cis-ubuntu2004-v300-2-1-6

name	cis-ubuntu2004-v300-2-1-6
description	Ensure ftp server services are not in use
category	cis-networking
version	3.0.0
author	cyberstrike-official
tags	["cis","ubuntu","linux","ubuntu-20.04","services"]
cis_id	2.1.6
cis_benchmark	CIS Ubuntu Linux 20.04 LTS Benchmark v3.0.0
tech_stack	["ubuntu","linux"]
cwe_ids	[]
chains_with	[]
prerequisites	[]
severity_boost	{}

2.1.6 Ensure ftp server services are not in use (Automated)

Profile

• Level 1 - Server
• Level 1 - Workstation

Description

FTP (File Transfer Protocol) is a traditional and widely used standard tool for transferring files between a server and clients over a network, especially where no authentication is necessary (permits anonymous users to connect to a server).

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 an FTP server, it is recommended that the service be disabled to reduce the potential attack surface.

Audit Procedure

Command Line

Run the following command to verify vsftpd is not installed:

# dpkg-query -W -f='${binary:Package}\t${Status}\t${db:Status-Status}\n' vsftpd

If installed, run:

# systemctl is-enabled vsftpd.service
# systemctl is-active vsftpd.service

Verify the service is not enabled and not active.

Expected Result

vsftpd should not be installed, or if installed, the service should be stopped and masked.

Remediation

Command Line

Run the following commands to stop, mask, and purge vsftpd:

# systemctl stop vsftpd.service
# systemctl mask vsftpd.service
# apt purge vsftpd

Default Value

vsftpd is not installed by default.

References

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

CIS Controls

Controls Version	Control	IG 1	IG 2	IG 3
v8	4.8 Uninstall or Disable Unnecessary Services on Enterprise Assets and Software		x	x
v7	9.2 Ensure Only Approved Ports, Protocols and Services Are Running		x	x

MITRE ATT&CK Mappings: T1203, T1210, T1543, T1543.002 | TA0008 | M1042