| name | cis-ubuntu1804-v220-4-2-9 |
| description | Ensure sshd HostbasedAuthentication is disabled |
| category | cis-networking |
| version | 2.2.0 |
| author | cyberstrike-official |
| tags | ["cis","ubuntu","linux","ubuntu-18.04","ssh","remote-access"] |
| cis_id | 4.2.9 |
| cis_benchmark | CIS Ubuntu Linux 18.04 LTS Benchmark v2.2.0 |
| tech_stack | ["ubuntu","linux"] |
| cwe_ids | [] |
| chains_with | [] |
| prerequisites | [] |
| severity_boost | {} |
CIS Ubuntu Linux 18.04 LTS Benchmark v2.2.0 - Control 4.2.9
Profile Applicability
- Level 1 - Server
- Level 1 - Workstation
Description
The HostbasedAuthentication parameter specifies if authentication is allowed through trusted hosts via the user of .rhosts, or /etc/hosts.equiv, along with successful public key client host authentication.
Rationale
Even though .rhosts files are ineffective if support is disabled in /etc/pam.conf, disabling the ability to use .rhosts files in SSH provides an additional layer of protection.
Audit Procedure
Command Line
Run the following command and verify the output:
sshd -T | grep -i hostbasedauthentication
Expected Result
hostbasedauthentication no
Remediation
Command Line
Edit the /etc/ssh/sshd_config file to set the parameter as follows:
HostbasedAuthentication no
Default Value
HostbasedAuthentication no
References
- NIST SP 800-53 Rev. 5: CM-7
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.
Profile Applicability
- Level 1 - Server
- Level 1 - Workstation
Assessment Status
Automated