CIS Microsoft Internet Explorer 10 Benchmark v1.1.0

CIS Microsoft Internet Explorer 10
Benchmark
v1.1.0 - 11-27-2014
http://benchmarks.cisecurity.org
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Table of Contents
Table of Contents .................................................................................................................................................. 2
Overview .................................................................................................................................................................. 3
Intended Audience ........................................................................................................................................... 3
Consensus Guidance........................................................................................................................................ 3
Typographical Conventions ......................................................................................................................... 4
Scoring Information ........................................................................................................................................ 4
Profile Definitions ............................................................................................................................................ 5
Acknowledgements ......................................................................................................................................... 5
Recommendations ................................................................................................................................................ 6
1 Anti-Malware.................................................................................................................................................. 6
2 ActiveX Settings .......................................................................................................................................... 14
3 Browsing History ....................................................................................................................................... 21
4 Component Updates ................................................................................................................................. 30
5 Certificates and Protocols ...................................................................................................................... 35
6 Internet Communication Management ............................................................................................. 42
7 Internet Explorer Process Security Features.................................................................................. 46
8 Security Zones............................................................................................................................................. 55
8.1 Internet Zone ...................................................................................................................................... 55
8.2 Intranet Zone ...................................................................................................................................... 95
8.3 Restricted Sites Zone ....................................................................................................................... 99
8.4 Local Machine Zone ........................................................................................................................ 146
8.5 Trusted Sites Zone .......................................................................................................................... 149
8.6 Locked-Down Internet Zone ....................................................................................................... 152
8.7 Locked-Down Intranet Zone ....................................................................................................... 155
8.8 Locked-Down Restricted Sites Zone ........................................................................................ 158
8.9 Locked-Down Local Machine Zone........................................................................................... 162
8.10 Locked-Down Trusted Sites Zone .......................................................................................... 165
9 Additional Settings .................................................................................................................................. 171
Appendix: Change History ............................................................................................................................ 187
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Overview
This document provides prescriptive guidance for establishing a secure configuration
posture for Microsoft Internet Explorer 10. This guide was tested against Microsoft
Internet Explorer 10 running on Microsoft Windows 8. To obtain the latest version of this
guide, please visit http://benchmarks.cisecurity.org. If you have questions, comments, or
have identified ways to improve this guide, please write us at feedback@cisecurity.org.
Intended Audience
This document is intended for system and application administrators, security specialists,
auditors, help desk, and platform deployment personnel who plan to develop, deploy,
assess, or secure solutions that incorporate Microsoft Internet Explorer 10.
Consensus Guidance
This benchmark was created using a consensus review process comprised subject matter
experts. Consensus participants provide perspective from a diverse set of backgrounds
including consulting, software development, audit and compliance, security research,
operations, government, and legal.
Each CIS benchmark undergoes two phases of consensus review. The first phase occurs
during initial benchmark development. During this phase, subject matter experts convene
to discuss, create, and test working drafts of the benchmark. This discussion occurs until
consensus has been reached on benchmark recommendations. The second phase begins
after the benchmark has been published. During this phase, all feedback provided by the
Internet community is reviewed by the consensus team for incorporation in the
benchmark. If you are interested in participating in the consensus process, please visit
https://community.cisecurity.org.
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Typographical Conventions
The following typographical conventions are used throughout this guide:
Convention Meaning
Stylized Monospace font Used for blocks of code, command, and script examples.
Text should be interpreted exactly as presented.
Monospace font Used for inline code, commands, or examples. Text should
be interpreted exactly as presented.
<italic font in brackets> Italic texts set in angle brackets denote a variable
requiring substitution for a real value.
Italic font Used to denote the title of a book, article, or other

publication.
Note Additional information or caveats
Scoring Information
A scoring status indicates whether compliance with the given recommendation impacts the
assessed target's benchmark score. The following scoring statuses are used in this
benchmark:
Scored
Failure to comply with "Scored" recommendations will decrease the final benchmark score.
Compliance with "Scored" recommendations will increase the final benchmark score.
Not Scored
Failure to comply with "Not Scored" recommendations will not decrease the final
benchmark score. Compliance with "Not Scored" recommendations will not increase the
final benchmark score.
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Profile Definitions
The following configuration profiles are defined by this Benchmark:
 Level 1
Items in this profile intend to:
o be practical and prudent;

o provide a clear security benefit; and
o not inhibit the utility of the technology beyond acceptable means.
Acknowledgements
The configuration recommendations contained in this document reflect consensus between
Microsoft Corporation, The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), and the
Center for Internet Security (CIS).
At the request of Microsoft and the Center for Internet Security, the National Security
Agency Information Assurance Directorate participated in the review of these
recommendations and provided comments that were incorporated into the final published
version.
We would like to thank our customers, partners and government agencies worldwide for
their participation and feedback.
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Recommendations
1 Anti-Malware
1.1 Set 'Turn on Enhanced Protected Mode' to 'Enabled' (Scored)
Profile Applicability:
 Level 1
Description:
Enhanced Protected Mode provides additional protection against malicious websites by

using 64-bit processes on 64-bit versions of Windows. For computers running Windows 8
and above, Enhanced Protected Mode also limits the locations Internet Explorer can read
from in the registry and the file system.
If you enable this policy setting, Enhanced Protected Mode will be turned on. Any zone that
has Protected Mode enabled will use Enhanced Protected Mode. Users will not be able to
disable Enhanced Protected Mode.
If you disable this policy setting, Enhanced Protected Mode will be turned off. Any zone that
has Protected Mode enabled will use the version of Protected Mode introduced in Internet
Explorer 7 for Windows Vista.
If you do not configure this policy, users will be able to turn on or turn off Enhanced
Protected Mode on the Advanced tab of the Internet Options dialog. The recommended
state for this setting is: Enabled.
Rationale:

Audit:
Navigate to the UI Path articulated in the Remediation section and confirm it is set as
prescribed. This group policy setting is backed by the following registry location:
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HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Policies\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Main\Isolation
Remediation:
To establish the recommended configuration via Group Policy, set the following UI path to
Enabled.
Computer Configuration\Administrative Templates\Windows Components\Internet

Explorer\Internet Control Panel\Advanced Page\Turn on Enhanced Protected Mode
Impact:
If you enable this policy setting, Enhanced Protected Mode will be turned on. Any zone that
has Protected Mode enabled will use Enhanced Protected Mode. Users will not be able to
disable Enhanced Protected Mode.
If you disable this policy setting, Enhanced Protected Mode will be turned off. Any zone that
has Protected Mode enabled will use the version of Protected Mode introduced in Internet
Explorer 7 for Windows Vista.
If you do not configure this policy, users will be able to turn on or turn off Enhanced
Protected Mode on the Advanced tab of the Internet Options dialog.
References:
1. CCE-20100-4
1.2 Set 'Allow software to run or install even if the signature is invalid'
to 'Disabled' (Scored)
 Level 1
Description:
Microsoft ActiveX® controls and file downloads often have digital signatures attached that
help certify the file's integrity and the identity of the signer (creator) of the software. Such
signatures help ensure that unmodified software is downloaded and that you can identify
active signers to determine whether you trust them enough to run their software.
The Allow software to run or install even if the signature is invalid setting allows you to
manage whether downloaded software can be installed or run by users even though the
signature is invalid. An invalid signature might indicate that someone has tampered with
the file. If you enable this policy setting, users will be prompted to install or run files with
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an invalid signature. If you disable this policy setting, users cannot run or install files with
an invalid signature.
Note: Some legitimate software and controls may have an invalid signature and still be OK.
You should carefully test such software in isolation before you allow it to be used on your
organization's network. The recommended state for this setting is: Disabled.
Rationale:
Microsoft ActiveX® controls and file downloads often have digital signatures attached that
certify the file's integrity and the identity of the signer (creator) of the software. Such
signatures help ensure that unmodified software is downloaded and that you can positively
identify the signer to determine whether you trust them enough to run their software. The
validity of unsigned code cannot be ascertained.
Audit:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Policies\Microsoft\Internet
Explorer\Download\RunInvalidSignatures
Remediation:
Disabled.

Explorer\Internet Control Panel\Advanced Page\Allow software to run or install even if
the signature is invalid
Impact:
Some legitimate software and controls may have an invalid signature. You should carefully
test such software in isolation before it is allowed to be used on your organization's
network.
Default Value:
Disabled
References:
1. CCE-20169-9
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1.3 Set 'Prevent Bypassing SmartScreen Filter Warnings' to 'Enabled'
(Scored)
 Level 1
Description:
The SmartScreen Filter prevents users from navigating to and downloading from sites
known to host malicious content, including Phishing or malicious software attacks. If you
enable this policy setting, the user is not permitted to navigate to sites identified as unsafe
by the SmartScreen Filter. If you disable this policy setting or do not configure it, the user
can ignore SmartScreen Filter warnings and navigate to unsafe sites. The recommended
Rationale:
If this setting is enabled and the SmartScreen Filter is active, the user can ignore a
SmartScreen Filter warning and navigate to a site determined to be unsafe.
Audit:
Explorer\PhishingFilter\PreventOverride
Remediation:
Enabled.

Explorer\Prevent Bypassing SmartScreen Filter Warnings
Impact:
Users cannot navigate to sites detected as unsafe by the SmartScreen Filter.
Default Value:
Disabled
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References:
1. CCE-20404-0
1.4 Set 'Prevent bypassing SmartScreen Filter warnings about files that
are not commonly downloaded from the Internet' to 'Enabled' (Scored)
 Level 1
Description:
This policy setting determines whether the user can bypass warnings from SmartScreen
Filter. SmartScreen Filter warns the user about executable files that Internet Explorer users
do not commonly download from the Internet.
If you enable this policy setting, SmartScreen Filter warnings block the user.
If you disable or do not configure this policy setting, the user can bypass SmartScreen Filter
warnings. The recommended state for this setting is: Enabled.
Rationale:
The SmartScreen Filter prevents users from navigating to and downloading from sites
known to host malicious content, including Phishing or malicious software attacks.
Audit:
Explorer\PhishingFilter\PreventOverrideAppRepUnknown
Remediation:
Enabled.

