2.5.14.3.17 (L1) Ensure 'Do not allow Outlook object model scripts to run for public folders' is set to 'Enabled'

Information

This policy setting controls whether Outlook executes scripts that are associated with custom forms or folder home pages for public folders. By enabling this policy setting, Outlook cannot execute any scripts associated with public folders, overriding any configuration changes on users' computers.

The recommended state for this setting is: Enabled

In Outlook, folders can be associated with custom forms or folder home pages that include scripts that access the Outlook object model. These scripts can add functionality to the folders and items contained within, but dangerous scripts can pose security risks.

By default, Outlook allows scripts included in custom forms or folder home pages for public folders to execute. If users inadvertently run dangerous scripts when using public folders, their computers or data could be at risk.

Solution

To establish the recommended state via configuration profiles, set the following Settings Catalog path to Enabled :

Microsoft Outlook 2016\Security\Security Form Settings\Outlook Security Mode > Do not allow Outlook object model scripts to run for public folders

Important: For this setting to apply, the

Outlook Security Mode

setting must be enabled in

Microsoft Outlook 2016\Security\Security Form Settings

with Use Outlook Security Group Policy selected, as set in this benchmark.

Impact:

If organizations use custom forms or public folder home pages that contain scripts, enabling this setting can reduce their functionality or render them unusable. Consider surveying the organization's public folders for affected items before enabling this setting.

See Also

https://workbench.cisecurity.org/benchmarks/15808

Item Details

Category: CONFIGURATION MANAGEMENT, SYSTEM AND INFORMATION INTEGRITY

References: 800-53|CM-7, 800-53|CM-7(1), 800-53|SI-7, 800-53|SI-7(1)

Plugin: Windows

Control ID: 63586eaf22bd50cad68f3ceb0a0ed48b90287083d39be956d6920f0a59fdfd86