Device files used for backup must only be readable and/or writable by root or the backup user.

From Oracle Linux 5 Security Technical Implementation Guide

Associated with: CCI-000225

SV-63241r1_rule Device files used for backup must only be readable and/or writable by root or the backup user.

Vulnerability discussion

System backups could be accidentally or maliciously overwritten and destroy the ability to recover the system if a compromise should occur. Unauthorized users could also copy system files.

Check content

Check the system for world-writable device files. Procedure: # find / -perm -2 -a \( -type b -o -type c \) -exec ls -ld {} \; Ask the SA to identify any device files used for backup purposes. If any device file(s) used for backup are writable by users other than root or the designated backup user, this is a finding.

Fix text

Use the chmod command to remove the world-writable bit from the backup device files. Procedure: # chmod o-w Document all changes.

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