Explorer\Prevent bypassing SmartScreen Filter warnings about files that are not
commonly downloaded from the Internet
Impact:
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If you enable this policy setting, the user is not permitted to navigate to sites identified as
unsafe by the SmartScreen Filter. If you disable this policy setting or do not configure it, the
user can ignore SmartScreen Filter warnings and navigate to unsafe sites.
References:
1. CCE-21522-8
1.5 Configure 'Do not allow users to enable or disable add-ons' (Not
Scored)
 Level 1
Description:
This policy setting allows you to manage whether users have the ability to allow or deny
add-ons through Add-On Manager. If you enable this policy setting, users cannot enable or
disable add-ons through Add-On Manager. The only exception occurs if an add-on has been
specifically entered into the 'Add-On List' policy setting in such a way as to allow users to
continue to manage the add-on. In this case, the user can still manage the add-on through
the Add-On Manager. If you disable or do not configure this policy setting, the appropriate
controls in the Add-On Manager will be available to the user. Configure this setting in a
manner that is consistent with security and operational requirements of your organization.
Rationale:
Users often choose to install add-ons that are not permitted by an organization's security
policy. Such add-ons can pose a significant security and privacy risk to your network.
Audit:
Explorer\Restrictions\NoExtensionManagement
Remediation:
Not Configured.
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Explorer\Do not allow users to enable or disable add-ons
Impact:
When the Do not allow users to enable or disable add-ons setting is enabled, users will not
be able to enable or disable their own Internet Explorer add-ons. If your organization uses
add-ons, this configuration may affect their ability to work.
Default Value:
Disabled
References:
1. CCE-20602-9
1.6 Set 'Disable Save this program to disk option' to 'Enabled' (Scored)
 Level 1
Description:
This policy setting prevents users from saving a program or file that Internet Explorer has
downloaded to the hard disk. If you enable this policy setting, users cannot save programs
to disk with the Save this program to disk option. The program file will not download, and
the user is informed that the command is not available. The recommended state for this
setting is: Enabled.
Rationale:
Users could download and execute hostile code from Web sites.
Audit:
HKEY_USERS\<SID>\Software\Policies\Microsoft\Internet
Explorer\Restrictions\NoSelectDownloadDir
Remediation:
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Enabled.
User Configuration\Administrative Templates\Windows Components\Internet

Explorer\Browser menus\Disable Save this program to disk option
Impact:
Users will be unable to click the Save This Program to Disk button to download program
files.
Default Value:
Disabled
References:
1. CCE-21506-1
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2 ActiveX Settings
2.1 Set 'Prevent per-user installation of ActiveX controls' to 'Enabled'
(Scored)
 Level 1
Description:
This policy setting allows you to prevent the installation of ActiveX controls on a per-user
basis. If you enable this policy setting, ActiveX controls cannot be installed on a per-user
basis. If you disable or do not configure this policy setting, ActiveX controls can be installed
on a per-user basis. The recommended state for this setting is: Enabled.
Rationale:
Per-user installation of ActiveX controls is a convenient feature that many organizations

may want to leverage. One benefit is that even if the user installs a control that includes a
malicious payload its impact will be limited to the privileges of the user who installed it.
Nevertheless, restricting the installation of ActiveX controls to administrators and using the
ActiveX Installer Service or some other centralized software deployment tool is a more
effective method for avoiding malware.
Audit:
Explorer\Security\ActiveX\BlockNonAdminActiveXInstall
Remediation:
Enabled.

Explorer\Prevent per-user installation of ActiveX controls
Impact:
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If you enable this policy setting, ActiveX controls cannot be installed on a per-user basis. If
you disable or do not configure this policy setting, ActiveX controls can be installed on a
per-user basis.
References:
1. CCE-21551-7
2.2 Set 'Specify use of ActiveX Installer Service for installation of ActiveX
controls' to 'Enabled' (Scored)
 Level 1
Description:
This policy setting allows you to specify how ActiveX controls are installed. If you enable
this policy setting, ActiveX controls are installed only if the ActiveX Installer Service is
present and has been configured to allow the installation of ActiveX controls. If you disable
or do not configure this policy setting, ActiveX controls, including per-user controls, are
installed through the standard installation process. The recommended state for this setting
is: Enabled.
Rationale:
The ActiveX Installer Service can be a more secure method for deploying ActiveX controls
needed for business purposes than allowing users to download and install them because
organizations can ensure they are legitimate and scan them for malware prior to
deployment.
Audit:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Policies\Microsoft\Windows\AxInstaller\OnlyUseAXISForActiv
eXInstall
Remediation:
Enabled.
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Explorer\Specify use of ActiveX Installer Service for installation of ActiveX controls
Impact:
If you enable this policy setting, ActiveX controls are installed only if the ActiveX Installer
Service is present and has been configured to allow the installation of ActiveX controls. If
you disable or do not configure this policy setting, ActiveX controls, including per-user
controls, are installed through the standard installation process.
References:
1. CCE-21253-0
2.3 Set 'Turn on ActiveX Filtering' to 'Enabled' (Scored)

 Level 1
Description:
This policy setting controls the ActiveX Filtering feature for websites running ActiveX
controls. The user can choose to turn off ActiveX Filtering for specific websites so that its
ActiveX controls can run properly. If you enable this policy setting, ActiveX Filtering will be
enabled by default for the user. The user cannot turn off ActiveX Filtering although they
may add per-site exceptions. If you disable this policy setting or do not configure it, ActiveX
Filtering will not be enabled by default for the user. The user can turn ActiveX Filtering on
or off. The recommended state for this setting is: Enabled.
Rationale:
ActiveX Filtering allows you to make an informed decision about every ActiveX control you
run by giving you the ability to block ActiveX controls for all sites, and then turn them on
for only the sites that you trust. This can help improve your protection against risky and
unreliable ActiveX controls.
Audit:
Explorer\Safety\ActiveXFiltering\IsEnabled
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Remediation:
Enabled.

Explorer\Turn on ActiveX Filtering
Impact:
If you enable this policy setting, ActiveX Filtering will be enabled by default for the user.
The user cannot turn off ActiveX Filtering although they may add per-site exceptions. If you
disable this policy setting or do not configure it, ActiveX Filtering will not be enabled by
default for the user. The user can turn ActiveX Filtering on or off.
Default Value:
Disabled
References:
1. CCE-20685-4
2.4 Set 'Turn off ActiveX opt-in prompt' to 'Disabled' (Scored)

 Level 1
Description:
This policy setting allows you to turn off the ActiveX opt-in prompt. The ActiveX opt-in
prevents Web sites from loading any COM object without prior approval. If a page attempts
to load a COM object that Internet Explorer has not used before, an Information bar will
appear asking the user for approval. If you enable this policy setting, the ActiveX opt-in
prompt will not appear. Internet Explorer does not ask the user for permission to load a
control, and will load the ActiveX if it passes all other internal security checks. If you
disable or do not configure this policy setting, the ActiveX opt-In prompt will appear. The
recommended state for this setting is: Disabled.
Rationale:
If the user were to enable this setting the ActiveX opt-in prompt would be disabled and
malicious ActiveX controls could be executed without the user's knowledge.
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Audit:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\Ext\NoFirsttimep
rompt
Remediation:
Disabled.

Explorer\Turn off ActiveX opt-in prompt
Impact:
Enabling this setting would allow the possibility of malicious ActiveX controls to be
executed without the user's knowledge.
Default Value:
Not Configured
References:
1. CCE-20671-4
2.5 Set 'Do not allow ActiveX controls to run in Protected Mode when
Enhanced Protected Mode is enabled' to 'Enabled' (Scored)
 Level 1
Description:
This policy setting prevents ActiveX controls from running in Protected Mode when
Enhanced Protected Mode is enabled. When a user has an ActiveX control installed that is
not compatible with Enhanced Protected Mode and a website attempts to load the control,
Internet Explorer notifies the user and gives the option to run the website in regular
Protected Mode. This policy setting disables this notification and forces all websites to run
in Enhanced Protected Mode.
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When Enhanced Protected Mode is enabled, and a user encounters a website that attempts
to load an ActiveX control that is not compatible with Enhanced Protected Mode, Internet
Explorer notifies the user and gives the option to disable Enhanced Protected Mode for that
particular website.
If you enable this policy setting, Internet Explorer will not give the user the option to
disable Enhanced Protected Mode. All Protected Mode websites will run in Enhanced
Protected Mode.
If you disable or do not configure this policy setting, Internet Explorer notifies users and
provides an option to run websites with incompatible ActiveX controls in regular Protected
Mode. This is the default behavior. The recommended state for this setting is: Enabled.
Rationale:

Audit:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Policies\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Main\DisableEPMCompat
Remediation:
Enabled.

Explorer\Internet Control Panel\Advanced Page\Do not allow ActiveX controls to run in
Protected Mode when Enhanced Protected Mode is enabled
Impact:
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When Enhanced Protected Mode is enabled, and a user encounters a website that attempts
to load an ActiveX control that is not compatible with Enhanced Protected Mode, Internet
Explorer notifies the user and gives the option to disable Enhanced Protected Mode for that
particular website.
If you enable this policy setting, Internet Explorer will not give the user the option to
disable Enhanced Protected Mode. All Protected Mode websites will run in Enhanced
Protected Mode.
If you disable or do not configure this policy setting, Internet Explorer notifies users and
provides an option to run websites with incompatible ActiveX controls in regular Protected
Mode. This is the default behavior.
References:
1. CCE-19663-4
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3 Browsing History
3.1 Configure 'Prevent deleting websites that the user has visited' (Not
Scored)
 Level 1
Description:
This policy setting prevents the user from deleting the history of websites that he or she
has visited. This feature is available in the Delete Browsing History dialog box.
If you enable this policy setting, websites that the user has visited are preserved when he
or she clicks Delete. If you disable this policy setting, websites that the user has visited are
deleted when he or she clicks Delete. If you do not configure this policy setting, the user
can choose whether to delete or preserve visited websites when he or she clicks Delete.
If the "Prevent access to Delete Browsing History" policy setting is enabled, this policy
setting is enabled by default. Configure this setting in a manner that is consistent with
security and operational requirements of your organization.
Rationale:
If users can delete websites they have visited it will be easier for them to hide evidence that
they have visited unauthorized sites.
Audit:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Policies\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Privacy\CleanHistory
Remediation:
Not Configured.

Explorer\Delete Browsing History\Prevent deleting websites that the user has visited
Impact:
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If you enable this policy setting, websites that the user has visited are preserved when he
or she clicks Delete.
If you disable this policy setting, websites that the user has visited are deleted when he or
she clicks Delete.
If you do not configure this policy setting, the user can choose whether to delete or
preserve visited websites when he or she clicks Delete.
setting is enabled by default.
References:
1. CCE-20278-8
3.2 Configure 'Prevent Deleting Cookies' (Not Scored)

 Level 1
Description:
This policy setting is used to prevent users from deleting cookies. This feature is available
in the Delete Browsing History dialog box. If you enable this policy setting, cookies will be
preserved when the user clicks Delete. If you disable this policy setting, cookies will be
deleted when the user clicks Delete. If you do not configure this policy setting, the user will
be able to choose whether to delete or preserve cookies when the user clicks Delete. If the
"Turn off Delete Browsing History functionality" policy is enabled, this policy is enabled by
default. Configure this setting in a manner that is consistent with security and operational
requirements of your organization.
Rationale:
If a user is suspected of visiting unauthorized website the information stored in the data
cookies could be useful in verifying where he or she went online.
Audit:
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HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Policies\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Privacy\CleanCookies
Remediation:
Not Configured.

Explorer\Delete Browsing History\Prevent Deleting Cookies
Impact:
If you enable this policy setting, users will not be able to delete cookies. If you disable or do
not configure this policy setting, users will be able to delete cookies.
Default Value:
Disabled
References:
1. CCE-20367-9
3.3 Set 'Disable "Configuring History"' to 'Enabled' (Scored)

 Level 1
Description:
This setting specifies the number of days that Internet Explorer keeps track of the pages
viewed in the History List. The recommended state for this setting is: Enabled.
Rationale:
If users can delete their browsing history it will be easier for them to hide evidence that
Audit:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Policies\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Control Panel\History
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Remediation:
Enabled.

