6.2.2 Ensure no legacy '+' entries exist in /etc/passwd

Warning! Audit Deprecated

This audit has been deprecated and will be removed in a future update.

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Information

The character + in various files used to be markers for systems to insert data from NIS maps at a certain point in a system configuration file. These entries are no longer required on most systems, but may exist in files that have been imported from other platforms.

Rationale:

These entries may provide an avenue for attackers to gain privileged access on the system.

Solution

Remove any legacy '+' entries from /etc/passwd if they exist.

See Also

https://workbench.cisecurity.org/files/2658