteractive apt-get remove -y "inetutils-telnetd"
Remediation script:
- name: Ensure inetutils-telnetd is removed
  package:
    name: inetutils-telnetd
    state: absent
  tags:
  - NIST-800-53-CM-6(a)
  - NIST-800-53-CM-7(a)
  - NIST-800-53-CM-7(b)
  - disable_strategy
  - high_severity
  - low_complexity
  - low_disruption
  - no_reboot_needed
  - package_inetutils-telnetd_removed

Uninstall the ssl compliant telnet serverrule

The telnet daemon, even with ssl support, should be uninstalled.

Rationale:

telnet, even with ssl support, should not be installed. When remote shell is required, up-to-date ssh daemon can be used.

references:  SR 1.1, SR 1.10, SR 1.11, SR 1.12, SR 1.13, SR 1.2, SR 1.3, SR 1.4, SR 1.5, SR 1.6, SR 1.7, SR 1.8, SR 1.9, SR 2.1, SR 2.2, SR 2.3, SR 2.4, SR 2.5, SR 2.6, SR 2.7, SR 3.1, SR 3.5, SR 3.8, SR 4.1, SR 4.3, SR 5.1, SR 5.2, SR 5.3, SR 7.1, SR 7.6, 4.3.3.5.1, 4.3.3.5.2, 4.3.3.5.3, 4.3.3.5.4, 4.3.3.5.5, 4.3.3.5.6, 4.3.3.5.7, 4.3.3.5.8, 4.3.3.6.1, 4.3.3.6.2, 4.3.3.6.3, 4.3.3.6.4, 4.3.3.6.5, 4.3.3.6.6, 4.3.3.6.7, 4.3.3.6.8, 4.3.3.6.9, 4.3.3.7.1, 4.3.3.7.2, 4.3.3.7.3, 4.3.3.7.4, 4.3.4.3.2, 4.3.4.3.3, APO13.01, BAI10.01, BAI10.02, BAI10.03, BAI10.05, DSS01.04, DSS05.02, DSS05.03, DSS05.05, DSS06.06, NT007(R02), CM-7(a), CM-7(b), CM-6(a), PR.AC-3, PR.IP-1, PR.PT-3, PR.PT-4, 11, 12, 14, 15, 3, 8, 9, A.11.2.6, A.12.1.2, A.12.5.1, A.12.6.2, A.13.1.1, A.13.2.1, A.14.1.3, A.14.2.2, A.14.2.3, A.14.2.4, A.6.2.1, A.6.2.2, A.9.1.2

Remediation script:
include remove_telnetd-ssl

class remove_telnetd-ssl {
  package { 'telnetd-ssl':
    ensure => 'purged',
  }
}
Remediation script:

# CAUTION: This remediation script will remove telnetd-ssl
#	   from the system, and may remove any packages
#	   that depend on telnetd-ssl. Execute this
#	   remediation AFTER testing on a non-production
#	   system!

DEBIAN_FRONTEND=noninteractive apt-get remove -y "telnetd-ssl"
Remediation script:
- name: Ensure telnetd-ssl is removed
  package:
    name: telnetd-ssl
    state: absent
  tags:
  - NIST-800-53-CM-6(a)
  - NIST-800-53-CM-7(a)
  - NIST-800-53-CM-7(b)
  - disable_strategy
  - high_severity
  - low_complexity
  - low_disruption
  - no_reboot_needed
  - package_telnetd-ssl_removed
Red Hat and Red Hat Enterprise Linux are either registered trademarks or trademarks of Red Hat, Inc. in the United States and other countries. All other names are registered trademarks or trademarks of their respective companies.