Rule: Password policies for IAM users should have strong configurations
This rule emphasizes the need for robust password policies for IAM users.
| Rule | Password policies for IAM users should have strong configurations |
| Framework | GxP 21 CFR Part 11 |
| Severity | ✔ Critical |
Password Policy for IAM Users with Strong Configurations for GxP 21 CFR Part 11
Description
In order to enforce security measures and protect sensitive information, it is essential to implement a strong password policy for IAM (Identity and Access Management) users, particularly when complying with GxP (Good Practice) 21 CFR Part 11 regulations. This policy ensures that users create and maintain robust passwords that meet the required security standards.
Policy Details
The password policy for IAM users with strong configurations includes the following key requirements:
- 1.
Password Complexity: Users must create passwords that meet specific criteria regarding complexity. This requirement ensures that passwords are difficult to guess or crack. A strong password consists of a combination of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters.
- 2.
Minimum Password Length: Set a minimum password length that users must adhere to. This helps increase the overall strength of passwords by ensuring they are not too short. The recommended minimum length is typically eight characters, but it can be adjusted based on organizational needs.
- 3.
Password Expiration: Implement a password expiration policy to ensure that users regularly change their passwords. This prevents attackers from using compromised passwords for an extended period of time.
- 4.
Password History: Enforce a password history policy to prohibit users from reusing previously used passwords. This prevents users from cycling through a limited set of passwords and ensures stronger password diversity.
- 5.
Account Lockout: Activate an account lockout mechanism that temporarily locks user accounts after a certain number of failed login attempts. This helps prevent brute-force attacks where an attacker systematically attempts to guess a user's password.
- 6.
Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Implement MFA as an additional layer of security for IAM users. This adds an extra step to the authentication process, requiring users to provide a second form of verification such as a code generated by a mobile app, a fingerprint scan, or a hardware token.
Troubleshooting Steps
If users are experiencing issues related to the password policy, follow these troubleshooting steps:
- 1.
Password Complexity Issues: Ensure that users are following the complexity requirements for their passwords. Provide guidelines on creating strong passwords, including the use of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters.
- 2.
Minimum Password Length: Check if users are meeting the minimum password length requirement. Remind users to create passwords with the prescribed number of characters.
- 3.
Password Expiration: If users are prompted to change their passwords due to expiration, ensure they create a new password that satisfies the policy requirements.
- 4.
Password History: If users are unable to reuse previous passwords, remind them to choose a new password that they have not used before.
- 5.
Account Lockout: If an account is locked due to failed login attempts, verify the user's identity and either unlock the account or provide instructions on how to reset the password.
- 6.
Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): If users are having trouble with the MFA process, provide assistance in setting up and properly configuring the additional verification method.
Necessary Codes (if applicable)
There are no specific codes associated with this policy. However, the policy can be enforced using configuration settings within the IAM system or through the use of identity and access management tools.
Remediation Steps
To remediate non-compliance with the password policy for IAM users:
- 1.
Review Existing Password Policy: Evaluate the current password policy to ensure it aligns with the requirements mentioned above.
- 2.
Update Password Complexity: Modify the password policy to enforce the usage of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters in passwords.
- 3.
Set Minimum Password Length: Define the minimum password length according to organizational requirements. Best practice suggests a minimum length of eight characters, but it can be adjusted as needed.
- 4.
Configure Password Expiration: Implement a policy that mandates password changes after a defined period, such as every 60 or 90 days.
- 5.
Enforce Password History: Configure the system to disallow password reuse to ensure users select a new password every time.
- 6.
Activate Account Lockout: Enable account lockout after a specified number of failed login attempts to provide protection against brute-force attacks.
- 7.
Implement Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Integrate MFA into the authentication process to enhance security. Users should be prompted to set up and enroll in additional verification methods.
- 8.
Communicate Policy Changes: Inform all IAM users about the updated password policy, the reason for the changes, and any necessary steps they need to take to comply with the new requirements.
- 9.
Monitor and Enforce Compliance: Regularly review user accounts to ensure adherence to the password policy. Continuously monitor password complexity, expiration, account lockouts, and MFA usage.
By implementing and enforcing this revamped password policy, organizations can enhance the security of their IAM users' accounts and comply with the GxP 21 CFR Part 11 regulations.