Details

Unsigned code is potentially harmful, especially when coming from an untrusted zone. ActiveX controls can contain potentially malicious code and must only be allowed to be downloaded from trusted sites and they must be digitally signed.

Solution

Set the policy value for Computer Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Windows Components -> Internet Explorer -> Internet Control Panel -> Security Page -> Restricted Sites Zone -> ‘Download unsigned ActiveX controls’ to ‘Enabled’ and select ‘Disable’ from the drop-down box.

Supportive Information

The following resource is also helpful.

• https://dl.dod.cyber.mil/wp-content/uploads/stigs/zip/U_Microsoft_IE9_V1R15_STIG.zip

This security hardening control applies to the following category of controls within NIST 800-53: System and Communications Protection.This control applies to the following type of system Windows.

References

• 800-53|SC-18(3)
• CAT|II
• Rule-ID|SV-40587r1_rule
• STIG-ID|DTBI113
• Vuln-ID|V-6290

Source

• Tenable.com/audits