# Cis Ubuntu1804 V220 2 2 8

> Ensure FTP Server is not installed

- Skill: `cyberstrikeus/cis-ubuntu1804-v220-2-2-8` (Agent Skill)
- Install (CLI): `npx skillmds@latest add cyberstrikeus/cis-ubuntu1804-v220-2-2-8`
- Raw SKILL.md: https://api.skillmd.com/api/skills/cyberstrikeus/cis-ubuntu1804-v220-2-2-8/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-ubuntu1804-v220-2-2-8

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# 2.2.8 Ensure FTP Server is not installed (Automated)

## Profile

- Level 1 - Server
- Level 1 - Workstation

## Description

The File Transfer Protocol (FTP) provides networked computers with the ability to transfer files.

## Rationale

FTP does not protect the confidentiality of data or authentication credentials. It is recommended SFTP be used if file transfer is required. Unless there is a need to run the system as a FTP server (for example, to allow anonymous downloads), it is recommended that the package be deleted to reduce the potential attack surface.

## Audit Procedure

### Command Line

Run the following command to verify `vsftpd` is not installed:

```bash
# dpkg-query -s vsftpd &>/dev/null && echo "vsftpd is installed"
```

Nothing should be returned.

## Expected Result

No output (empty result).

## Remediation

### Command Line

Run the following command to remove `vsftpd`:

```bash
# apt purge vsftpd
```

## References

1. NIST SP 800-53 Rev. 5: CM-7

Additional Information:

Additional FTP servers also exist and should be audited.

## CIS Controls

- v8: 4.8 - Uninstall or Disable Unnecessary Services on Enterprise Assets and Software
- v7: 9.2 - Ensure Only Approved Ports, Protocols and Services Are Running