The system must verify the exception users list for lockdown mode.

From VMware vSphere ESXi 6.0 Security Technical Implementation Guide

Part of SRG-OS-000480-VMM-002000

Associated with: CCI-000366

SV-77665r1_rule The system must verify the exception users list for lockdown mode.

Vulnerability discussion

In vSphere 6.0 and later, you can add users to the Exception Users list from the vSphere Web Client. These users do not lose their permissions when the host enters lockdown mode. Usually you may want to add service accounts such as a backup agent to the Exception Users list. Verify that the list of users who are exempted from losing permissions is legitimate and as needed per your environment. Users who do not require special permissions should not be exempted from lockdown mode.

Check content

From the vSphere Web Client select the ESXi Host and go to Manage >> Settings >> Security Profile. Under lockdown mode review the exception users list. or From a PowerCLI command prompt while connected to the ESXi host run the following script: $vmhost = Get-VMHost | Get-View $lockdown = Get-View $vmhost.ConfigManager.HostAccessManager $lockdown.QueryLockdownExceptions() If the exception users list contains accounts that do not require special permissions, this is a finding. Note: This list is not intended for system administrator accounts but for special circumstances such as a service account.

Fix text

From the vSphere Web Client select the ESXi Host and go to Manage >> Settings >> Security Profile. Under lockdown mode click Edit and remove unnecessary users to the exceptions list.

Pro Tips

Lavender hyperlinks in small type off to the right (of CSS class id, if you view the page source) point to globally unique URIs for each document and item. Copy the link location and paste anywhere you need to talk unambiguously about these things.

You can obtain data about documents and items in other formats. Simply provide an HTTP header Accept: text/turtle or Accept: application/rdf+xml.