NIST 800-171 Control 3.1.15: Privileged Remote Access
Privileged remote access is a critical attack surface for CUI systems. Control 3.1.15 requires you to restrict and document remote execution of privileged commands and access to security-relevant information. Without proper controls, remote sessions become vectors for lateral movement and data exfiltration.
What this means
This control mandates that organizations authorize remote execution of privileged commands and access to security-relevant information only when there is documented operational need. This means establishing formal procedures that require justification, approval, and logging before anyone can remotely execute high-risk commands or access sensitive system configuration data. The control balances operational efficiency with security by preventing unauthorized remote privilege escalation while maintaining necessary administrative capabilities.
How to comply
- 1.Document all operational needs requiring privileged remote access with business justification and technical rationale
- 2.Establish formal authorization procedures requiring approval before granting remote privileged access
- 3.Implement multi-factor authentication for all privileged remote sessions
- 4.Restrict remote access to specific commands and functions based on documented need
- 5.Log all privileged remote access events with timestamps, user identity, commands executed, and results
- 6.Review and re-authorize privileged remote access accounts at least annually
- 7.Disable unnecessary remote access capabilities and protocols on systems handling CUI
- 8.Use jump hosts or bastion servers to centralize and monitor privileged remote connections
Evidence auditors look for
- Remote access authorization policy documented with operational need requirements
- Approval request forms or tickets for each privileged remote access grant
- Access control lists limiting which users and systems can execute remote privileged commands
- Multi-factor authentication configuration logs for remote privileged sessions
- Audit logs showing all remote privileged command executions with context
- Annual access review documentation confirming ongoing business need for remote privileges
- Bastion host or jump server configuration restricting remote access paths
- Security group or firewall rules limiting remote access to approved users and networks
Frequently asked questions
When will FAQs be available?
The FAQ for this control is currently being prepared.
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