Explorer\Delete Browsing History\Disable "Configuring History"
Impact:
If you enable this policy setting, a user cannot set the number of days that Internet Explorer
keeps track of the pages viewed in the History List. You must specify the number of days
that Internet Explorer keeps track of the pages viewed in the History List. Users will not be
able to delete browsing history. If you disable or do not configure this policy setting, a user
can set the number of days that Internet Explorer keeps track of the pages viewed in the
History List and has the freedom to Delete Browsing History.
Default Value:
Disabled
References:
1. CCE-20284-6
3.4 Set 'Days to keep pages in History' to '40' (Scored)

 Level 1
Description:
This setting specifies the number of days that Internet Explorer keeps track of the pages
viewed in the History List. The recommended state for this setting is: 40.
Rationale:
The browsing history may increase an organization' s ability to determine if a user

has visited unauthorized sites.
Audit:
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HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Policies\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Internet
Settings\Url History\DaysToKeep
Remediation:
40.

Explorer\Delete Browsing History\Disable "Configuring History": Days to keep pages in
History
Impact:
If you enable this policy setting, a user cannot set the number of days that Internet Explorer
keeps track of the pages viewed in the History List. You must specify the number of days
that Internet Explorer keeps track of the pages viewed in the History List. Users will not be
able to delete browsing history. If you disable or do not configure this policy setting, a user
can set the number of days that Internet Explorer keeps track of the pages viewed in the
History List and has the freedom to Delete Browsing History.
Default Value:
Not Configured
3.5 Configure 'Prevent Deleting Temporary Internet Files' (Not Scored)

 Level 1
Description:
This policy setting is used to prevent users from deleting temporary Internet files. This
feature is available in the Delete Browsing History dialog box. If you enable this policy
setting, temporary Internet files will be preserved when the user clicks Delete. If you
disable this policy setting, temporary Internet files will be deleted when the user clicks
Delete. If you do not configure this policy setting, the user will be able to choose whether to
delete or preserve temporary Internet files when the user clicks Delete. If the Turn off
Delete Browsing History functionality policy is enabled, this policy is enabled by
default. Configure this setting in a manner that is consistent with security and operational
Rationale:
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If a user is suspected of visiting unauthorized website the information stored in the
Temporary Internet Files folder could be useful in verifying where he or she went online.
Audit:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Policies\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Privacy\CleanTIF
Remediation:
Not Configured.

Explorer\Delete Browsing History\Prevent Deleting Temporary Internet Files
Impact:
If you enable this policy setting, users will not be able to delete temporary Internet files. If
you disable or do not configure this policy setting, users will be able to delete temporary
Internet files.
Default Value:
Not Configured
References:
1. CCE-20619-3
3.6 Configure 'Allow deleting browsing history on exit' (Not Scored)

 Level 1
Description:
This policy setting allows the automatic deletion of specified items when the last browser
window closes. The preferences selected in the Delete Browsing History dialog box (such as
deleting temporary Internet files, cookies, history, form data, and passwords) are applied,
and those items are deleted.
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If you enable this policy setting, deleting browsing history on exit is turned on.
If you disable this policy setting, deleting browsing history on exit is turned off.
If you do not configure this policy setting, it can be configured on the General tab in
Internet Options.
setting has no effect. Configure this setting in a manner that is consistent with security and
operational requirements of your organization.
Rationale:
If users can delete their browsing history it will be easier for them to hide evidence that
Audit:
Explorer\Privacy\ClearBrowsingHistoryOnExit
Remediation:
Not Configured.

Explorer\Delete Browsing History\Allow deleting browsing history on exit
Impact:
If you enable this policy setting, deleting browsing history on exit is turned on.
If you disable this policy setting, deleting browsing history on exit is turned off.
If you do not configure this policy setting, it can be configured on the General tab in
Internet Options.
setting has no effect.
References:
1. CCE-20463-6
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3.7 Set 'Prevent access to Delete Browsing History' to 'Enabled' (Scored)
 Level 1
Description:
This policy setting prevents the user from performing actions which will delete browsing
history. For more information on browsing history Group Policy settings, see "Group
Policies Settings in Internet Explorer 10" in the TechNet technical library.
If you enable this policy setting, the user cannot access the Delete Browsing History dialog
box. Starting with Windows 8, users cannot click the Delete Browsing History button on the
Settings charm.
If you disable or do not configure this policy setting, the user can access the Delete
Browsing History dialog box. Starting with Windows 8, users can click the Delete Browsing
History button on the Settings charm. The recommended state for this setting is: Enabled.
Rationale:
If users can delete their browsing history it will be easier for them to hide evidence of
visiting unauthorized sites.
Audit:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Policies\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Control
Panel\DisableDeleteBrowsingHistory
Remediation:
Enabled.

Explorer\Delete Browsing History\Prevent access to Delete Browsing History
Impact:
If you enable this policy setting, the user cannot access the Delete Browsing History dialog
box. Starting with Windows 8, users cannot click the Delete Browsing History button on the
Settings charm.
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If you disable or do not configure this policy setting, the user can access the Delete
Browsing History dialog box. Starting with Windows 8, users can click the Delete Browsing
History button on the Settings charm.
References:
1. CCE-20303-4
3.8 Configure 'Turn off InPrivate Browsing' (Not Scored)

 Level 1
Description:
This policy setting allows you to disable the InPrivate Browsing feature. InPrivate
Browsing prevents Internet Explorer from storing data about a user's browsing session.
This includes cookies, temporary Internet files, history, and other data. If you enable this
policy setting, InPrivate Browsing will be disabled. If you disable this policy setting,
InPrivate Browsing will be available for use. If you do not configure this setting, InPrivate
Browsing can be turned on or off through the registry. Configure this setting in a manner
that is consistent with security and operational requirements of your organization.
Rationale:
InPrivate browsing can increase the privacy of a user who is browsing websites, disabling
this setting ensures that users will be able to use the feature. On the other hand,
organizations that closely monitor their users online activities may wish to disable
InPrivate browsing to ensure they are able to collect detailed information.
Audit:
Explorer\Privacy\EnableInPrivateBrowsing
Remediation:
Not Configured.
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Explorer\Privacy\Turn off InPrivate Browsing
References:
1. CCE-20571-6
4 Component Updates
4.1 Configure 'URL to be displayed for updates:' (Not Scored)

 Level 1
Description:
This policy setting prevents the user from changing the default URL for checking updates to
Internet Explorer and Internet Tools. If you enable this policy setting, the user cannot
change the URL that is displayed for checking updates to Internet Explorer and Internet
Tools. You must specify this URL. If you disable or do not configure this policy setting, the
user can change the URL that is displayed for checking updates to Internet Explorer and
Internet Tools. Configure this setting in a manner that is consistent with security and
operational requirements of your organization.
Rationale:
Enabling this setting will ensure that updates are downloaded from sites specified by the
organization's information technology team.
Audit:
Explorer\Main\Update_Check_Page
Remediation:
Not Configured.
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Explorer\Internet Settings\Component Updates\Periodic check for updates to Internet
Explorer and Internet Tools\Prevent changing the URL for checking updates to Internet
Explorer and Internet Tools: URL to be displayed for updates:
Impact:
If you enable this policy setting, the user cannot change the URL that is displayed for
checking updates to Internet Explorer and Internet Tools. You must specify this URL. If you
disable or do not configure this policy setting, the user can change the URL that is displayed
for checking updates to Internet Explorer and Internet Tools.
References:
1. CCE-21349-6
4.2 Set 'Update check interval (in days):' to 'Enabled:30' (Scored)

 Level 1
Description:
This policy setting prevents the user from specifying the update check interval. The default
value is 30 days. If you enable this policy setting, the user cannot specify the update check
interval. You must specify the update check interval. If you disable or do not configure this
policy setting, the user can specify the update check interval. The recommended state for
this setting is: Enabled:30.
Rationale:
Enabling this setting will ensure that updates are downloaded at the interval specified by
the organization's information technology team.
Audit:
Explorer\Main\Update_Check_Interval
Remediation:
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Enabled.

Explorer\Internet Settings\Component Updates\Periodic check for updates to Internet
Explorer and Internet Tools\Prevent specifying the update check interval (in days)
Then set the Update check interval (in days): option to 30.
Impact:
If you enable this policy setting, the user cannot specify the update check interval. You must
specify the update check interval. If you disable or do not configure this policy setting, the
user can specify the update check interval.
References:
1. CCE-20165-7
4.3 Configure 'Automatically check for Internet Explorer updates' (Not

Scored)
 Level 1
Description:
This policy setting allows you to manage whether Internet Explorer checks the Internet for
newer versions. When Internet Explorer is set to do this, the checks occur approximately
every 30 days, and users are prompted to install new versions as they become available.
Configure this setting in a manner that is consistent with security and operational
Rationale:
If you enable this policy setting, Internet Explorer checks the Internet for a new version
approximately every 30 days and prompts the user to download new versions when they
are available. Newer versions might not comply to the Internet Explorer version
Audit:
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HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Policies\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Main\NoUpdateCheck
Remediation:
Not Configured.

Explorer\Internet Control Panel\Advanced Page\Automatically check for Internet
Explorer updates
Impact:
If you enable this policy setting, Internet Explorer checks the Internet for a new version
approximately every 30 days and prompts the user to download new versions when they
are available. If you disable this policy setting, Internet Explorer does not check the
Internet for new versions of the browser, so does not prompt users to install them.
Default Value:
Disabled
References:
1. CCE-21111-0
4.4 Configure 'Install new versions of Internet Explorer automatically'

(Not Scored)
 Level 1
Description:
This policy setting configures Internet Explorer to automatically install new versions of
Internet Explorer when they are available. If you enable this policy setting, automatic
upgrade of Internet Explorer will be turned on.
If you disable this policy setting, automatic upgrade of Internet Explorer will be turned
off. If you do not configure this policy, users can turn on or turn off automatic updates from
the About Internet Explorer dialog. Configure this setting in a manner that is consistent
with security and operational requirements of your organization.
Rationale:
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There's no known vulnerability at this time, but organizations that manage software and
patches may want to disable the setting.
Audit:
Explorer\Main\EnableAutoUpgrade
Remediation:
Not Configured.

