Windows PowerShell 2.0 must not be installed on Windows 2012/2012 R2.

From Windows Server 2012/2012 R2 Domain Controller Security Technical Implementation Guide

Associated with: CCI-000381

SV-95185r1_rule Windows PowerShell 2.0 must not be installed on Windows 2012/2012 R2.

Vulnerability discussion

Windows PowerShell versions 4.0 (with a patch) and 5.x add advanced logging features that can provide additional detail when malware has been run on a system. Ensuring Windows PowerShell 2.0 is not installed as well mitigates against a downgrade attack that evades the advanced logging features of later Windows PowerShell versions.

Check content

Windows PowerShell 2.0 is not installed by default. Open "Windows PowerShell". Enter "Get-WindowsFeature -Name PowerShell-v2". If "Installed State" is "Installed", this is a finding. An Installed State of "Available" or "Removed" is not a finding.

Fix text

Windows PowerShell 2.0 is not installed by default. Uninstall it if it has been installed. Open "Windows PowerShell". Enter "Uninstall-WindowsFeature -Name PowerShell-v2". Alternately: Use the "Remove Roles and Features Wizard" and deselect "Windows PowerShell 2.0 Engine" under "Windows PowerShell".

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