WDigest Authentication must be disabled.

From Windows Server 2008 R2 Member Server Security Technical Implementation Guide

Associated with: CCI-000381

SV-87389r1_rule WDigest Authentication must be disabled.

Vulnerability discussion

When the WDigest Authentication protocol is enabled, plain text passwords are stored in the Local Security Authority Subsystem Service (LSASS) exposing them to theft. This setting will prevent WDigest from storing credentials in memory.

Check content

If the following registry value does not exist or is not configured as specified, this is a finding. Registry Hive: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE Registry Path: \SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\SecurityProviders\Wdigest\ Value Name: UseLogonCredential Type: REG_DWORD Value: 0x00000000 (0) Note: Microsoft Security Advisory update 2871997 is required for this setting to be effective on Windows 2008 R2.

Fix text

Configure the policy value for Computer Configuration >> Administrative Templates >> MS Security Guide >> "WDigest Authentication (disabling may require KB2871997)" to "Disabled". Note: Microsoft Security Advisory update 2871997 is required for this setting to be effective on Windows 2008 R2. This policy setting requires the installation of the SecGuide custom templates included with the STIG package. "SecGuide.admx" and "SecGuide.adml" must be copied to the \Windows\PolicyDefinitions and \Windows\PolicyDefinitions\en-US directories respectively.

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