The /var/log/messages file must be group-owned by root.

From VMware vRealize Operations Manager 6.x SLES Security Technical Implementation Guide

Associated with: CCI-001314

SV-99257r1_rule The /var/log/messages file must be group-owned by root.

Vulnerability discussion

Only authorized personnel should be aware of errors and the details of the errors. Error messages are an indicator of an organization's operational state or can identify the SLES for vRealize system or platform. Additionally, Personally Identifiable Information (PII) and operational information must not be revealed through error messages to unauthorized personnel or their designated representatives.The structure and content of error messages must be carefully considered by the organization and development team. The extent to which the information system is able to identify and handle error conditions is guided by organizational policy and operational requirements.

Check content

Verify that the "/var/log/messages" file is group-owned by "root" by running the following command: # ls -la /var/log/messages | cut -d' ' -f4 The output must look like the following example: ls -la /var/log/messages | cut -d' ' -f4 root If "root" is not returned as a result, this is a finding.

Fix text

Change the group of the file "/var/log/messages" to "root" by running the following command: # chgrp root /var/log/messages

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