Rule: Ensure IAM password policy requires at least one lowercase letter
This rule ensures that IAM password policy mandates at least one lowercase letter for improved security
| Rule | Ensure IAM password policy requires at least one lowercase letter |
| Framework | General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) |
| Severity | ✔ Medium |
Rule Description:
This rule ensures that the IAM (Identity and Access Management) password policy complies with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) by requiring at least one lowercase letter in user passwords. The GDPR is a regulation that enhances the protection of personal data for individuals within the European Union (EU).
Troubleshooting Steps:
If users are experiencing issues with this password policy, follow these troubleshooting steps:
- 1.
Passwords not being accepted: Ensure that the passwords being set or updated contain at least one lowercase letter. Users should check if they have entered a lowercase letter in their password. Remind them that passwords are case-sensitive.
- 2.
Failed password policy validation: If a password fails the policy validation, users will receive an error message stating the reason for the failure. Advise the user to review the error message and make the necessary changes to include at least one lowercase letter in their password.
- 3.
Policy not enforced: Ensure that the IAM password policy requires at least one lowercase letter. Check the policy settings and verify if the "require lowercase characters" option is enabled. If not, update the policy accordingly.
Necessary Codes:
There are no specific codes required for this rule. The configuration can be done through the AWS Management Console, AWS CLI, or SDKs/APIs.
Step-by-Step Guide for Remediation:
Follow these steps to ensure that the IAM password policy requires at least one lowercase letter:
- 1.
AWS Management Console:
a. Log in to the AWS Management Console.
b. Navigate to the IAM service.
c. In the left navigation pane, click on "Account settings".
d. Under "Password policy", click on "Edit" to modify the policy.
e. Enable the option "Require at least one lowercase letter" if it is not already enabled.
f. Click on "Apply password policy" to save the changes.
- 2.
AWS CLI:
a. Open the AWS CLI or terminal.
b. Run the following command to update the IAM password policy:
aws iam update-account-password-policy --require-lowercase-characters - 3.
SDKs/APIs:
Utilize the programming language of your choice and the relevant AWS SDK to modify the IAM password policy. Refer to the SDK documentation for the specific method to enable the requirement for at least one lowercase letter.
Ensure to communicate the new policy requirements to the users and educate them on creating passwords that include at least one lowercase letter. Encourage them to utilize a combination of uppercase letters, numbers, and special characters for stronger passwords.
Remember to regularly review and update the IAM password policy as necessary to align with any changes in GDPR guidelines or organizational security requirements.