cyberstrikeus IA-7 Cryptographic Module Authentication
High-Level Description
Family: Identification and Authentication (IA) Framework: NIST SP 800-53 Rev 5
Authentication mechanisms may be required within a cryptographic module to authenticate an operator accessing the module and to verify that the operator is authorized to assume the requested role and perform services within that role.
What to Check
- Verify IA-7 Cryptographic Module Authentication is documented in SSP
- Confirm control is operating effectively
- Review evidence of continuous monitoring for IA-7
How to Test
Step 1: Review Documentation
Examine the System Security Plan (SSP) and related artifacts for IA-7 implementation details. Verify the organization has documented how this control is satisfied.
Step 2: Validate Implementation
# For cloud environments, use cloud-audit-mcp tools
# For on-premises, review system configurations directly
# Example: Check if account management policies exist
grep -r "account.management\|access.control" /etc/security/ 2>/dev/null
Step 3: Test Operating Effectiveness
Verify the control is actively functioning, not just documented. Check logs, configurations, and operational evidence.
Tools
| Tool | Purpose | Usage |
|---|---|---|
| cloud-audit-mcp | Check authentication settings | cloud_audit_iam_policies |
| hackbrowser | Test authentication mechanisms | hackbrowser |
Remediation Guide
Control Statement
Implement mechanisms for authentication to a cryptographic module that meet the requirements of applicable laws, executive orders, directives, policies, regulations, standards, and guidelines for such authentication.
Implementation Guidance
Authentication mechanisms may be required within a cryptographic module to authenticate an operator accessing the module and to verify that the operator is authorized to assume the requested role and perform services within that role.
Risk Assessment
| Finding | Severity | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| IA-7 Cryptographic Module Authentication not implemented | High | Identification and Authentication |
| IA-7 partially implemented | Medium | Incomplete Identification and Authentication |
CWE Categories
| CWE ID | Title |
|---|---|
| CWE-287 | Improper Authentication |
References
- NIST SP 800-53 Rev 5 - IA-7
- NIST SP 800-53A Rev 5 (Assessment Procedures)
- NIST SP 800-53 Rev 5 Full Catalog
Checklist
- Control documented in SSP
- Implementation evidence collected
- Operating effectiveness validated
- Continuous monitoring in place
- Related controls (AC-3, IA-5, SA-4, SC-12, SC-13) reviewed