IAM Root User MFA Enabled Rule

Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) adds an extra layer of protection on top of a username and password. For AWS accounts, it is recommended to enable MFA for the root user to secure the account against unauthorized access. In an environment where AWS Control Tower is used, enabling MFA for the root user is particularly important, as this account has complete access to all AWS services and resources.

AWS Control Tower's Guardrails are high-level rules that provide governance for securing AWS environments. Mandating MFA for the root user within these Guardrails ensures that the AWS Audit Manager can successfully audit the compliance and security posture of the AWS environment.

If the IAM root user MFA is not enabled, follow these steps to troubleshoot and remedy the situation:

Using the AWS Management Console:

• Sign in to the AWS Management Console with the root user credentials.
• Go to the "My Security Credentials" section from the account drop-down on the top right corner.
• Look for the Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) section to see if MFA is enabled.

If MFA is not enabled, you can enable it by selecting “Activate MFA” on the same page.

Here's how you can enable MFA for the root user through the AWS Management Console:

• Use your root user credentials to log in.

• Click on "My Security Credentials" in the account drop-down menu at the top-right corner of the console.

• In the Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) section, click on “Activate MFA”.
• Choose a virtual MFA device or a hardware MFA device as per your preference and follow the instructions provided to set it up.

AWS CLI does not support enabling MFA for the root user; this action must be done through the AWS Management Console.

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By implementing and documenting security measures like MFA for root users in accordance with AWS Audit Manager and Control Tower Guardrails, you ensure a stronger security posture and better compliance reporting for your AWS environment.