Rule: Backup Recovery Points Should be Encrypted
This rule emphasizes the importance of encrypting backup recovery points for enhanced data security.
| Rule | Backup recovery points should be encrypted |
| Framework | NIST 800-171 Revision 2 |
| Severity | ✔ Low |
Rule Description:
Backup recovery points should be encrypted to comply with the security requirements of NIST 800-171 Revision 2. This ensures that sensitive data stored in backup recovery points remains protected and can only be accessed by authorized individuals.
Troubleshooting Steps:
If you encounter any issues with encrypting backup recovery points, you may follow these troubleshooting steps:
- 1.
Verify backup software encryption settings: Check the configuration settings of your backup software to ensure that encryption is enabled for backup recovery points. Ensure that the encryption algorithm and key management are compliant with NIST 800-171 Revision 2.
- 2.
Confirm encryption key availability: Make sure that the encryption keys required for encrypting and decrypting backup recovery points are available. If necessary, consult the documentation or support resources of your backup solution to understand how to manage encryption keys.
- 3.
Check for software updates: Ensure that you are running the latest version of your backup software, as software updates often address known encryption-related issues. Install any available updates and test the encryption functionality again.
- 4.
Verify encryption policies: Review the encryption policies configured within your backup software. Ensure that they align with the encryption requirements of NIST 800-171 Revision 2. Adjust the policies if necessary to comply with the defined standards.
- 5.
Validate backup storage encryption: Confirm that the storage used for backup recovery points, such as tapes or disk systems, also supports encryption. Check the storage device documentation or consult with the vendor to understand encryption capabilities and configuration steps.
Necessary Codes (if applicable):
In certain cases, backup software may require specific codes or scripts to implement encryption for recovery points. However, since the backup software and environment may vary, it is recommended to refer to the documentation specific to your backup software to obtain the required codes or scripts.
Step-by-Step Guide for Remediation:
Follow these steps to ensure backup recovery points are encrypted in compliance with NIST 800-171 Revision 2:
- 1.
Identify your backup software: Determine which backup software is being used in your environment. This could be software provided by vendors like Veeam, Commvault, or Microsoft Azure Backup, among others.
- 2.
Ensure software compatibility: Verify that the version of your backup software supports encryption for recovery points and is compatible with NIST 800-171 Revision 2.
- 3.
Enable encryption: Access the configuration settings of your backup software and locate the encryption options. Enable encryption for backup recovery points if it is not already enabled.
- 4.
Configure encryption parameters: Specify the encryption algorithm and key management options as per the requirements of NIST 800-171 Revision 2. Ensure that the chosen encryption algorithm is approved and compliant with the standard.
- 5.
Define encryption key policies: Establish policies for encryption key management, such as periodic key rotation, secure storage of encryption keys, and restricted access to authorized personnel only. Abide by the relevant NIST guidelines and recommendations for key management.
- 6.
Test backup encryption: Perform a test backup to ensure that the recovery points generated are encrypted. Validate that the encryption is functioning as expected without any errors or issues.
- 7.
Monitor and enforce compliance: Regularly monitor backup operations to ensure that encryption remains enabled and functions properly. Implement necessary auditing mechanisms to track encryption features and generate compliance reports.
By following these steps, you can achieve compliance with NIST 800-171 Revision 2 by encrypting your backup recovery points.