5.4 - Security Password Policies

Greetings, Tech Talkers!

This is Tor, your trusted network engineering uplink! Today, we're focusing on an essential aspect of network security—Security Password Policies. Implementing strong password policies is critical to protect your network devices and data from unauthorized access and potential breaches.

In this article, we'll discuss the importance of password policies, key elements to include, and how to enforce them on your network devices. By the end, you'll have the knowledge to develop and implement effective password policies that enhance your organization's security posture.

Let's get started!

Why Password Policies Matter

Protecting Against Unauthorized Access:

• First Line of Defense: Passwords are often the first barrier preventing unauthorized users from accessing systems.

• Mitigating Risks: Weak or compromised passwords can lead to data breaches, unauthorized changes, and other security incidents.

Compliance Requirements:

• Regulatory Standards: Many industries require adherence to specific password policies (e.g., PCI DSS, HIPAA, GDPR).

• Auditing and Accountability: Demonstrates due diligence in protecting sensitive information.

Key Elements of a Strong Password Policy

1. Password Complexity Requirements:

• Minimum Length: Require passwords to be at least a certain number of characters (e.g., 8 or more).

• Character Variety: Include a mix of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters.

• Avoid Common Passwords: Prohibit the use of easily guessable passwords (e.g., "password123", "admin").

2. Password Expiration and Rotation:

• Regular Changes: Mandate that passwords be changed periodically (e.g., every 60 or 90 days).

• Password History: Prevent reuse of previous passwords by maintaining a history (e.g., last 5 passwords).

3. Account Lockout Policies:

• Failed Login Attempts: Lock accounts after a certain number of unsuccessful login attempts (e.g., 5 attempts).

• Lockout Duration: Set a lockout period or require administrator intervention to unlock.

4. Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA):

• Additional Security Layer:** Require users to provide multiple forms of verification (e.g., password plus a code sent to a mobile device).

5. Password Storage and Transmission:

• Encryption: Store passwords using strong hashing algorithms with salts.

• Secure Transmission: Ensure passwords are transmitted over secure channels (e.g., SSH, HTTPS).

6. User Education:

• Training: Educate users on creating strong passwords and the importance of keeping them confidential.

• Awareness: Highlight risks associated with password sharing and phishing attacks.

7. Administrative Controls:

• Privileged Access Management: Limit the number of users with administrative privileges.

• Regular Audits: Review user accounts and permissions periodically.

Implementing Password Policies on Cisco Devices

Configuring Password Complexity and Minimum Length:

1. Set Minimum Password Length:

Router(config)# security passwords min-length [length]

Example:

Router(config)# security passwords min-length 8

2. Enforce Password Complexity (Using Local AAA):

Cisco IOS doesn't provide direct commands to enforce complexity, but you can use AAA with password policies.

- Enable AAA:

     Router(config)# aaa new-model

- Use Local AAA Authentication:

     Router(config)# aaa authentication login default local

Configuring Password Aging and History:

1. Enable Password Aging:

Router(config)# username [username] password [password] password-expire [days]

Example:
Router(config)# username admin secret UserP@ssw0rd password-expire 90

2. Set Password Reuse Restriction:

Cisco IOS may require external AAA servers (e.g., Cisco ISE, RADIUS) to enforce password history policies.

Configuring Account Lockout Policies:

1. Set Login Block for Failed Attempts:

Router(config)# login block-for [seconds] attempts [number] within [seconds]

Example:

Router(config)# login block-for 300 attempts 5 within 300

Explanation

  - Blocks login attempts for 5 minutes if there are 5 failed attempts within 5 minutes.

Configuring Secure Password Storage:

1. Encrypt Passwords:

Enable Service Password Encryption:

Router(config)# service password-encryption

Note: This uses a weak encryption method (Type 7). For stronger encryption, use `secret` keyword when configuring passwords.

2. Use Strong Hashing Algorithms:

Configure Type 8 (PBKDF2) or Type 9 (Scrypt) Hashes:

Router(config)# key config-key password-encrypt [password]

For enhanced security, but may require specific IOS versions.

Using External AAA Servers for Enhanced Policies

For more granular control over password policies, consider integrating with external AAA servers:

• Cisco Identity Services Engine (ISE)

• RADIUS Servers

• TACACS+ Servers

Benefits:

• Centralized management of user accounts and policies.

• Advanced password policies and compliance enforcement.

• Detailed logging and auditing capabilities.

Educating Users on Password Best Practices

• Create Strong Passwords:

  • Use passphrases or sentences.

  • Avoid using personal information.

• Do Not Share Passwords:

  • Emphasize the importance of keeping passwords confidential.

• Beware of Phishing Attempts:

  • Do not provide passwords in response to emails or unsolicited requests.

• Use Password Managers:

  • Encourage the use of secure password management tools. My Personal favorite is Keeper Security.

Monitoring and Auditing

• Regularly Review Logs:

  • Check for unauthorized access attempts.

  • Monitor for account lockouts or unusual activities.

• Audit User Accounts:

  • Remove or disable inactive accounts.

  • Verify that users have appropriate privilege levels.

Best Practices for Password Policies

• Consistency Across the Organization:

  • Ensure that password policies are applied uniformly to all systems and devices.

• Stay Updated with Industry Standards:

  • Follow guidelines from organizations like NIST or OWASP.

• Balance Security and Usability:

  • Avoid overly complex requirements that may lead to insecure practices (e.g., writing down passwords).

• Regular Policy Review:

  • Update policies to address new threats and technological changes.

Wrapping It Up

Implementing robust security password policies is a critical step in safeguarding your network devices and data. By enforcing strong passwords, educating users, and leveraging tools for policy enforcement, you can significantly reduce the risk of unauthorized access and enhance your overall security posture.

Until next time, Tech Talkers, keep your passwords strong and your networks secure!

Thanks,

Tor – Your trusted network engineering uplink