cyberstrikeus 2.2.11 Ensure IMAP and POP3 server is not enabled (Scored)
Profile Applicability
- Level 1 - Server
- Level 1 - Workstation
Description
dovecot is an open source IMAP and POP3 server for Linux based systems.
Rationale
Unless POP3 and/or IMAP servers are to be provided by this system, it is recommended that the service be deleted to reduce the potential attack surface.
Audit Procedure
Run the following commands to verify no start conditions listed for dovecot:
initctl show-config dovecot
Verify the output shows dovecot with no start conditions.
Expected Result
The dovecot service should have no start conditions listed.
Remediation
Remove or comment out start lines in /etc/init/dovecot.conf:
#start on runlevel [2345]
Note: Several IMAP/POP3 servers exist and can use other service names. exim and cyrus-imap are example services that provide an HTTP server. These and other services should also be audited.
Default Value
dovecot is not enabled by default.
References
- CIS Controls: 9.1 Limit Open Ports, Protocols, and Services
Profile
- Level 1 - Server
- Level 1 - Workstation