cis-ubuntu2004-v300-2-1-13

name	cis-ubuntu2004-v300-2-1-13
description	Ensure rsync 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	2.1.13
cis_benchmark	CIS Ubuntu Linux 20.04 LTS Benchmark v3.0.0
tech_stack	["ubuntu","linux"]
cwe_ids	[]
chains_with	[]
prerequisites	[]
severity_boost	{}

2.1.13 Ensure rsync services are not in use (Automated)

Profile

• Level 1 - Server
• Level 1 - Workstation

Description

The rsync service can be used to synchronize files between systems over network links.

Rationale

The rsync service presents a security risk as it uses unencrypted protocols for communication. Unless there is a need to run rsync as a daemon, it is recommended that the rsync service be disabled to reduce the remote attack surface.

Audit Procedure

Command Line

Run the following command to verify rsync is not installed:

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

If installed, run:

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

Verify the service is not enabled and not active.

Expected Result

rsync should not be installed as a service, or if installed, the service should be stopped and masked.

Remediation

Command Line

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

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

Default Value

rsync may be installed but the daemon is not enabled 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: T1105, T1203, T1210, T1543, T1543.002, T1570 | TA0008 | M1042