Ensure IAM password policy prevents password reuse
This rule ensures that the IAM password policy effectively prevents password reuse.
| Rule | Ensure IAM password policy prevents password reuse |
| Framework | cis_v150 |
| Severity | ✔ High |
Ensuring IAM Password Policy Prevents Password Reuse in AWS (CIS v1.5.0)
When managing AWS Identity and Access Management (IAM) users, it's crucial to have a strong password policy to enhance account security. One important aspect is to prevent password reuse, which CIS AWS Foundations Benchmark v1.5.0 stipulates under its recommendations.
Overview of the Rule
The rule requires that the IAM password policy should not allow users to reuse their previous passwords. This helps to prevent potential compromise if an old password is obtained by unauthorized parties.
CIS (Center for Internet Security) AWS Foundations Benchmark v1.5.0 Guideline states:
- IAM policies must prevent password reuse for a specified number of generations.
Troubleshooting Steps
If you encounter issues with setting or enforcing the password policy to prevent password reuse, the following steps can be taken:
Step 1: Check IAM Password Policy Configuration
Verify that a password policy is in place and properly configured:
- Sign in to the AWS Management Console as an administrator.
- Navigate to the IAM dashboard.
- Access the 'Account settings' section and review the password policy.
Step 2: Update IAM Password Policy Using AWS CLI
If the password policy does not prevent password reuse, update it by using the AWS Command Line Interface (CLI).
- Ensure AWS CLI is installed and configured with the necessary permissions.
- Execute the following command to update the policy, where N is the number of passwords to remember (preventing reuse):
aws iam update-account-password-policy \ --password-reuse-prevention N \ --profile admin-profile
Replace
admin-profileRemediation Guide
Step by Step Guide to Enforce Password Reuse Prevention
Step 1: Log into AWS Management Console
Use an account with administrative privileges.
Step 2: Navigate to IAM Service
Access the IAM dashboard to review the current password policy.
Step 3: Modify the Password Policy Settings
- Click on 'Account settings.'
- Locate the section for password policy.
- Click 'Change password policy.'
- Set the 'Password reuse prevention' value. This number dictates how many unique new passwords must be used before an old password can be reused.
Step 4: Save the Changes
Click 'Save changes' to enforce the new password policy.
AWS CLI Command
To enforce password reuse prevention in the AWS CLI, use:
aws iam update-account-password-policy \ --password-reuse-prevention N \ --region your-region
Replace
Nyour-regionBy following this guide and enforcing a strong password policy, you enhance your AWS environment's security and align with CIS standards, which is beneficial for both SEO and security posturing. This actionable information ensures users have a clear direction without unnecessary filler data, aiding in swift implementation and problem resolution.