V-288237

Discussion

Security-related issues can arise from software brought into the information system specifically for diagnostic and repair actions (e.g., a software packet sniffer installed on a system to troubleshoot system traffic, or a vendor installing or running a diagnostic application to troubleshoot an issue with a vendor-supported system). If maintenance tools are used by unauthorized personnel, they may accidentally or intentionally damage or compromise the system. This requirement addresses security-related issues associated with maintenance tools used specifically for diagnostic and repair actions on organizational information systems. Maintenance tools can include hardware, software, and firmware items. Maintenance tools are potential vehicles for transporting malicious code, either intentionally or unintentionally, into a facility and subsequently into organizational information systems. Maintenance tools can include, for example, hardware/software diagnostic test equipment and hardware/software packet sniffers. This requirement does not cover hardware/software components that may support information system maintenance, yet are a part of the system (e.g., the software implementing "ping," "ls," "ipconfig," or the hardware and software implementing the monitoring port of an Ethernet switch).

Check Content

If the application is not a maintenance application, this requirement is Not Applicable.

Review the maintenance application documentation and deployed configuration to determine whether performance of maintenance functions is restricted to authorized personnel only.

If the maintenance application does not restrict maintenance functions to authorized personnel only, this is a finding.