SQL Server must implement NIST FIPS 140-2 validated cryptographic modules to generate and validate cryptographic hashes.

From MS SQL Server 2016 Instance Security Technical Implementation Guide

Associated with: CCI-002450

SV-94013r1_rule SQL Server must implement NIST FIPS 140-2 validated cryptographic modules to generate and validate cryptographic hashes.

Vulnerability discussion

Use of weak or untested encryption algorithms undermines the purposes of utilizing encryption to protect data. The application must implement cryptographic modules adhering to the higher standards approved by the federal government since this provides assurance they have been tested and validated. For detailed information, refer to NIST FIPS Publication 140-2, Security Requirements For Cryptographic Modules. Note that the product's cryptographic modules must be validated and certified by NIST as FIPS-compliant.

Check content

Verify that Windows is configured to require the use of FIPS 140-2 algorithms. Click Start >> Type "Local Security Policy" >> Press Enter >> Expand "Local Policies" >> Select "Security Options" >> Locate "System Cryptography: Use FIPS compliant algorithms for encryption, hashing, and signing." If "System Cryptography: Use FIPS compliant algorithms for encryption, hashing, and signing" is not enabled, this is a finding.

Fix text

Configure Windows to require the use of FIPS compliant algorithms. Click Start >> Type "Local Security Policy" >> Press Enter >> Expand "Local Policies" >> Select "Security Options" >> Locate "System Cryptography: Use FIPS compliant algorithms for encryption, hashing, and signing." >> Change the Setting option to "Enabled" >> Restart Windows

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