Explorer\Install new versions of Internet Explorer automatically
References:
1. CCE-20456-0
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5 Certificates and Protocols
5.1 Set 'Turn off Encryption Support' to 'Use TLS 1.1 and TLS 1.2' (Scored)
 Level 1
Description:
This policy setting allows you to turn off support for Transport Layer Security (TLS) 1.0,
TLS 1.1, TLS 1.2, Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) 2.0 or SSL 3.0 in the browser. TLS and SSL are
protocols for protecting communication between the browser and the target server. When
the browser attempts to set up a protected communication with the target server, the
browser and server negotiate which protocol and version to use. The browser and server
attempt to match each other’s list of supported protocols and versions and pick the most
preferred match. If you enable this policy setting, the browser will or will not negotiate an
encryption tunnel with the encryption methods you select through the drop down list. If
you disable or do not configure this policy setting, the user can select which encryption
method the browser will support. The recommended state for this settings is Use TLS 1.1
and TLS 1.2. Only use TLS 1.2 also conforms with this guidance.
Rationale:
Risk is reduced by preventing Internet Explorer from communicating over protocols, such
as SSL v2.0 and SSL v3.0, that suffer from known practical attacks.
Audit:
Settings\SecureProtocols
Remediation:
Use TLS 1.1 and TLS 1.2

Explorer\Internet Control Panel\Advanced Page\Turn off Encryption Support: Secure
Protocol combinations
Impact:
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Determines the encryption protocols that may be used. One of the designated protocols
needs to be active on both sides of the connection for encryption to function correctly.
Default Value:
Disabled
References:
1. CCE-20309-1
5.2 Set 'Check for server certificate revocation' to 'Enabled' (Scored)

 Level 1
Description:
This policy setting allows you to manage whether Internet Explorer will check revocation
status of servers' certificates. Certificates are revoked when they have been compromised
or are no longer valid, and this option protects users from submitting confidential data to a
site that may be fraudulent or not secure.
If you enable this policy setting, Internet Explorer will check to see if server certificates
have been revoked. If you disable this policy setting, Internet Explorer will not check server
certificates to see if they have been revoked. If you do not configure this policy setting,
Internet Explorer will not check server certificates to see if they have been revoked. The
recommended state for this setting is: Enabled.
Rationale:
Certificates are revoked when they have been compromised or are no longer valid. If
Internet Explorer does not check for the status of a certificate, users and this option
protects users could inadvertently submit confidential data to a site that may be fraudulent
or not secure.
Audit:
Settings\CertificateRevocation
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Remediation:
Enabled.

Explorer\Internet Control Panel\Advanced Page\Check for server certificate revocation
Impact:
If you enable this policy setting, Internet Explorer will check to see if server certificates
have been revoked. If you disable this policy setting, Internet Explorer will not check server
certificates to see if they have been revoked.
Default Value:
Disabled
References:
1. CCE-21390-0
5.3 Set 'Check for signatures on downloaded programs' to 'Enabled'

(Scored)
 Level 1
Description:
This policy setting allows you to manage whether Internet Explorer checks for digital
signatures (which identifies the publisher of signed software and verifies it hasn't been
modified or tampered with) on user computers before downloading executable programs.
If you enable this policy setting, Internet Explorer will check the digital signatures of
executable programs and display their identities before downloading them to user
computers.
If you disable this policy setting, Internet Explorer will not check the digital signatures of
executable programs or display their identities before downloading them to user
computers.
If you do not configure this policy, Internet Explorer will not check the digital signatures of
37 | P a g e
executable programs or display their identities before downloading them to user
computers. The recommended state for this setting is: Enabled.
Rationale:
Although digitally signing software does not guarantee that it includes no malware it does
reduce the risk and it provides another potential path of investigation should the software
include a dangerous payload.
Audit:
Explorer\Download\CheckExeSignatures
Remediation:
Enabled.

Explorer\Internet Control Panel\Advanced Page\Check for signatures on downloaded
programs
References:
1. CCE-20081-6
5.4 Set 'Turn on certificate address mismatch warning' to 'Enabled'

(Scored)
 Level 1
Description:
This policy setting allows you to turn on the certificate address mismatch security warning.
When this policy setting is turned on, the user is warned when visiting Secure HTTP
(HTTPS) websites that present certificates issued for a different website address. This
warning helps prevent spoofing attacks. If you enable this policy setting, the certificate
address mismatch warning always appears. If you disable or do not configure this policy
setting, the user can choose whether the certificate address mismatch warning appears (by
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using the Advanced page in the Internet Control panel). The recommended state for this
Rationale:
When this policy setting is turned on, the user is warned when visiting Secure HTTP
(HTTPS) websites that present certificates issued for a different website address, which
may help prevent spoofing attacks.
Audit:
Settings\WarnOnBadCertRecving
Remediation:
Enabled.

Explorer\Internet Control Panel\Security Page\Turn on certificate address mismatch
warning
References:
1. CCE-20297-8
5.5 Set 'Prevent ignoring certificate errors' to 'Enabled' (Scored)

 Level 1
Description:
When a user experiences Secure Socket Layer/Transport Layer Security (SSL/TLS)

certificate errors such as "expired," "revoked," or "name mismatch," Internet Explorer
blocks the user's ability to continue browsing the Web site. The recommended state for this
Rationale:
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Users who ignore certificate errors are more likely to visit unauthorized sites or sites that
host malicious content.
Audit:
Settings\PreventIgnoreCertErrors
Remediation:
Enabled.

Explorer\Internet Control Panel\Prevent ignoring certificate errors
Impact:
If you enable this policy setting, the user is not permitted to continue browsing the Web
site. If you disable this policy setting or do not configure it, the user may elect to ignore
certificate errors and continue browsing the Web site.
Default Value:
Disabled
References:
1. CCE-20747-2
5.6 Set 'Disable changing certificate settings' to 'Enabled' (Scored)

 Level 1
Description:
This policy setting removes a user's ability to change certificate settings in Internet
Explorer. Certificates are used to verify the identity of software publishers. If you enable
this policy setting, the certificate settings in the Certificates area of the Content tab in the
Internet Options dialog box are dimmed. This policy setting also removes a user's ability to
change settings that are configured through Group Policy.
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Note: When this policy setting is enabled, users can still double-click the software
publishing certificate (.spc) file to run the Certificate Manager Import Wizard. This wizard
enables users to import and configure settings for certificates from software publishers
that are not already configured in Internet Explorer.
Note: The Disable the Content page setting removes the Content tab from Internet Explorer
in Control Panel and takes precedence over this Disable changing certificate settings
configuration option. If the former setting is enabled, the latter setting is ignored. The
Disable the Content page setting located in \User Configuration\Administrative
Templates\Windows Components\Internet Explorer\Internet Control Panel in the
Group Policy Object Editor. The recommended state for this setting is: Enabled.
Rationale:
Users could import new certificates, remove approved certificates, or change settings for
previously configured ones. Such occurrences could cause approved applications to fail, or
unapproved software to be executed.
Audit:
HKEY_USERS\<SID>\Software\Policies\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Control
Panel\Certificates
Remediation:
Enabled.

Explorer\Disable changing certificate settings
Impact:
Users will be unable to change the certificate settings.
Default Value:
Disabled
References:
1. CCE-21163-1
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6 Internet Communication Management
6.1 Set 'Turn off browser geolocation' to 'Enabled' (Scored)
 Level 1
Description:
This policy setting allows you to disable browser geolocation support. This will prevent
websites from requesting location data about the user. If you enable this policy setting,
browser geolocation support is turned off. If you disable this policy setting, browser
geolocation support is turned on. If you do not configure this policy setting, browser
geolocation support can be turned on or off in Internet Options on the Privacy tab. The
Rationale:
Some applications and websites may share location information with servers that the user
visits, some organizations may be concerned that this location information could be
exploited by a malicious user who has access to such a server.
Audit:
Explorer\Geolocation\PolicyDisableGeolocation
Remediation:
Enabled.

Explorer\Turn off browser geolocation
References:
1. CCE-21242-3
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6.2 Configure 'Turn off URL Suggestions' (Not Scored)
 Level 1
Description:
This policy setting turns off URL Suggestions. URL Suggestions allow users to autocomplete
URLs in the address bar based on common URLs. The list of common URLs is stored locally
and is updated once a month. No user data is sent over the internet by this feature. If you
enable this policy setting, URL Suggestions will be turned off. Users will not be able to turn
on URL Suggestions. If you disable this policy setting, URL Suggestions will be turned on.
Users will not be able to turn off URL Suggestions. If you do not configure this policy
setting, URL Suggestions will be turned on. Users will be able to turn on or turn off URL
Suggestions in the Internet Options dialog. By default, URL Suggestions are turned on.
Configure this setting in a manner that is consistent with security and operational
Rationale:
When enabled this feature will transmit some usage information to Microsoft,
organizations may want to prevent the sharing of this information with Microsoft in order
to protect their business data.
Audit:
Explorer\DomainSuggestion\Enabled
Remediation:
Not Configured.

Explorer\Internet Settings\AutoComplete\Turn off URL Suggestions
References:
1. CCE-20457-8
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6.3 Configure 'Prevent participation in the Customer Experience
Improvement Program' (Not Scored)
 Level 1
Description:
This policy setting prevents users from participating in the Customer Experience
Improvement Program (CEIP). If you enable this policy setting, it prevents users from
participating in the CEIP and removes the "Customer Feedback Options" menu item from
the Help menu. If you disable this policy setting, users must participate in the CEIP. It also
removes the "Customer Feedback Options" menu item from the Help menu. If you do not
configure this policy setting, users can choose to participate in the CEIP. Configure this
setting in a manner that is consistent with security and operational requirements of your
organization.
Rationale:
When enabled this feature will transmit some usage information to Microsoft,
organizations may want to prevent the sharing of this information with Microsoft in order
to protect their business data.
Audit:
Explorer\SQM\DisableCustomerImprovementProgram
Remediation:
Not Configured.

Explorer\Prevent participation in the Customer Experience Improvement Program
References:
1. CCE-20146-7
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6.4 Configure 'Turn on Suggested Sites' (Not Scored)
 Level 1
Description:
This policy setting controls the Suggested Sites feature, which recommends sites based on
the user’s browsing activity. Suggested Sites reports a user’s browsing history to Microsoft
to suggest sites the user might want to visit. If you enable this policy setting, the user will
not be prompted to enable the Suggested Sites. The user’s browsing history will be sent to
produce suggestions. If you disable this policy setting, the entry points and functionality
associated with this feature will be disabled. If you do not configure this policy setting,
users will able to enable and disable the Suggested Sites feature. Configure this setting in a
manner that is consistent with security and operational requirements of your organization.
Rationale:
Suggested Sites reports a user’s browsing history to Microsoft to suggest sites the user
might want to visit, organizations may want to prevent the sharing of this information with
Microsoft in order to protect their business data.
Audit:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Policies\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Suggested
Sites\Enabled
Remediation:
Not Configured.

Explorer\Turn on Suggested Sites
References:
1. CCE-21373-6
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7 Internet Explorer Process Security Features
7.1 Set 'Restrict ActiveX Install' to 'Enabled' (Scored)
 Level 1
Description:
This policy setting provides the ability to block ActiveX control installation prompts for
Internet Explorer processes. The recommended state for this setting is: Enabled.
Rationale:
Users often choose to install software such as ActiveX controls that are not permitted by
their organization’s security policy. Such software can pose significant security and privacy
risks to networks.
Audit:
prescribed.
Remediation:
Enabled.

