SC.L2-3.13.15 Communications Authenticity

Protect the authenticity of communications sessions.

Source: NIST SP 800-171 Rev 2 3.13.15

Discussion: Authenticity protection includes protecting against man-in-the-middle attacks, session hijacking, and the insertion of false information into communications sessions. This requirement addresses communications protection at the session versus packet level (e.g., sessions in service-oriented architectures providing web-based services) and establishes grounds for confidence at both ends of communications sessions in ongoing identities of other parties and in the validity of information transmitted. [SP 800-77], [SP 800-95], and [SP 800-113] provide guidance on secure communications sessions.

Assessment Objectives:

Determine if:

Examine: [SELECT FROM: System and communications protection policy; procedures addressing session authenticity; security plan; system design documentation; system configuration settings and associated documentation; system audit logs and records; other relevant documents or records].

Interview: [SELECT FROM: System or network administrators; personnel with information security responsibilities].

Test: [SELECT FROM: Mechanisms supporting or implementing session authenticity].

SPRS Score: 5

POA&M Allowed: No