Microsoft Entra ID must enforce the limit of three consecutive invalid logon attempts by a user during a 15-minute time period.

By limiting the number of failed login attempts, the risk of unauthorized system access via user password guessing, otherwise known as brute forcing, is reduced. Limits are imposed by locking the account.

Satisfies: SRG-APP-000345

Verify Entra ID is configured to enforce the limit of three consecutive invalid logon attempts by a user during a 15-minute time period.

1. Sign in to the Microsoft Entra admin center as at least an Authentication Policy Administrator. 2. Browse to Identity >> Protection >> Authentication methods >> Password protection. 3. Verify the Lockout Threshold has been set to "3" and Lockout duration is set to "900" or more.

If Entra ID is not configured to enforce the limit of three consecutive invalid logon attempts with a lockout period of 15 minutes, this is a finding.

To configure account lockout settings, complete these steps:

1. Sign in to the Microsoft Entra admin center as at least an Authentication Administrator. 2. Browse to Identity >> Protection >> Authentication methods >> Password protection. 3. Set the Lockout threshold to "3". 4. Set the Lockout duration to "900" (15 minutes).