Explorer\Security Features\Restrict ActiveX Install\Internet Explorer Processes
Impact:
If you enable this policy setting, prompts for ActiveX control installations will be blocked
for Internet Explorer processes. If you disable this policy setting, prompts for ActiveX
control installations will not be blocked and these prompts will be displayed to users.
Note: This policy setting also blocks users from installing authorized legitimate ActiveX
controls that will interfere with important system components like Windows Update. If you
enable this policy setting, make sure to implement some alternate way to deploy security
updates such as Windows Server Update Services (WSUS).
Default Value:
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Enabled
References:
1. CCE-20917-1
7.2 Set 'Scripted Window Security Restrictions' to 'Enabled' (Scored)

 Level 1
Description:
Internet Explorer allows scripts to programmatically open, resize, and reposition windows
of various types. The Window Restrictions security feature restricts popup windows and
prohibits scripts from displaying windows in which the title and status bars are not visible
to the user or obfuscate other Windows' title and status bars. If you enable this policy
setting, popup windows and other restrictions apply for File Explorer and Internet
Explorer processes. If you disable this policy setting, scripts can continue to create popup
windows and windows that obfuscate other windows. If you do not configure this policy
setting, popup windows and other restrictions apply for File Explorer and Internet
Explorer processes. The recommended state for this setting is: Enabled.
Rationale:
The Internet Explorer Processes (Scripted Window Security Restrictions) setting restricts
pop-up windows and does not allow scripts to display windows in which the title and
status bars are not visible to the user or that hide other windows’ title and status bars.
When enabled, this policy setting help make it difficult for malicious Web sites to control
your Internet Explorer windows or fool users into clicking the wrong window.
Audit:
prescribed.
Remediation:
Enabled.
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Explorer\Security Features\Scripted Window Security Restrictions\Internet Explorer
Processes
Default Value:
Enabled
References:
1. CCE-21275-3
7.3 Set 'Mime Sniffing Safety Feature' to 'Enabled' (Scored)

 Level 1
Description:
MIME sniffing is a process that examines the content of a MIME file to determine its
context—whether it is a data file, an executable file, or some other type of file. This policy
setting determines whether Internet Explorer MIME sniffing will prevent promotion of a
file of one type to a more dangerous file type.
Note: This policy setting works in conjunction with, but does not replace, the Consistent
MIME Handling settings. The recommended state for this setting is: Enabled.
Rationale:
MIME file-type spoofing is a potential threat to your organization. It is recommended that

you ensure these files are consistently handled to help prevent malicious file downloads
that may infect your network.
Audit:
prescribed.
Remediation:
Enabled.

Explorer\Security Features\Mime Sniffing Safety Feature\Internet Explorer Processes
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Impact:
When set to Enabled, MIME sniffing will not promote a file of one type to a more dangerous
file type. If you disable this policy setting, MIME sniffing configures Internet Explorer
processes to allow promotion of a file from one type to a more dangerous file type. For
example, a text file could be promoted to an executable file, which is dangerous because
any code in the supposed text file would be executed.
Default Value:
Enabled
References:
1. CCE-21122-7
7.4 Set 'Notification bar' to 'Enabled' (Scored)

 Level 1
Description:
This policy setting allows you to manage whether the Notification bar is displayed for
Internet Explorer processes when file or code installs are restricted. By default, the
Notification bar is displayed for Internet Explorer processes. If you enable this policy
setting, the Notification bar will be displayed for Internet Explorer Processes. If you
disable this policy setting, the Notification bar will not be displayed for Internet Explorer
processes. If you do not configure this policy setting, the Notification bar will be displayed
for Internet Explorer Processes. The recommended state for this setting is: Enabled.
Rationale:
There's no known vulnerability at this time, however information displayed in the

Notification Bar may help users to understand why files or code installs are restricted.
Audit:
prescribed.
Remediation:
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Enabled.

Explorer\Security Features\Notification bar\Internet Explorer Processes
Default Value:
Enabled
References:
1. CCE-19410-0
7.5 Set 'MK Protocol Security Restriction' to 'Enabled' (Scored)

 Level 1
Description:
The MK Protocol Security Restriction policy setting reduces attack surface area by
preventing the MK protocol. Resources hosted on the MK protocol will fail. If you enable
this policy setting, the MK Protocol is prevented for File Explorer and Internet Explorer,
and resources hosted on the MK protocol will fail. If you disable this policy setting,
applications can use the MK protocol API. Resources hosted on the MK protocol will work
for the File Explorer and Internet Explorer processes. If you do not configure this policy
setting, the MK Protocol is prevented for File Explorer and Internet Explorer, and resources
hosted on the MK protocol will fail. The recommended state for this setting is: Enabled.
Rationale:
Because the MK protocol is not widely used, it should be blocked wherever it is not needed.
Audit:
prescribed.
Remediation:
Enabled.
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Explorer\Security Features\MK Protocol Security Restriction\Internet Explorer
Processes
Default Value:
Enabled
References:
1. CCE-21096-3
7.6 Set 'Consistent Mime Handling' to 'Enabled' (Scored)

 Level 1
Description:
Internet Explorer uses Multipurpose Internet Mail Extensions (MIME) data to determine
file handling procedures for files that are received through a Web server. The Consistent
MIME Handling setting determines whether Internet Explorer requires that all file type
information that is provided by Web servers be consistent. For example, if the MIME type
of a file is text/plain but the MIME data indicates that the file is really an executable file,
Internet Explorer changes its extension to reflect this executable status. This capability
helps ensure that executable code cannot masquerade as other types of data that may be
trusted. The recommended state for this setting is: Enabled.
Rationale:
MIME file type spoofing is a potential threat to your organization. You should ensure that
these files are consistent and properly labeled to help prevent malicious file downloads
that may infect your network.
Note: This policy setting works in conjunction with, but does not replace, the MIME Sniffing
Safety Features settings.
Audit:
prescribed.
Remediation:
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Enabled.

Explorer\Security Features\Consistent Mime Handling\Internet Explorer Processes
Impact:
If you enable this policy setting, Internet Explorer examines all received files and enforces
consistent MIME data for them. If you disable or do not configure this policy setting,
Internet Explorer does not require consistent MIME data for all received files and will use
the MIME data that is provided by the file.
Default Value:
Enabled
References:
1. CCE-21083-1
7.7 Set 'Restrict File Download' to 'Enabled' (Scored)

 Level 1
Description:
This setting can be used to suppress file download prompts that are not user-initiated in
Internet Explorer. If you configure the Internet Explorer Processes (Restrict File
Download) setting to Enabled, file download prompts that are not user-initiated are
blocked for Internet Explorer processes. If you configure this policy setting to Disabled, file
download prompts will occur that are not user-initiated for Internet Explorer processes.
The recommended state for this setting is: Enabled.
Rationale:
In certain circumstances, Web sites can initiate file download prompts without interaction
from users. This technique can allow Web sites to put unauthorized files on a user’s hard
disk drive if they click the wrong button and accept the download.
Audit:
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prescribed.
Remediation:
Enabled.

Explorer\Security Features\Restrict File Download\Internet Explorer Processes
Impact:
None. There is no legitimate reason for a Web site to start transferring a file to a user's
workstation without a user request to do so.
Default Value:
Enabled
References:
1. CCE-20440-4
7.8 Set 'Protection From Zone Elevation' to 'Enabled' (Scored)

 Level 1
Description:
Internet Explorer places restrictions on each Web page that it opens based on the security
zone from which it originates. The recommended state for this setting is: Enabled.
Rationale:
These restrictions depend on the location of the Web page (such as Internet zone, Intranet
zone, or Local Machine zone). Web pages on a local computer have the fewest security
restrictions and reside in the Local Machine zone, malicious Web pages may attempt to
elevate themselves from their current zone into another zone with higher privileges.
Audit:
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prescribed.
Remediation:
Enabled.

Explorer\Security Features\Protection From Zone Elevation\Internet Explorer Processes
Impact:
If you enable the Internet Explorer Processes (Zone Elevation Protection) setting, any zone
can be protected from zone elevation by Internet Explorer processes. This approach helps
prevent content that runs in one zone from gaining the elevated privileges of another zone.
If you disable this policy setting, no zone receives such protection for Internet Explorer
processes.
Default Value:
Enabled
References:
1. CCE-20385-1
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8 Security Zones
8.1 Internet Zone
8.1.1 Set 'Java permissions' to 'Enabled:Disable Java' (Scored)
 Level 1
Description:
This policy setting allows you to manage permissions for Java applets. If you enable this
policy setting, you can choose options from the drop-down box. Select Custom to control
permissions settings individually. Low Safety enables applets to perform all
operations. Medium Safety enables applets to run in their sandbox (an area in memory
outside of which the program cannot make calls), plus capabilities like scratch space (a safe
and secure storage area on the client computer) and user-controlled file I/O. High
Safety enables applets to run in their sandbox. Disable Java to prevent any applets from
running. If you disable this policy setting, Java applets cannot run. If you do not configure
this policy setting, the permission is set to High Safety. The recommended state for this
setting is: Enabled:Disable Java.
Rationale:
Java applications could contain malicious code, sites located in this security zone are more
likely to be hosted by malicious people.
Audit:
Settings\Zones\3\1C00
Remediation:
Enabled.

Explorer\Internet Control Panel\Security Page\Internet Zone\Java permissions
Then set the Java permissions option to Disable Java.
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Default Value:
High Safety
References:
1. CCE-20112-9
8.1.2 Set 'Allow paste operations via script' to 'Enabled:Disable' (Scored)

 Level 1
Description:
This policy setting allows you to manage whether scripts can perform a clipboard
operation (for example, cut, copy, and paste) in the security zone. The recommended state
for this setting is: Enabled:Disable.
Rationale:
A malicious script could use the clipboard in an undesirable manner, for example, if the
user had recently copied confidential information to the clipboard while editing a
document a malicious script could harvest that information. It might be possible to exploit
other vulnerabilities in order to send the harvested data to the attacker.
Audit:
Settings\Zones\3\1407
Remediation:
Enabled.

Explorer\Internet Control Panel\Security Page\Internet Zone\Allow cut, copy or paste
operations from the clipboard via script
Then set the Allow paste operations via script option to Disable.
Impact:
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If you enable this policy setting, a script can perform a clipboard operation. If you select
Prompt in the drop-down box, users are queried as to whether to perform clipboard
operations. If you disable this policy setting, a script cannot perform a clipboard operation.
If you do not configure this policy setting, a script cannot perform a clipboard operation.
Default Value:
Enabled
References:
1. CCE-20590-6
8.1.3 Set 'Protected Mode' to 'Enabled:Enable' (Scored)

 Level 1
Description:
Protected mode protects Internet Explorer from exploited vulnerabilities by reducing the
locations Internet Explorer can write to in the registry and the file system. If you enable
this policy setting, Protected Mode will be turned on. Users will not be able to turn off
protected mode. If you disable this policy setting, Protected Mode will be turned off. It will
revert to Internet Explorer 6 behavior that allows for Internet Explorer to write to the
registry and the file system. Users will not be able to turn on protected mode. If you do not
configure this policy, users will be able to turn on or off protected mode. The recommended
state for this setting is: Enabled:Enable.
Rationale:
locations Internet Explorer can write to in the registry and the file system.
Audit:
Remediation:
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Enabled.

