| name | IA-12(3)_identity-evidence-validation-and-verification |
| description | Require that the presented identity evidence be validated and verified through [organization-defined]. |
| category | authentication |
| version | 5.2.0 |
| author | cyberstrike-official |
| tags | ["nist","sp800-53","rev5","ia-12-3","ia","enhancement"] |
| tech_stack | ["aws","azure","active-directory","linux","windows"] |
| cwe_ids | ["CWE-287"] |
| chains_with | [] |
| prerequisites | ["IA-12"] |
| severity_boost | {} |
IA-12(3) Identity Evidence Validation and Verification
Enhancement of: IA-12
High-Level Description
Family: Identification and Authentication (IA)
Framework: NIST SP 800-53 Rev 5
Validation and verification of identity evidence increases the assurance that accounts and identifiers are being established for the correct user and authenticators are being bound to that user. Validation refers to the process of confirming that the evidence is genuine and authentic, and the data contained in the evidence is correct, current, and related to an individual. Verification confirms and establishes a linkage between the claimed identity and the actual existence of the user presenting the evidence. Acceptable methods for validating and verifying identity evidence are consistent with the risks to the systems, roles, and privileges associated with the users account.
What to Check
How to Test
Step 1: Review Documentation
Examine the System Security Plan (SSP) and related artifacts for IA-12(3) 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-mcp | Test authentication mechanisms | browser_auth_test |
Remediation Guide
Control Statement
Require that the presented identity evidence be validated and verified through [organization-defined].
