The system must use a FIPS 140-2 approved cryptographic hashing algorithm for generating account password hashes (libuser.conf).

From Red Hat Enterprise Linux 6 Security Technical Implementation Guide

Associated with: CCI-000803

SV-50378r1_rule The system must use a FIPS 140-2 approved cryptographic hashing algorithm for generating account password hashes (libuser.conf).

Vulnerability discussion

Using a stronger hashing algorithm makes password cracking attacks more difficult.

Check content

Inspect "/etc/libuser.conf" and ensure the following line appears in the "[default]" section: crypt_style = sha512 If it does not, this is a finding.

Fix text

In "/etc/libuser.conf", add or correct the following line in its "[defaults]" section to ensure the system will use the SHA-512 algorithm for password hashing: crypt_style = sha512

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