The system must prevent the root account from logging in from virtual consoles.

From Oracle Linux 6 Security Technical Implementation Guide

Associated with: CCI-000770

SV-64927r1_rule The system must prevent the root account from logging in from virtual consoles.

Vulnerability discussion

Preventing direct root login to virtual console devices helps ensure accountability for actions taken on the system using the root account.

Check content

To check for virtual console entries which permit root login, run the following command: # grep '^vc/[0-9]' /etc/securetty If any output is returned, then root logins over virtual console devices is permitted. If root login over virtual console devices is permitted, this is a finding.

Fix text

To restrict root logins through the (deprecated) virtual console devices, ensure lines of this form do not appear in "/etc/securetty": vc/1 vc/2 vc/3 vc/4 Note: Virtual console entries are not limited to those listed above. Any lines starting with "vc/" followed by numerals should be removed.

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.