Device metadata retrieval from the Internet must be prevented.

From Windows 8/8.1 Security Technical Implementation Guide

Part of Prevent device metadata retrieval from Internet

Associated with: CCI-000381

SV-48449r3_rule Device metadata retrieval from the Internet must be prevented.

Vulnerability discussion

Some features may communicate with the vendor, sending system information or downloading data or components for the feature. Turning off this capability will prevent potentially sensitive information from being sent outside the enterprise and uncontrolled updates to the system. This setting will prevent Windows from retrieving device metadata from the Internet.

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: \SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft\Windows\Device Metadata\ Value Name: PreventDeviceMetadataFromNetwork Type: REG_DWORD Value: 1

Fix text

Configure the policy value for Computer Configuration >> Administrative Templates >> System >> Device Installation >> "Prevent device metadata retrieval from the Internet" to "Enabled".

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