The SSH daemon must not accept environment variables from the client or must only accept those pertaining to locale.

From VMware ESXi Server 5.0 Security Technical Implementation Guide

Associated with: CCI-000366

SV-51082r2_rule The SSH daemon must not accept environment variables from the client or must only accept those pertaining to locale.

Vulnerability discussion

Environment variables can be used to change the behavior of remote sessions and should be limited. Locale environment variables that specify the language, character set, and other features modifying the operation of software to match the user's preferences.

Check content

Disable lock down mode. Enable the ESXi Shell. Execute the following command(s): # grep AcceptEnv /etc/ssh/sshd_config If the "AcceptEnv" attribute is not set to "LOCALE" or unassigned (the "AcceptEnv" attribute minus any parameter assignment), this is a finding. Re-enable lock down mode.

Fix text

Disable lock down mode. Enable the ESXi Shell. Execute the following command(s): # vi /etc/ssh/sshd_config Add/modify the attribute line entry to the following (quotes for emphasis only): "AcceptEnv LOCALE" or "AcceptEnv" Re-enable lock down mode.

Pro Tips

Lavender hyperlinks in small type off to the right (of CSS class id, if you view the page source) point to globally unique URIs for each document and item. Copy the link location and paste anywhere you need to talk unambiguously about these things.

You can obtain data about documents and items in other formats. Simply provide an HTTP header Accept: text/turtle or Accept: application/rdf+xml.