cis-ubuntu1204-v110-9-3-8

name	cis-ubuntu1204-v110-9-3-8
description	Disable SSH Root Login
category	cis-os-hardening
version	1.1.0
author	cyberstrike-official
tags	["cis","ubuntu",12.04,"linux","authentication","ssh","root-login"]
cis_id	9.3.8
cis_benchmark	CIS Ubuntu 12.04 LTS Server Benchmark v1.1.0
tech_stack	["ubuntu","linux"]
cwe_ids	[]
chains_with	[]
prerequisites	[]
severity_boost	{}

9.3.8 Disable SSH Root Login (Scored)

Profile Applicability

• Level 1

Description

The PermitRootLogin parameter specifies if the root user can log in using ssh(1). The default is no.

Rationale

Disallowing root logins over SSH requires server admins to authenticate using their own individual account, then escalating to root via sudo or su. This in turn limits opportunity for non-repudiation and provides a clear audit trail in the event of a security incident.

Audit Procedure

Using Command Line

To verify the correct SSH setting, run the following command and verify that the output is as shown:

grep "^PermitRootLogin" /etc/ssh/sshd_config

Expected Result

PermitRootLogin no

Remediation

Using Command Line

Edit the /etc/ssh/sshd_config file to set the parameter as follows:

PermitRootLogin no

Default Value

PermitRootLogin no

References

• CIS Ubuntu 12.04 LTS Server Benchmark v1.1.0

Profile

Level 1 - Scored