Explorer\Internet Control Panel\Security Page\Internet Zone\Turn on Protected Mode
Then set the Protected Mode option to Enable.
Impact:
If you enable this policy setting, Protected Mode will be turned on. Users will not be able to
turn off protected mode. If you disable this policy setting, Protected Mode will be turned
off. It will revert to Internet Explorer 6 behavior that allows for Internet Explorer to write
to the registry and the file system. Users will not be able to turn on protected mode. If you
do not configure this policy, users will be able to turn on or off protected mode.
References:
1. CCE-21337-1
8.1.4 Set 'Turn on Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) Filter' to 'Enabled:Enable'

(Scored)
 Level 1
Description:
This policy controls whether or not the Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) Filter will detect and
prevent cross-site script injections into websites in this zone. If you enable this policy
setting, the XSS Filter is turned on for sites in this zone, and the XSS Filter attempts to block
cross-site script injections. If you disable this policy setting, the XSS Filter is turned off for
sites in this zone, and Internet Explorer permits cross-site script injections. The
recommended state for this setting is: Enabled:Enable.
Rationale:
The Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) Filter will detect and prevent cross-site script injections into
websites in this zone
Audit:
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Remediation:
Enabled.

Explorer\Internet Control Panel\Security Page\Internet Zone\Turn on Cross-Site
Scripting Filter
Then set the Turn on Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) Filter option to Enable.
Impact:
If you enable this policy setting, the XSS Filter is turned on for sites in this zone, and the XSS
Filter attempts to block cross-site script injections. If you disable this policy setting, the XSS
Filter is turned off for sites in this zone, and Internet Explorer permits cross-site script
injections.
References:
1. CCE-21371-0
8.1.5 Set 'Run .NET Framework-reliant components signed with

Authenticode' to 'Enabled:Disable' (Scored)
 Level 1
Description:
This policy setting allows you to manage whether .NET Framework components that are
signed with Authenticode can be executed from Internet Explorer. These components
include managed controls referenced from an object tag and managed executables
referenced from a link. If you enable this policy setting, Internet Explorer will execute
signed managed components. If you select Prompt in the drop-down box, Internet Explorer
will prompt the user to determine whether to execute signed managed components. If you
disable this policy setting, Internet Explorer will not execute signed managed components.
If you do not configure this policy setting, Internet Explorer will execute signed managed
components. The recommended state for this setting is: Enabled:Disable.
Rationale:
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If you enable this policy setting, Internet Explorer will execute signed managed
components, it may be possible for someone to host malicious content on a website that
takes advantage of these components.
Audit:
Remediation:
Enabled.

Explorer\Internet Control Panel\Security Page\Internet Zone\Run .NET Framework-reliant
components signed with Authenticode
Then set the Run .NET Framework-reliant components signed with Authenticode
option to Disable.
Impact:
components. If you select Prompt in the drop-down box, Internet Explorer will prompt the
user to determine whether to execute signed managed components. If you disable this
policy setting, Internet Explorer will not execute signed managed components. If you do
not configure this policy setting, Internet Explorer will not execute signed managed
components.
References:
1. CCE-20062-6
8.1.6 Set 'Use Pop-up Blocker' to 'Enabled:Enable' (Scored)

 Level 1
Description:
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This policy setting allows you to manage whether unwanted pop-up windows appear. Pop-
up windows that are opened when the end user clicks a link are not blocked. The
Rationale:
Pop-up windows have been used on web sites that host malicious content to trick users
into clicking on dangerous links or to confuse users by hiding elements of the browser
interface.
Audit:
Remediation:
Enabled.

Explorer\Internet Control Panel\Security Page\Internet Zone\Use Pop-up Blocker
Then set the Use Pop-up Blocker option to Enable.
Impact:
If you enable this policy setting, many unwanted pop-up windows are prevented from
appearing. If you disable this policy setting, pop-up windows are not prevented from
appearing. If you do not configure this policy setting, many unwanted pop-up windows are
prevented from appearing.
Default Value:
Enabled
References:
1. CCE-20585-6
8.1.7 Set 'Scriptlets' to 'Enabled:Disable' (Scored)

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 Level 1
Description:
This policy setting allows you to manage whether scriptlets can be allowed. If you enable
this policy setting, users will be able to run scriptlets. If you disable this policy setting,
users will not be able to run scriptlets. If you do not configure this policy setting, a scriptlet
can be enabled or disabled by the user. The recommended state for this setting is:
Enabled:Disable.
Rationale:
Scriptlets have been exploited by malicious users in the past, one example is the malware
Exploit-MSWord.k which embedded the class ID of the Microsoft Scriptlet Component
within a Word document and the URL of a website that hosted additional malicious
software. When opened Microsoft Word would process the embedded object then
download and activate the malicious payload. This particular vulnerability was patched
several years ago but disabling this setting in untrusted zones helps mitigate against the
entire class of attacks.
Audit:
Remediation:
Enabled.

Explorer\Internet Control Panel\Security Page\Internet Zone\Allow Scriptlets
Then set the Scriptlets option to Disable.
Impact:
If you enable this policy setting, users will be able to run scriptlets. If you disable this policy
setting, users will not be able to run scriptlets. If you do not configure this policy setting, a
scriptlet can be enabled or disabled by the user.
References:
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1. CCE-20234-1
8.1.8 Set 'Only allow approved domains to use ActiveX controls without
prompt' to 'Enabled:Enable' (Scored)
 Level 1
Description:
This policy setting controls whether or not the user is prompted to allow ActiveX controls
to run on websites other than the website that installed the ActiveX control. If you enable
this policy setting, the user is prompted before ActiveX controls can run from websites in
this zone. The user can choose to allow the control to run from the current site or from all
sites. If you disable this policy setting, the user does not see the per-site ActiveX prompt,
and ActiveX controls can run from all sites in this zone. The recommended state for this
setting is: Enabled:Enable.
Rationale:
If the user were to disable the setting for the zone, malicious ActiveX controls could be
Audit:
Settings\Zones\3\120b
Remediation:
Enabled.

Explorer\Internet Control Panel\Security Page\Internet Zone\Allow only approved
domains to use ActiveX controls without prompt
Then set the Only allow approved domains to use ActiveX controls without prompt
option to Enable.
Impact:
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Disabling this setting would allow the possibility for malicious ActiveX controls to be
executed from non-approved domains within this zone without the user's knowledge.
References:
1. CCE-21053-4
8.1.9 Set 'Allow drag and drop or copy and paste files' to
'Enabled:Disable' (Scored)
 Level 1
Description:
This policy setting allows you to manage whether users can drag files or copy and paste
files from a source within the zone. The recommended state for this setting is:
Enabled:Disable.
Rationale:
Content hosted on sites located in the Restricted Sites Zone are more likely to contain
malicious payloads and therefor this feature should be blocked for this zone.
Audit:
Remediation:
Enabled.

Explorer\Internet Control Panel\Security Page\Internet Zone\Allow drag and drop or
copy and paste files
Then set the Allow drag and drop or copy and paste files option to Disable.
Impact:
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If you enable this policy setting, users can drag files or copy and paste files from this zone
automatically. If you select Prompt in the drop-down box, users are queried to choose
whether to drag or copy files from this zone. If you disable this policy setting, users are
prevented from dragging files or copying and pasting files from this zone.
Default Value:
Enabled
References:
1. CCE-20277-0
8.1.10 Set 'Run .NET Framework-reliant components not signed with

 Level 1
Description:
not signed with Authenticode can be executed from Internet Explorer. These components
referenced from a link. If you enable this policy setting, Internet Explorer will execute
unsigned managed components. If you select Prompt in the drop-down box, Internet
Explorer will prompt the user to determine whether to execute unsigned managed
components. If you disable this policy setting, Internet Explorer will not execute unsigned
managed components. If you do not configure this policy setting, Internet Explorer will
execute unsigned managed components. The recommended state for this setting is:
Enabled:Disable.
Rationale:
Unsigned components may have a greater chance of including malicious code and it is more
difficult to determine the author of the application therefore they should be avoided if
possible.
Audit:
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Remediation:
Enabled.

Explorer\Internet Control Panel\Security Page\Internet Zone\Run .NET Framework-reliant
components not signed with Authenticode
Then set the Run .NET Framework-reliant components not signed with Authenticode
option to Disable.
Impact:
If you enable this policy setting, Internet Explorer will execute unsigned managed
user to determine whether to execute unsigned managed components. If you disable this
policy setting, Internet Explorer will not execute unsigned managed components. If you do
not configure this policy setting, Internet Explorer will not execute unsigned managed
components.
References:
1. CCE-20899-1
8.1.11 Set 'Internet Explorer web browser control' to 'Enabled:Disable'

(Scored)
 Level 1
Description:
This policy setting determines whether a page can control embedded WebBrowser controls
via script. If you enable this policy setting, script access to the WebBrowser control is
allowed. If you disable this policy setting, script access to the WebBrowser control is not
allowed.
If you do not configure this policy setting, the user can enable or disable script access to the
WebBrowser control. By default, script access to the WebBrowser control is allowed only in
the Local Machine and Intranet zones. The recommended state for this setting is:
Enabled:Disable.
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Rationale:
A website hosted by a malicious person could attempt to exploit this feature. For example,
in the past there have been cross-site scripting vulnerabilities that were exploited to use
various WebBrowser controls.
Audit:
Remediation:
Enabled.

Explorer\Internet Control Panel\Security Page\Internet Zone\Allow scripting of
Internet Explorer WebBrowser controls
Then set the Internet Explorer web browser control option to Disable.
Impact:
If you enable this policy setting, script access to the WebBrowser control is allowed. If you
disable this policy setting, script access to the WebBrowser control is not allowed. If you do
not configure this policy setting, the user can enable or disable script access to the
WebBrowser control. By default, script access to the WebBrowser control is allowed only in
the Local Machine and Intranet zones.
References:
1. CCE-19537-0
8.1.12 Set 'Download unsigned ActiveX controls' to 'Enabled:Disable'

(Scored)
 Level 1
Description:
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This policy setting allows you to manage whether users may download unsigned ActiveX
controls from the zone. The recommended state for this setting is: Enabled:Disable.
Rationale:
Unsigned code is potentially harmful, especially when coming from an untrusted zone.
Audit:
Remediation:
Enabled.

Explorer\Internet Control Panel\Security Page\Internet Zone\Download unsigned ActiveX
controls
Then set the Download unsigned ActiveX controls option to Disable.
Impact:
If you enable this policy setting, users can run unsigned controls without user intervention.
If you select Prompt in the drop-down box, users are queried to choose whether to allow
the unsigned control to run. If you disable this policy setting, users cannot run unsigned
controls. If you do not configure this policy setting, users cannot run unsigned controls.
Default Value:
Disabled
References:
1. CCE-19609-7
8.1.13 Set 'Download signed ActiveX controls' to 'Enabled:Disable'

(Scored)
 Level 1
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Description:
This policy setting allows you to manage whether users may download signed ActiveX
controls from a page in the zone. The recommended state for this setting is:
Enabled:Disable.
Rationale:
Signed code is better than unsigned code in that it may be easier to determine its author,
but it is still potentially harmful, especially when coming from an untrusted zone.
Audit:
Remediation:
Enabled.

