Cis Apache24 2.4

2.4 Ensure the Status Module Is Disabled (Automated)

Profile Applicability

• Level 1

Description

The Apache mod_status module provides current server performance statistics.

Rationale

When mod_status is loaded into the server, its handler capability is available in all configuration files, including per-directory files (e.g., .htaccess). The mod_status module may provide an adversary with information that can be used to refine exploits that depend on measuring server load.

Audit

Perform the following to determine if the Status module is enabled.

Run the httpd server with the -M option to list enabled modules:

# httpd -M | egrep 'status_module'

Note: If the modules are correctly disabled, there will be no output when executing the above command.

Remediation

Perform either one of the following to disable the mod_status module:

1. For source builds with static modules, run the Apache ./configure script with the --disable-status configure script options.
   • $ cd $DOWNLOAD_HTTPD
   • $ ./configure --disable-status
2. For dynamically loaded modules, comment out or remove the LoadModule directive for the mod_status module from the httpd.conf file.
   • ##LoadModule status_module modules/mod_status.so

Default Value

The mod_status module IS enabled with a default source build.

References

1. https://httpd.apache.org/docs/2.4/mod/mod_status.html

CIS Controls

• v8: 4.8 Uninstall or Disable Unnecessary Services on Enterprise Assets and Software
• v7: 9.2 Ensure Only Approved Ports, Protocols and Services Are Running

Profile

• Level 1