AU.L2-3.3.9 Audit Management

Limit management of audit logging functionality to a subset of privileged users.

Source: NIST SP 800-171 Rev 2 3.3.9

Discussion: Individuals with privileged access to a system and who are also the subject of an audit by that system, may affect the reliability of audit information by inhibiting audit logging activities or modifying audit records. This requirement specifies that privileged access be further defined between audit-related privileges and other privileges, thus limiting the users with audit-related privileges

Assessment Objectives:

Determine if:

• [a] a subset of privileged users granted access to manage audit logging functionality is defined; and
• [b] management of audit logging functionality is limited to the defined subset of privileged users.

Examine: [SELECT FROM: Audit and accountability policy; access control policy and procedures; procedures addressing protection of audit information; security plan; system design documentation; system configuration settings and associated documentation; access authorizations; system-generated list of privileged users with access to management of audit logging functionality; access control list; system audit logs and records; other relevant documents or records].

Interview: [SELECT FROM: Personnel with audit and accountability responsibilities; personnel with information security responsibilities; system or network administrators; system developers].

Test: [SELECT FROM: Mechanisms managing access to audit logging functionality].

SPRS Score: 1

POA&M Allowed: Yes