# CIS Ubuntu 14.04 LTS - 5.2.15 Ensure SSH warning banner is configured

> Verify SSH Banner is configured to display a warning message before authentication

- Skill: `cyberstrikeus/cis-ubuntu-14-04-lts-5-2-15-ensure-ssh-warning-banner-is-con` (Agent Skill)
- Install (CLI): `npx skillmds@latest add cyberstrikeus/cis-ubuntu-14-04-lts-5-2-15-ensure-ssh-warning-banner-is-con`
- Raw SKILL.md: https://api.skillmd.com/api/skills/cyberstrikeus/cis-ubuntu-14-04-lts-5-2-15-ensure-ssh-warning-banner-is-con/raw
- Safety review: PASS (external: skill-scanner PASS, skillspector PASS)
- Works with: Claude Code, Claude.ai, OpenAI Codex
- Category: Coding & Dev Tools
- Author: cyberstrikeus (https://skillmd.com/u/cyberstrikeus)
- Updated: 2026-09-17
- Page: https://skillmd.com/skills/cyberstrikeus/cis-ubuntu-14-04-lts-5-2-15-ensure-ssh-warning-banner-is-con

---


# 5.2.15 Ensure SSH warning banner is configured (Scored)

## Profile Applicability

- Level 1 - Server
- Level 1 - Workstation

## Description

The `Banner` parameter specifies a file whose contents must be sent to the remote user before authentication is permitted. By default, no banner is displayed.

## Rationale

Banners are used to warn connecting users of the particular site's policy regarding connection. Presenting a warning message prior to the normal user login may assist the prosecution of trespassers on the computer system.

## Audit Procedure

Run the following command and verify that output matches:

```bash
grep "^Banner" /etc/ssh/sshd_config
```

## Expected Result

```
Banner /etc/issue.net
```

## Remediation

Edit the `/etc/ssh/sshd_config` file to set the parameter as follows:

```
Banner /etc/issue.net
```

## Default Value

Banner none

## References

- CIS Controls: 16 - Account Monitoring and Control

## Profile

- Level 1 - Server
- Level 1 - Workstation