File Downloads must be configured for proper restrictions.

From Microsoft Word 2016 Security Technical Implementation Guide

Associated with: CCI-001169

SV-85689r1_rule File Downloads must be configured for proper restrictions.

Vulnerability discussion

Disabling this setting allows websites to present file download prompts via code without the user specifically initiating the download. User preferences may also allow the download to occur without prompting or interaction with the user. Even if Internet Explorer prompts the user to accept the download, some websites abuse this functionality. Malicious websites may continually prompt users to download a file or present confusing dialog boxes to trick users into downloading or running a file. If the download occurs and it contains malicious code, the code could become active on user computers or the network.

Check content

Verify the policy value for Computer Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Office 2016 (Machine) -> Security Settings -> IE Security "Restrict File Download" is set to "Enabled" and 'winword.exe' is checked. Procedure: Use the Windows Registry Editor to navigate to the following key: HKLM\Software\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Main\FeatureControl\FEATURE_RESTRICT_FILEDOWNLOAD Criteria: If the value of winword.exe is REG_DWORD = 1, this is not a finding.

Fix text

Set the policy value for Computer Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Microsoft Office 2016 (Machine) -> Security Settings -> IE Security "Restrict File Download" to "Enabled" and place a check in the 'winword.exe' check box.

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