SC.L2-3.13.4: Shared Resource Control in CMMC Level 2
Shared system resources can become an unintended pathway for sensitive data leakage if not properly controlled. SC.L2-3.13.4 requires you to implement safeguards that prevent both authorized and unauthorized information transfer through shared resources like memory, storage, and processing capacity. Meeting this control is essential for defending against data exfiltration in multi-tenant or multi-user environments.
What this means
This control addresses the risk that information stored or processed on shared system resources (such as RAM, disk cache, temporary files, or shared partitions) can be accessed by unauthorized users or processes. Without proper controls, residual data from one user's session could be recoverable by another. The control requires implementing technical and administrative measures to isolate and sanitize shared resources, ensuring that data from one user or application cannot be inadvertently or intentionally accessed by another.
How to comply
- 1.Inventory all shared system resources including memory, storage, caches, and processing capacity across your infrastructure
- 2.Implement resource isolation mechanisms such as containerization, virtual machines, or partitioning to logically separate user/application data
- 3.Deploy data sanitization or wiping procedures for shared storage and temporary areas after each use or session
- 4.Configure access controls on shared resources to enforce least privilege and prevent cross-user or cross-application data access
- 5.Monitor and audit access to shared resources to detect unauthorized attempts to retrieve residual data
- 6.Document your shared resource control policies and ensure all system administrators and relevant staff are trained on implementation
Evidence auditors look for
- Configuration documentation showing resource isolation settings in cloud platforms or virtualization layers
- Sanitization scripts and automated cleanup logs for temporary files, caches, and memory buffers
- Access control policies and role-based permission matrices for shared storage and system resources
- Audit logs demonstrating monitoring and alerting on shared resource access attempts
- Staff training records confirming personnel understand shared resource protection procedures
- Architecture diagrams showing logical separation of multi-tenant or multi-user environments
Frequently asked questions
When will FAQs be available?
The FAQ for this control is currently being prepared.
GRCWatch automates the discovery and monitoring of shared system resources across your infrastructure, tracks sanitization and isolation configurations, and provides pre-built evidence collection to prove SC.L2-3.13.4 compliance without manual audits.
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