The IIS 8.5 web server Indexing must only index web content.

From IIS 8.5 Server Security Technical Implementation Guide

Associated with: CCI-001312

SV-91431r2_rule The IIS 8.5 web server Indexing must only index web content.

Vulnerability discussion

The indexing service can be used to facilitate a search function for websites. Enabling indexing may facilitate a directory traversal exploit and reveal unwanted information to a malicious user. Indexing must be limited to web document directories only.

Check content

Access the IIS 8.5 Web Server. Access an administrator command prompt and type "regedit " to access the server's registry. Navigate to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\ContentIndex\Catalogs\. If this key exists, then indexing is enabled. If the key does not exist, this check is Not Applicable. Review the Catalog keys to determine if directories other than web document directories are being indexed. If so, this is a finding.

Fix text

Run MMC. Add the Indexing Service snap-in. Edit the indexed directories to only include web document directories.

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.