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

From Windows Server 2012/2012 R2 Member Server Security Technical Implementation Guide

SV-51753r2_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 Registry Path: \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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