SQL Server must record time stamps in audit records and application data that can be mapped to Coordinated Universal Time (UTC, formerly GMT).

From MS SQL Server 2016 Instance Security Technical Implementation Guide

Associated with: CCI-001890

SV-93939r1_rule SQL Server must record time stamps in audit records and application data that can be mapped to Coordinated Universal Time (UTC, formerly GMT).

Vulnerability discussion

If time stamps are not consistently applied and there is no common time reference, it is difficult to perform forensic analysis. Time stamps generated by SQL Server must include date and time. Time is commonly expressed in Coordinated Universal Time (UTC), a modern continuation of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT), or local time with an offset from UTC.

Check content

SQL Server audits store the timestamp in UTC time. Determine if the computer is joined to a domain. SELECT DEFAULT_DOMAIN()[DomainName] If this is not NULL, this is not a finding. If the computer is not joined to a domain, determine what the time source is. (Run the following command in an elevated PowerShell session.) w32tm /query /source If the results of the command return "Local CMOS Clock" and is not documented with justification and AO authorization, this is a finding. If the OS does not synchronize with a time server, review the procedure for maintaining accurate time on the system. If such a procedure does not exist, this is a finding. If the procedure exists, review evidence that the correct time is actually maintained. If the evidence indicates otherwise, this is a finding.

Fix text

Where possible, configure the operating system to automatic synchronize with an official time server, using NTP. Where there is reason not to implement automatic synchronization with an official time server, using NTP, document the reason, and the procedure for maintaining the correct time, and obtain AO approval. Enforce the procedure.

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