| name | MA-3(6)_software-updates-and-patches |
| description | Inspect maintenance tools to ensure the latest software updates and patches are installed. |
| category | configuration |
| version | 5.2.0 |
| author | cyberstrike-official |
| tags | ["nist","sp800-53","rev5","ma-3-6","ma","enhancement"] |
| tech_stack | ["linux","windows"] |
| cwe_ids | [] |
| chains_with | ["AC-3","AC-6"] |
| prerequisites | ["MA-3"] |
| severity_boost | {"AC-3":"Chain with AC-3 for comprehensive security coverage","AC-6":"Chain with AC-6 for comprehensive security coverage"} |
MA-3(6) Software Updates and Patches
Enhancement of: MA-3
High-Level Description
Family: Maintenance (MA)
Framework: NIST SP 800-53 Rev 5
Maintenance tools using outdated and/or unpatched software can provide a threat vector for adversaries and result in a significant vulnerability for organizations.
What to Check
How to Test
Step 1: Review Documentation
Examine the System Security Plan (SSP) and related artifacts for MA-3(6) 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 |
|---|
| Manual Review | Documentation and interview-based | N/A |
Remediation Guide
Control Statement
Inspect maintenance tools to ensure the latest software updates and patches are installed.
Implementation Guidance
Maintenance tools using outdated and/or unpatched software can provide a threat vector for adversaries and result in a significant vulnerability for organizations.
Risk Assessment
| Finding | Severity | Impact |
|---|
| MA-3(6) Software Updates and Patches not implemented | Medium | Maintenance |
| MA-3(6) partially implemented | Low | Incomplete Maintenance |
