Cis Gworkspace 4.1.1.3

4.1.1.3 Ensure 2-Step Verification (MFA) is enforced for all users

Profile Applicability

• Enterprise Level 1

Description

Enforce 2-Step Verification (Multi-Factor Authentication) for all users.

Rationale

Add an extra layer of security to users accounts by asking users to verify their identity when they enter a username and password. 2-Step Verification (Multi-factor authentication) requires an individual to present a minimum of two separate forms of authentication before access is granted. 2-Step Verification provides additional assurance that the individual attempting to gain access is who they claim to be. With 2-Step Verification, an attacker would need to compromise at least two different authentication mechanisms, increasing the difficulty of compromise and thus reducing the risk.

Impact

Implementation of 2-Step Verification (multi-factor authentication) for all users will necessitate a change to user routine. All users will be required to enroll in 2-Step Verification using phone, SMS, or an authentication application. After enrollment, use of 2-Step Verification will be required for future access to the environment.

Audit

To verify this setting via the Google Workspace Admin Console:

1. Log in to https://admin.google.com as an administrator
2. Select Security
3. Select 2-Step Verification
4. Under Authentication, ensure Allow users to turn on 2-Step Verification is checked
5. Ensure Enforcement is set to On
6. Ensure New user enrollment period is set to 2 weeks
7. Under Frequency, ensure Allow user to trust device is not checked
8. Under Methods, ensure Any except verification codes via text, phone call is selected

Remediation

To configure this setting via the Google Workspace Admin Console:

1. Log in to https://admin.google.com as an administrator
2. Select Security
3. Select 2-Step Verification
4. Under Authentication, check Allow users to turn on 2-Step Verification
5. Set Enforcement to On
6. Set New user enrollment period to 2 weeks
7. Under Frequency, uncheck Allow user to trust device
8. Under Methods, select Any except verification codes via text, phone call
9. Select Save

Default Value

• Allow users to turn on 2-Step Verification is checked
• Enforcement is Off
• New user enrollment period is None
• Frequency - Allow user to trust device is checked
• Methods is Any

CIS Controls