cyberstrikeus 5.2.8 Ensure SSH root login is disabled (Scored)
Profile Applicability
- Level 1 - Server
- Level 1 - Workstation
Description
The PermitRootLogin parameter specifies if the root user can log in using ssh(1). The default is no.
Rationale
Disallowing root logins over SSH requires system admins to authenticate using their own individual account, then escalating to root via sudo or su. This in turn limits opportunity for non-repudiation and provides a clear audit trail in the event of a security incident.
Audit Procedure
Run the following command and verify that output matches:
grep "^PermitRootLogin" /etc/ssh/sshd_config
Expected Result
PermitRootLogin no
Remediation
Edit the /etc/ssh/sshd_config file to set the parameter as follows:
PermitRootLogin no
Default Value
PermitRootLogin no
References
- CIS Controls: 5.8 - Administrators Should Not Directly Log In To A System (i.e. use RunAs/sudo)
Profile
- Level 1 - Server
- Level 1 - Workstation