Rule version AWTM-NM-000044 · STIG v1 · 2026-09-14
Authentication for administrative (privileged level) access to the device is required at all times. An account can be created on the device's local database for use when the authentication server is down or connectivity between the device and the authentication server is not operable. This account is referred to as the account of last resort since it is intended to be used as a last resort and when immediate administrative access is absolutely necessary.
The account of last resort logon credentials must be stored in a sealed envelope and kept in a safe. The safe must be periodically audited to verify the envelope remains sealed. The signature of the auditor and the date of the audit must be added to the envelope as a record. Administrators must secure the credentials and disable the root account (if possible) when not needed for system administration functions.
1. Log in to the SSH CLI. 2. Enter "show running-config | include user". 3. Verify only the account of last resort and the SNMPv3 user (if used) is defined locally on the WTM.
If local accounts other than the account of last resort and system accounts such as SNMPv3 are on the WTM, this is a finding.
1. Log in to the SSH CLI. 2. Enter "configure terminal". 3. Enter "no user <username>" to remove unauthorized accounts. 4. Enter "Commit".