| name | AC-3(12)_assert-and-enforce-application-access |
| description | Require applications to assert, as part of the installation process, the access needed to the following system applications and functions: [organiz... |
| category | authorization |
| version | 5.2.0 |
| author | cyberstrike-official |
| tags | ["nist","sp800-53","rev5","ac-3-12","ac","enhancement"] |
| tech_stack | ["aws","azure","gcp","linux","windows"] |
| cwe_ids | ["CWE-284"] |
| chains_with | ["CM-7"] |
| prerequisites | ["AC-3"] |
| severity_boost | {"CM-7":"Chain with CM-7 for comprehensive security coverage"} |
AC-3(12) Assert and Enforce Application Access
Enhancement of: AC-3
High-Level Description
Family: Access Control (AC)
Framework: NIST SP 800-53 Rev 5
Asserting and enforcing application access is intended to address applications that need to access existing system applications and functions, including user contacts, global positioning systems, cameras, keyboards, microphones, networks, phones, or other files.
What to Check
How to Test
Step 1: Review Documentation
Examine the System Security Plan (SSP) and related artifacts for AC-3(12) 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 IAM policies and access controls | cloud_audit_iam_policies |
| hackbrowser-mcp | Test web application access controls | browser_auth_test |
Remediation Guide
Control Statement
Require applications to assert, as part of the installation process, the access needed to the following system applications and functions: [organization-defined];
Provide an enforcement mechanism to prevent unauthorized access; and
Approve access changes after initial installation of the application.
Implementation Guidance