Explorer\Internet Control Panel\Security Page\Internet Zone\Download signed ActiveX
controls
Then set the Download signed ActiveX controls option to Disable.
Impact:
If you enable this policy, users can download signed controls without user intervention. If
you select Prompt in the drop-down box, users are queried whether to download controls
signed by untrusted publishers. Code signed by trusted publishers is silently downloaded.
If you Disable the policy setting, signed controls cannot be downloaded.
Default Value:
Prompt
References:
1. CCE-20704-3
8.1.14 Set 'Allow font downloads' to 'Enabled:Disable' (Scored)
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 Level 1
Description:
This policy setting allows you to manage whether pages of the zone may download HTML
fonts. The recommended state for this setting is: Enabled:Disable.
Rationale:
It is possible that a font could include malformed data that would cause Internet Explorer
to crash when it attempts to load and render the font.
Audit:
Remediation:
Enabled.

Explorer\Internet Control Panel\Security Page\Internet Zone\Allow font downloads
Then set the Allow font downloads option to Disable.
Impact:
If you enable this policy setting, HTML fonts can be downloaded automatically. If you
enable this policy setting and Prompt is selected in the drop-down box, users are queried
whether to allow HTML fonts to download. If you disable this policy setting, HTML fonts
are prevented from downloading.
Default Value:
Enabled
References:
1. CCE-21303-3
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8.1.15 Set 'Launching programs and unsafe files' to 'Enabled:Disable'
(Scored)
 Level 1
Description:
This policy setting controls whether or not the "Open File - Security Warning" message
appears when the user tries to open executable files or other potentially unsafe files (from
an intranet file share by using File Explorer, for example). If you enable this policy setting
and set the drop-down box to Enable, these files open without a security warning. If you set
the drop-down box to Prompt, a security warning appears before the files open. If you
disable this policy setting, these files do not open. If you do not configure this policy setting,
the user can configure how the computer handles these files. By default, these files are
blocked in the Restricted zone, enabled in the Intranet and Local Computer zones, and set
to prompt in the Internet and Trusted zones. The recommended state for this setting is:
Enabled:Disable.
Rationale:
The security warning may help the user to avoid some types of malware hosted on sites run
by malicious people.
Audit:
Remediation:
Enabled.

Explorer\Internet Control Panel\Security Page\Internet Zone\Show security warning for
potentially unsafe files
Then set the Launching programs and unsafe files option to Disable.
Impact:
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If you enable this policy setting and set the drop-down box to Enable, these files open
without a security warning. If you set the drop-down box to Prompt, a security warning
appears before the files open. If you disable this policy setting, these files do not open. If
you do not configure this policy setting, the user can configure how the computer handles
these files. By default, these files are blocked in the Restricted zone, enabled in the Intranet
and Local Computer zones, and set to prompt in the Internet and Trusted zones.
References:
1. CCE-21588-9
8.1.16 Set 'Automatic prompting for file downloads' to 'Enabled:Disable'

(Scored)
 Level 1
Description:
This policy setting determines whether users will be prompted for non user-initiated file
downloads. Regardless of this setting, users will receive file download dialogs for user-
initiated downloads. The recommended state for this setting is: Enabled:Disable.
Rationale:
Users may accept downloads that they did not request, those downloaded files may include
malicious code.
Audit:
Remediation:
Enabled.

Explorer\Internet Control Panel\Security Page\Internet Zone\Automatic prompting for
file downloads
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Then set the Automatic prompting for file downloads option to Disable.
Impact:
If you enable this setting, users will receive a file download dialog for automatic download
attempts. If you disable or do not configure this setting, file downloads that are not user-
initiated will be blocked, and users will see the Information Bar instead of the file
download dialog. Users can then click the Information Bar to allow the file download
prompt.
Default Value:
Disabled
References:
1. CCE-20306-7
8.1.17 Set 'Allow installation of desktop items' to 'Enabled:Disable'

(Scored)
 Level 1
Description:
This policy setting allows you to manage whether users can install Active Desktop items
from this zone. The recommended state for this setting is: Enabled:Disable.
Rationale:
Active Desktop items could contain links to unauthorized websites or other undesirable
content, it is prudent to prevent users from installing desktop items from this security
zone.
Audit:
Remediation:
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Enabled.

Explorer\Internet Control Panel\Security Page\Internet Zone\Allow installation of
desktop items
Then set the Allow installation of desktop items option to Disable.
Impact:
The settings for this option are: Enabled, users can install desktop items from this zone
automatically. Prompt, users are queried to choose whether to install desktop items from
this zone. Disabled, users are prevented from installing desktop items from this zone. If you
do not configure this policy setting, users are prevented from installing desktop items from
this zone.
Default Value:
Prompt
References:
1. CCE-21150-8
8.1.18 Set 'XAML Files' to 'Enabled:Disable' (Scored)

 Level 1
Description:
This policy setting allows you to manage the loading of Extensible Application Markup
Language (XAML) files. XAML is an XML-based declarative markup language commonly
used for creating rich user interfaces and graphics that take advantage of the Windows
Presentation Foundation. If you enable this policy setting and set the drop-down box to
Enable, XAML files are automatically loaded inside Internet Explorer. The user cannot
change this behavior. If you set the drop-down box to Prompt, the user is prompted for
loading XAML files. If you disable this policy setting, XAML files are not loaded inside
Internet Explorer. The user cannot change this behavior. If you do not configure this policy
setting, the user can decide whether to load XAML files inside Internet Explorer. The
recommended state for this setting is: Enabled:Disable.
Rationale:
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Enabling loading of XAML files is a risky configuration due to the broad attack surface
exposed by the feature.
Audit:
Remediation:
Enabled.

Explorer\Internet Control Panel\Security Page\Internet Zone\Allow loading of XAML
files
Then set the XAML Files option to Disable.
Impact:
If you enable this policy setting and set the drop-down box to Enable, XAML files are
automatically loaded inside Internet Explorer. The user cannot change this behavior. If you
set the drop-down box to Prompt, the user is prompted for loading XAML files. If you
disable this policy setting, XAML files are not loaded inside Internet Explorer. The user
cannot change this behavior. If you do not configure this policy setting, the user can decide
whether to load XAML files inside Internet Explorer.
References:
1. CCE-21069-0
8.1.19 Set 'Initialize and script ActiveX controls not marked as safe' to
 Level 1
Description:
This policy setting allows you to manage ActiveX controls not marked as safe. If you enable
this policy setting, ActiveX controls are run, loaded with parameters, and scripted without
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setting object safety for untrusted data or scripts. This setting is not recommended, except
for secure and administered zones. The recommended state for this setting is:
Enabled:Disable.
Rationale:
This setting causes both unsafe and safe controls to be initialized and scripted, ignoring the
Script ActiveX controls marked safe for scripting option. This increases the risk of
malicious code being loaded and executed by the browser.
Audit:
Remediation:
Enabled.

Explorer\Internet Control Panel\Security Page\Internet Zone\Initialize and script
ActiveX controls not marked as safe
Then set the Initialize and script ActiveX controls not marked as safe option to
Disable.
Impact:
If you enable this policy setting and select Prompt in the drop-down box, users are queried
whether to allow the control to be loaded with parameters or scripted. If you disable this
policy setting, ActiveX controls that cannot be made safe are not loaded with parameters or
scripted. If you do not configure this policy setting, ActiveX controls that cannot be made
safe are not loaded with parameters or scripted.
Default Value:
Disabled
References:
1. CCE-20379-4
8.1.20 Set 'Enable MIME Sniffing' to 'Enabled:Enable' (Scored)

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 Level 1
Description:
This policy setting allows you to manage MIME sniffing for file promotion from one type to
another based on a MIME sniff. A MIME sniff is the recognition by Internet Explorer of the
file type based on a bit signature. If you enable this policy setting, the MIME Sniffing Safety
Feature will not apply in this zone. The security zone will run without the added layer of
security provided by this feature. If you disable this policy setting, the actions that may be
harmful cannot run; this Internet Explorer security feature will be turned on in this zone, as
dictated by the feature control setting for the process. If you do not configure this policy
setting, the MIME Sniffing Safety Feature will not apply in this zone. The recommended
Rationale:
The MIME Sniffing Safety Feature improves security in some scenarios by providing an
added layer of defense against potentially malicious files. The feature also helps with
compatibility issues caused by web servers that specify incorrect MIME types. Under
certain circumstances it can actually increase the risk of compromise because Internet
Explorer may detect a script embedded within content that has a non-script MIME type
declared and execute the script.
Audit:
Remediation:
Enabled.

Explorer\Internet Control Panel\Security Page\Internet Zone\Enable MIME Sniffing
Then set the Enable MIME Sniffing option to Enable.
Impact:
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If you enable this policy setting, the MIME Sniffing Safety Feature will not apply in this
zone; the security zone will run without the added layer of security provided by this
feature. If you disable this policy setting, the actions that may be harmful cannot run; this
Internet Explorer security feature will be turned on in this zone, as dictated by the feature
control setting for the process. If you do not configure this policy setting, the MIME Sniffing
Safety Feature will not apply in this zone.
Default Value:
Enabled
References:
1. CCE-21401-5
8.1.21 Set 'Logon options' to 'Enabled:Prompt for user name and

password' (Scored)
 Level 1
Description:
This policy setting allows you to manage settings for logon options. If you enable this policy
setting, you can choose from the following logon options: Anonymous logon disables HTTP
authentication and uses the guest account only for the Common Internet File System (CIFS)
protocol. Prompt for user name and password queries users for user IDs and passwords.
After a user is queried, these values can be used silently for the remainder of the session.
Automatic logon only in Intranet zone queries users for user IDs and passwords in other
zones. After a user is queried, these values can be used silently for the remainder of the
session. Automatic logon with current user name and password attempts logon using
Windows NT Challenge Response (also known as NTLM authentication). If Windows NT
Challenge Response is supported by the server, the logon uses the user's network user
name and password for logon. If Windows NT Challenge Response is not supported by the
server, the user is queried to provide the user name and password. If you disable this
policy setting, logon is set to Automatic logon only in Intranet zone. If you do not configure
this policy setting, logon is set to Automatic logon only in Intranet zone. The recommended
state for this setting is: Enabled:Prompt for user name and password.
Rationale:
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Users could submit credentials to servers operated by malicious people who could then
attempt to connect to legitimate servers with those captured credentials.
Audit:
Settings\Zones\3\1A00
Remediation:
Enabled.

Explorer\Internet Control Panel\Security Page\Internet Zone\Logon options
Then set the Logon options option to Prompt for user name and password.
Impact:
Prompt for user name and password queries users for user IDs and passwords. After a user
is queried, these values can be used silently for the remainder of the session.
Default Value:
Automatic logon only in Intranet zone
References:
1. CCE-20293-7
8.1.22 Set 'Access data sources across domains' to 'Enabled:Disable'

(Scored)
 Level 1
Description:
This policy setting allows you to manage whether Internet Explorer can access data from
another security zone using the Microsoft XML Parser (MSXML) or ActiveX Data Objects
(ADO). The recommended state for this setting is: Enabled:Disable.
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Rationale:
The ability to access data across domains could cause the user to unknowingly access
content hosted on an unauthorized server.
Audit:
Remediation:
Enabled.

