Detections
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18.10.72.1 Ensure 'Allow widgets' is set to 'Disabled'

Information

This policy setting specifies whether the Widgets feature is allowed on the device. The Widgets feature provides information such as weather, news, sports, stocks, traffic, and entertainment (not an inclusive list).

The recommended state for this setting is: Disabled.

Data must never be shared with third-parties without explicit consent, as it may contain sensitive information. Due to privacy concerns, apps and features such as Widgets on the Windows taskbar should be treated as a possible security risk.

Solution

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

Computer Configuration\Policies\Administrative Templates\Windows Components\Widgets\Allow widgets

Note: This Group Policy path is provided by the Group Policy template NewsAndInterests.admx/adml that is included with the Microsoft Windows 11 Release 21H2 Administrative Templates (or newer).

Impact:

The Widgets feature on the Windows taskbar will not be available on the device.

See Also

https://workbench.cisecurity.org/benchmarks/26061

Item Details

Category: CONFIGURATION MANAGEMENT

References: 800-53|CM-6, 800-53|CM-7

Plugin: Windows

Control ID: d47fb131d752eed40c13ee517a4181259c16194872ffda2e0febbf0d1cb88ebf