| name | cis-ubuntu1804-v220-2-1-3-2 |
| description | Ensure systemd-timesyncd is enabled and running |
| category | cis-networking |
| version | 2.2.0 |
| author | cyberstrike-official |
| tags | ["cis","ubuntu","linux","ubuntu-18.04","services","systemd-timesyncd"] |
| cis_id | 2.1.3.2 |
| cis_benchmark | CIS Ubuntu Linux 18.04 LTS Benchmark v2.2.0 |
| tech_stack | ["ubuntu","linux"] |
| cwe_ids | [] |
| chains_with | [] |
| prerequisites | [] |
| severity_boost | {} |
2.1.3.2 Ensure systemd-timesyncd is enabled and running (Manual)
Profile
- Level 1 - Server
- Level 1 - Workstation
Description
systemd-timesyncd is a daemon that has been added for synchronizing the system clock across the network.
Rationale
systemd-timesyncd needs to be enabled and running in order to synchronize the system to a timeserver.
Time synchronization is important to support time sensitive security mechanisms and to ensure log files have consistent time records across the enterprise to aid in forensic investigations.
Audit Procedure
Command Line
IF systemd-timesyncd is in use on the system, run the following commands:
Run the following command to verify that the systemd-timesyncd service is enabled:
enabled
Run the following command to verify that the systemd-timesyncd service is active:
active
Expected Result
systemctl is-enabled systemd-timesyncd.service returns enabled
systemctl is-active systemd-timesyncd.service returns active
Remediation
Command Line
IF systemd-timesyncd is in use on the system, run the following commands:
Run the following command to unmask systemd-timesyncd.service:
Run the following command to enable and start systemd-timesyncd.service:
OR
If another time synchronization service is in use on the system, run the following command to stop and mask systemd-timesyncd:
References
- NIST SP 800-53 Rev. 5: AU-7, AU-8
CIS Controls
- v8: 8.4 - Standardize Time Synchronization
- v7: 6.1 - Utilize Three Synchronized Time Sources