18.10.9.3.11 Ensure 'Configure use of passwords for removable data drives' is set to 'Disabled'

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Information

This policy setting allows you to specify whether a password is required to unlock BitLocker-protected removable data drives.

Note: This setting is enforced when turning on BitLocker, not when unlocking a drive. BitLocker will allow unlocking a drive with any of the protectors available on the drive.

The recommended state for this setting is: Disabled.

Rationale:

Using a dictionary-style attack, passwords can be guessed or discovered by repeatedly attempting to unlock a drive. Since this type of BitLocker password does not include anti-dictionary attack protections provided by a TPM, for example, there is no mechanism to slow down use of rapid brute-force attacks against them.

Impact:

The password option will not be available when configuring BitLocker for removable drives.

Solution

To establish the recommended configuration via GP, set the following UI path to Disabled:

Computer Configuration\Policies\Administrative Templates\Windows Components\BitLocker Drive Encryption\Removable Data Drives\Configure use of passwords for removable data drives

Note: This Group Policy path may not exist by default. It is provided by the Group Policy template VolumeEncryption.admx/adml that is included with the Microsoft Windows 7 & Server 2008 R2 Administrative Templates (or newer).

Default Value:

Passwords are supported, without complexity requirements and with an 8 character minimum.

See Also

https://workbench.cisecurity.org/benchmarks/12434