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The macOS system must be configured to disable the application Messages.


Overview

Finding ID Version Rule ID IA Controls Severity
V-209576 AOSX-14-002011 SV-209576r610285_rule Low
Description
It is detrimental for operating systems to provide, or install by default, functionality exceeding requirements or mission objectives. These unnecessary capabilities or services are often overlooked and therefore may remain unsecured. They increase the risk to the platform by providing additional attack vectors. Operating systems are capable of providing a wide variety of functions and services. Some of the functions and services, provided by default, may not be necessary to support essential organizational operations (e.g., key missions, functions). Examples of non-essential capabilities include but are not limited to games, software packages, tools, and demonstration software not related to requirements or providing a wide array of functionality not required for every mission but that cannot be disabled. The application Messages establishes connections to Apple's iCloud, despite using security controls to disable iCloud access. Satisfies: SRG-OS-000095-GPOS-00049, SRG-OS-000370-GPOS-00155
STIG Date
Apple OS X 10.14 (Mojave) Security Technical Implementation Guide 2021-06-21

Details

Check Text ( C-9827r282210_chk )
To check if there is a configuration policy defined for "Application Restrictions", run the following command:

/usr/sbin/system_profiler SPConfigurationProfileDataType | /usr/bin/grep -A 5 familyControlsEnabled | grep "Messages.app"

If the return does not contain "/Applications/Messages.app", this is a finding.
Fix Text (F-9827r282211_fix)
This setting is enforced using the "Restrictions Policy" configuration profile.