Microsoft Defender for Endpoint (MDE) must enable Custom network indicators.

Severity
Group ID
Group Title
Version
Rule ID
Date
STIG Version
mediumV-275982SRG-APP-000279MSDE-00-000650SV-275982r1119712_rule2025-07-151
Description
Malicious code protection mechanisms include, but are not limited to, antivirus and malware detection software. To minimize potential negative impact to the organization that can be caused by malicious code, it is imperative that malicious code is identified and eradicated. This setting configures devices to allow or block connections to IP addresses, domains, or URLs in custom indicator lists.
ℹ️ Check
Access the MDE portal as a user with at least an MDE Administrator or equivalent role: 1. In the navigation pane, select Settings >> Endpoints >> Advanced features (under General). 2. Verify the slide bar for "Custom network indicators" is set to "On". If the slide bar for "Custom network indicators" is not set to "On", this is a finding.
✔️ Fix
Access the MDE portal as a user with at least an MDE Administrator or equivalent role: 1. In the navigation pane, select Settings >> Endpoints >> Advanced features (under General). 2. Set the slide bar for "Custom network indicators" to "On".