The /etc/shadow (or equivalent) file must be owned by root.

From HP-UX 11.31 Security Technical Implementation Guide

Associated with IA controls: ECLP-1

Associated with: CCI-000225

SV-38468r1_rule The /etc/shadow (or equivalent) file must be owned by root.

Vulnerability discussion

The /etc/shadow file contains the list of local system accounts. It is vital to system security and must be protected from unauthorized modification. Failure to give ownership of sensitive files or utilities to root or bin provides the designated owner and unauthorized users with the potential to access sensitive information or change the system configuration which could weaken the system's security posture.

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Trusted Mode is currently a requirement. As such, the shadow file should not exist.

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