cyberstrikeus 3.2 Ensure the Apache User Account Has an Invalid Shell
Profile Applicability
- Level 1
Description
The apache account must not be used as a regular login account, and should be assigned an invalid or nologin shell to ensure that the account cannot be used to login.
Rationale
Service accounts such as the apache account represent a risk if they can be used to get a login shell to the system.
Audit
Check the apache login shell in the /etc/passwd file:
# grep apache /etc/passwd
The apache account shell must be /sbin/nologin or /dev/null similar to the following:
/etc/passwd:apache:x:48:48:Apache:/var/www:/sbin/nologin
Remediation
Change the apache account to use the nologin shell or an invalid shell such as /dev/null:
# chsh -s /sbin/nologin apache
Default Value
The default Apache user account is daemon. The daemon account may have a valid login shell or a shell of /sbin/nologin depending on the operating system distribution version.
CIS Controls
| Controls Version | Control | IG 1 | IG 2 | IG 3 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| v8 | 2.6 Allowlist Authorized LibrariesUse technical controls to ensure that only authorized software libraries, such as specific .dll, .ocx, .so, etc., files, are allowed to load into a system process. Block unauthorized libraries from loading into a system process. Reassess bi-annually, or more frequently. | ● | ● | |
| v7 | 2.7 Allowlist Authorized ScriptsUse technical controls, such as digital signatures and version control, to ensure that only authorized scripts, such as specific .ps1, .py, etc., files, are allowed to execute. Block unauthorized scripts from executing. Reassess bi-annually, or more frequently. | ● | ||
| v7 | 4.3 Ensure the Use of Dedicated Administrative AccountsEnsure that all users with administrative account access use a dedicated or secondary account for elevated activities. This account should only be used for administrative activities and not internet browsing, email, or similar activities. | ● | ● | ● |
Profile
- Level 1