cyberstrikeus 2.3.5 Ensure LDAP client is not installed (Scored)
Profile Applicability
- Level 1 - Server
- Level 1 - Workstation
Description
The Lightweight Directory Access Protocol (LDAP) was introduced as a replacement for NIS/YP. It is a service that provides a method for looking up information from a central database.
Rationale
If the system will not need to act as an LDAP client, it is recommended that the software be removed to reduce the potential attack surface.
Audit Procedure
Run the following command and verify ldap-utils is not installed:
dpkg -s ldap-utils
Expected Result
The command should indicate that the package is not installed (e.g., dpkg-query: package 'ldap-utils' is not installed).
Remediation
Uninstall ldap-utils using the appropriate package manager or manual installation:
apt-get remove ldap-utils
Default Value
ldap-utils is not installed by default.
Impact
Removing the LDAP client will prevent or inhibit using LDAP for authentication in your environment.
References
- CIS Controls: 2 Inventory of Authorized and Unauthorized Software
Profile
- Level 1 - Server
- Level 1 - Workstation