The Windows Remote Management (WinRM) client must not allow unencrypted traffic.

From Windows 8/8.1 Security Technical Implementation Guide

Associated with IA controls: ECCT-1

SV-48350r2_rule The Windows Remote Management (WinRM) client must not allow unencrypted traffic.

Vulnerability discussion

Unencrypted remote access to a system can allow sensitive information to be compromised. Windows remote management connections must be encrypted to prevent this.

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 Subkey: \Software\Policies\Microsoft\Windows\WinRM\Client\ Value Name: AllowUnencryptedTraffic Type: REG_DWORD Value: 0

Fix text

Configure the policy value for Computer Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Windows Components -> Windows Remote Management (WinRM) -> WinRM Client -> "Allow unencrypted traffic" to "Disabled".

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