Monitoring software must include CGI or equivalent programs in its scope.

From APACHE 2.2 Server for Windows Security Technical Implementation Guide

Part of WG440

SV-33089r2_rule Monitoring software must include CGI or equivalent programs in its scope.

Vulnerability discussion

By their very nature, CGI type files permit the anonymous web user to interact with data and perhaps store data on the web server. In many cases, CGI scripts exercise system-level control over the server’s resources. These files make appealing targets for the malicious user. If these files can be modified or exploited, the web server can be compromised. These files must be monitored by a security tool that reports unauthorized changes to these files.

Check content

CGI or equivalent files must be monitored by a security tool that reports unauthorized changes. It is the purpose of such software to monitor key files for unauthorized changes to them. The reviewer should query the ISSO, the SA, and the web administrator and verify the information provided by asking to see the template file or configuration file of the software being used to accomplish this security task. Example file extensions for files considered to provide active content are, but not limited to: .cgi, .asp, .aspx, .class, .vb, .php, .pl, and .c. If the site does not have a process in place to monitor changes to CGI program files, this is a finding.

Fix text

Use a monitoring tool to monitor changes to the CGI or equivalent directory. This can be done with something as simple as a script or batch file that would identify a change in the file.

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.