This check verifies that Windows is configured to have password protection take effect within a limited time frame when the screen saver becomes active.

From Windows XP Security Technical Implementation Guide

Associated with IA controls: PESL-1

SV-4442r1_rule This check verifies that Windows is configured to have password protection take effect within a limited time frame when the screen saver becomes active.

Vulnerability discussion

Allowing more than several seconds makes the computer vulnerable to a potential attack from someone walking up to the console to attempt to log onto the system before the lock takes effect.

Check content

Fix text

Configure the policy value for Computer Configuration -> Windows Settings -> Security Settings -> Local Policies -> Security Options -> “MSS: (ScreenSaverGracePeriod) The time in seconds before the screen saver grace period expires (0 recommended)” to “5” or less.

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