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SC-18(4)Mobile Code | Prevent Automatic Execution

IL5
IL6

>Control Description

Prevent the automatic execution of mobile code in organization-defined software applications and enforce organization-defined actions prior to executing the code.

>DoD Impact Level Requirements

DoD FedRAMP+ Parameters

Software applications such as but not limited to email, scriptable document/file editing applications that support documents with embedded code (e.g., Microsoft Office applications/documents), etc. Prompting the user for permission.

>Discussion

Actions enforced before executing mobile code include prompting users prior to opening email attachments or clicking on web links. Preventing the automatic execution of mobile code includes disabling auto-execute features on system components that employ portable storage devices, such as compact discs, digital versatile discs, and universal serial bus devices.

>Assessment Interview Topics

Questions assessors commonly ask

Process & Governance:

  • What policies govern the implementation of prevent automatic execution?
  • How are system and communications protection requirements defined and maintained?
  • Who is responsible for configuring and maintaining the security controls specified in SC-18(4)?

Technical Implementation:

  • How is prevent automatic execution technically implemented in your environment?
  • What systems, tools, or configurations enforce this protection requirement?
  • How do you ensure that prevent automatic execution remains effective as the system evolves?

Evidence & Documentation:

  • What documentation demonstrates the implementation of SC-18(4)?
  • Can you provide configuration evidence or system diagrams showing this protection control?
  • What logs or monitoring data verify that this control is functioning correctly?

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