# Cis Ubuntu1604 V200 5 3 1

> Ensure permissions on /etc/ssh/sshd_config are configured

- Skill: `cyberstrikeus/cis-ubuntu1604-v200-5-3-1` (Agent Skill)
- Install (CLI): `npx skillmds@latest add cyberstrikeus/cis-ubuntu1604-v200-5-3-1`
- Raw SKILL.md: https://api.skillmd.com/api/skills/cyberstrikeus/cis-ubuntu1604-v200-5-3-1/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-ubuntu1604-v200-5-3-1

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# CIS Ubuntu Linux 16.04 LTS Benchmark v2.0.0 - Control 5.3.1

## Description

The `/etc/ssh/sshd_config` file contains configuration specifications for sshd. The command below sets the owner and group of the file to root.

## Rationale

The `/etc/ssh/sshd_config` file needs to be protected from unauthorized changes by non-privileged users.

## Audit Procedure

### Command Line

Run the following command and verify `Uid` and `Gid` are both `0/root` and `Access` does not grant permissions to `group` or `other`:

```bash
stat /etc/ssh/sshd_config
```

### Expected Result

```
Access: (0600/-rw-------)  Uid: (    0/    root)  Gid: (    0/    root)
```

## Remediation

### Command Line

Run the following commands to set ownership and permissions on `/etc/ssh/sshd_config`:

```bash
chown root:root /etc/ssh/sshd_config
chmod og-rwx /etc/ssh/sshd_config
```

## Default Value

Access: (0600/-rw-------) Uid: ( 0/ root) Gid: ( 0/ root)

## References

1. SSHD_CONFIG(5)

## CIS Controls

Version 7

14.6 Protect Information through Access Control Lists - Protect all information stored on systems with file system, network share, claims, application, or database specific access control lists. These controls will enforce the principle that only authorized individuals should have access to the information based on their need to access the information as a part of their responsibilities.

## Profile Applicability

- Level 1 - Server
- Level 1 - Workstation

## Assessment Status

Automated