# Cis GCP Cos 6.2.2

> Ensure no legacy "+" entries exist in /etc/passwd

- Skill: `cyberstrikeus/cis-gcp-cos-6-2-2` (Agent Skill)
- Install (CLI): `npx skillmds@latest add cyberstrikeus/cis-gcp-cos-6-2-2`
- Raw SKILL.md: https://api.skillmd.com/api/skills/cyberstrikeus/cis-gcp-cos-6-2-2/raw
- Safety review: PASS (external: skill-scanner PASS, skillspector CAUTION)
- Works with: Claude Code, Claude.ai, OpenAI Codex
- Category: DevOps & Infra
- Author: cyberstrikeus (https://skillmd.com/u/cyberstrikeus)
- Updated: 2026-09-17
- Page: https://skillmd.com/skills/cyberstrikeus/cis-gcp-cos-6-2-2

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# 6.2.2 Ensure no legacy "+" entries exist in /etc/passwd (Automated)

## Description

The character + in various files used to be markers for systems to insert data from NIS maps at a certain point in a system configuration file. These entries are no longer required on most systems, but may exist in files that have been imported from other platforms.

## Rationale

These entries may provide an avenue for attackers to gain privileged access on the system.

## Audit Procedure

Run the following command and verify that no output is returned:

```bash
# grep '^\+:' /etc/passwd
```

## Expected Result

No output should be returned.

## Remediation

Remove any legacy '+' entries from `/etc/passwd` if they exist.

## CIS Controls

| Controls Version | Control                                            | IG 1 | IG 2 | IG 3 |
| ---------------- | -------------------------------------------------- | ---- | ---- | ---- |
| v8               | 5.6 Centralize Account Management                  |      | x    | x    |
| v7               | 16.2 Configure Centralized Point of Authentication |      | x    | x    |

## Profile

- Level 1 - Server