Explorer\Internet Control Panel\Security Page\Internet Zone\Access data sources across
domains
Then set the Access data sources across domains option to Disable.
Impact:
If you enable this policy setting, users can load a page in the zone that uses MSXML or ADO
to access data from another site in the zone. If you select Prompt in the drop-down box,
users are queried to choose whether to allow a page to be loaded in the zone that uses
MSXML or ADO to access data from another site in the zone. If you disable this policy
setting, users cannot load a page in the zone that uses MSXML or ADO to access data from
another site in the zone. If you do not configure this policy setting, users cannot load a page
in the zone that uses MSXML or ADO to access data from another site in the zone.
Default Value:
Disabled
References:
1. CCE-20291-1
8.1.23 Set 'Status bar updates via script' to 'Enabled:Enable' (Scored)

 Level 1
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Description:
This policy setting allows you to manage whether script is allowed to update the status bar
within the zone. If you enable this policy setting, script is allowed to update the status bar.
If you disable or do not configure this policy setting, script is not allowed to update the
status bar. The recommended state for this setting is: Enabled:Enable.
Rationale:
A script running in the zone could cause false information to be displayed on the status bar,
which could confuse the user and cause him to perform an undesirable action.
Audit:
Remediation:
Enabled.

Explorer\Internet Control Panel\Security Page\Internet Zone\Allow updates to status
bar via script
Then set the Status bar updates via script option to Enable.
Impact:
If you enable this policy setting, script is allowed to update the status bar. If you disable this
policy setting, script is not allowed to update the status bar. If you do not configure this
policy setting, status bar updates via scripts will be disabled.
References:
1. CCE-21636-6
8.1.24 Set 'Include local directory path when uploading files to a server'
to 'Enabled:Disable' (Scored)
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 Level 1
Description:
This policy setting controls whether or not local path information is sent when the user is
uploading a file via an HTML form. If the local path information is sent, some information
may be unintentionally revealed to the server. For instance, files sent from the user's
desktop may contain the user name as a part of the path. If you enable this policy setting,
path information is sent when the user is uploading a file via an HTML form. If you disable
this policy setting, path information is removed when the user is uploading a file via an
HTML form. If you do not configure this policy setting, the user can choose whether path
information is sent when he or she is uploading a file via an HTML form. By default, path
information is sent. The recommended state for this setting is: Enabled:Disable.
Rationale:
A site hosted by a malicious user could use this feature to gather information about the file
system structure of the user's computer.
Audit:
Settings\Zones\3\160A
Remediation:
Enabled.

Explorer\Internet Control Panel\Security Page\Internet Zone\Include local path when
user is uploading files to a server
Then set the Include local directory path when uploading files to a server
option to Disable.
Impact:
If you enable this policy setting, path information is sent when the user is uploading a file
via an HTML form. If you disable this policy setting, path information is removed when the
user is uploading a file via an HTML form. If you do not configure this policy setting, the
user can choose whether path information is sent when he or she is uploading a file via an
HTML form. By default, path information is sent.
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References:
1. CCE-20540-1
8.1.25 Set 'Userdata persistence' to 'Enabled:Disable' (Scored)

 Level 1
Description:
This policy setting allows you to manage the preservation of information in the browser's
history, in favorites, in an XML store, or directly within a Web page saved to disk. When a
user returns to a persisted page, the state of the page can be restored if this policy setting is
appropriately configured. If you enable this policy setting, users can preserve information
in the browser's history, in favorites, in an XML store, or directly within a Web page saved
to disk. If you disable this policy setting, users cannot preserve information in the
browser's history, in favorites, in an XML store, or directly within a Web page saved to disk.
If you do not configure this policy setting, users can preserve information in the browser's
history, in favorites, in an XML store, or directly within a Web page saved to disk. The
Rationale:
Organizations may want to disable this feature in order to prevent business data from
being stored by Internet Explorer, in the past some sites hosting malicious content
exploited this feature as part of an attack against visitors browsing the site.
Audit:
Remediation:
Enabled.

Explorer\Internet Control Panel\Security Page\Internet Zone\Userdata persistence
Then set the Userdata persistence option to Disable.
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Impact:
If you enable this policy setting, users can preserve information in the browser's history, in
favorites, in an XML store, or directly within a Web page saved to disk. If you disable this
policy setting, users cannot preserve information in the browser's history, in favorites, in
an XML store, or directly within a Web page saved to disk. If you do not configure this
policy setting, users can preserve information in the browser's history, in favorites, in an
XML store, or directly within a Web page saved to disk.
References:
1. CCE-20653-2
8.1.26 Set 'Enable dragging of content from different domains within a

window' to 'Enabled:Disable' (Scored)
 Level 1
Description:
This policy setting allows you to set options for dragging content from one domain to a
different domain when the source and destination are in the same window. If you enable
this policy setting and click Enable, users can drag content from one domain to a different
domain when the source and destination are in the same window. Users cannot change this
setting. If you enable this policy setting and click Disable, users cannot drag content from
one domain to a different domain when the source and destination are in the same
window. Users cannot change this setting in the Internet Options dialog. In Internet
Explorer 10, if you disable this policy setting or do not configure it, users cannot drag
content from one domain to a different domain when the source and destination are in the
same window. Users can change this setting in the Internet Options dialog. In Internet
Explorer 9 and earlier versions, if you disable this policy setting or do not configure it,
users can drag content from one domain to a different domain when the source and
destination are in the same window. Users cannot change this setting in the Internet
Options dialog. The recommended state for this setting is: Enabled:Disable.
Rationale:
Content hosted on untrusted sites are more likely to contain malicious payloads and
therefor this feature should be blocked for this zone.
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Audit:
Remediation:
Enabled.

Explorer\Internet Control Panel\Security Page\Internet Zone\Enable dragging of content
from different domains within a window
Then set the Enable dragging of content from different domains within a window
option to Disable.
Impact:
If you enable this policy setting and click Enable, users can drag content from one domain
to a different domain when the source and destination are in the same window. Users
cannot change this setting. If you enable this policy setting and click Disable, users cannot
drag content from one domain to a different domain when the source and destination are in
the same window. Users cannot change this setting in the Internet Options dialog. In
Internet Explorer 10, if you disable this policy setting or do not configure it, users cannot
drag content from one domain to a different domain when the source and destination are in
the same window. Users can change this setting in the Internet Options dialog. In Internet
Options dialog.
References:
1. CCE-20611-0
8.1.27 Set 'Navigate windows and frames across different domains' to

 Level 1
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Description:
This policy setting allows you to manage the opening of sub-frames and access of
applications across different domains. The recommended state for this setting is:
Enabled:Disable.
Rationale:
It is conceivable that a web site hosting malicious could use this feature to conduct an
similar to cross-site scripting.
Audit:
Remediation:
Enabled.

Explorer\Internet Control Panel\Security Page\Internet Zone\Navigate windows and
frames across different domains
Then set the Navigate windows and frames across different domains option to
Disable.
Impact:
If you enable this policy setting, users can open sub-frames from other domains and access
applications from other domains. If you select Prompt in the drop-down box, users are
queried whether to allow sub-frames or access to applications from other domains. If you
disable this policy setting, users cannot open sub-frames or access applications from
different domains. If you do not configure this policy setting, users can open sub-frames
from other domains and access applications from other domains.
Default Value:
Disabled
References:
1. CCE-20957-7
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8.1.28 Set 'Enable dragging of content from different domains across
windows' to 'Enabled:Disable' (Scored)
 Level 1
Description:
different domain when the source and destination are in different windows. If you enable
domain when the source and destination are in different windows. Users cannot change
this setting. If you enable this policy setting and click Disable, users cannot drag content
from one domain to a different domain when both the source and destination are in
different windows. Users cannot change this setting. In Internet Explorer 10, if you disable
this policy setting or do not configure it, users cannot drag content from one domain to a
different domain when the source and destination are in different windows. Users can
change this setting in the Internet Options dialog. In Internet Explorer 9 and earlier
versions, if you disable this policy or do not configure it, users can drag content from one
domain to a different domain when the source and destination are in different windows.
Users cannot change this setting. The recommended state for this setting is:
Enabled:Disable.
Rationale:
Audit:
Remediation:
Enabled.
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Explorer\Internet Control Panel\Security Page\Internet Zone\Enable dragging of content
from different domains across windows
Then set the Enable dragging of content from different domains across windows
option to Disable.
Impact:
If you enable this policy setting and click Enable, users can drag content from one domain
to a different domain when the source and destination are in different windows. Users
cannot change this setting. If you enable this policy setting and click Disable, users cannot
drag content from one domain to a different domain when both the source and destination
are in different windows. Users cannot change this setting. In Internet Explorer 10, if you
disable this policy setting or do not configure it, users cannot drag content from one
Users can change this setting in the Internet Options dialog. In Internet Explorer 9 and
earlier versions, if you disable this policy or do not configure it, users can drag content
from one domain to a different domain when the source and destination are in different
windows. Users cannot change this setting.
References:
1. CCE-20225-9
8.1.29 Set 'Allow script-initiated windows without size or position

constraints' to 'Enabled:Disable' (Scored)
 Level 1
Description:
This policy setting allows you to manage restrictions on script-initiated pop-up windows
and windows that include the title and status bars. The recommended state for this setting
is: Enabled:Disable.
Rationale:
If you enable this policy setting, scripts will be able to launch and resize additional browser
windows without and limits on size or position, attackers have used this feature in the past
to confuse users and cause them to click on links that led to undesirable consequences.
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Audit:
Remediation:
Enabled.

Explorer\Internet Control Panel\Security Page\Internet Zone\Allow script-initiated
windows without size or position constraints
Then set the Allow script-initiated windows without size or position constraints
option to Disable.
Impact:
If you enable this policy setting, Windows Restrictions security will not apply in this zone.
The security zone runs without the added layer of security provided by this feature. If you
disable this policy setting, the possible harmful actions contained in script-initiated pop-up
windows and windows that include the title and status bars cannot be run. This Internet
Explorer security feature will be on in this zone as dictated by the Scripted Windows
Security Restrictions feature control setting for the process. If you do not configure this
policy setting, the possible harmful actions contained in script-initiated pop-up windows
and windows that include the title and status bars cannot be run. This Internet Explorer
security feature will be on in this zone as dictated by the Scripted Windows Security
Restrictions feature control setting for the process.
Default Value:
Disabled
References:
1. CCE-20523-7
8.1.30 Set 'Launching applications and files in an IFRAME' to

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 Level 1
Description:
This policy setting allows you to manage whether applications may be run and files may be
downloaded from an IFRAME reference in the HTML of the pages in this zone. The
Rationale:
If you enable this policy setting, applications can run and files can be downloaded from
IFRAMEs on the pages in this zone without user intervention.
Audit:
Remediation:
Enabled.

Explorer\Internet Control Panel\Security Page\Internet Zone\Launching applications and
files in an IFRAME
Then set the Launching applications and files in an IFRAME option to Disable.
Impact:
If you enable this policy setting, users can run applications and download files from
IFRAMEs on the pages in this zone without user intervention. If you select Prompt in the
drop-down box, users are queried to choose whether to run applications and download
files from IFRAMEs on the pages in this zone. If you disable this policy setting, users are
prevented from running applications and downloading files from IFRAMEs on the pages in
this zone. If you do not configure this policy setting, users are queried to choose whether to
run applications and download files from IFRAMEs on the pages in this zone.
Default Value:
Prompt
References:
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1. CCE-19949-7
8.1.31 Set 'Software channel permissions' to 'Enabled:High safety'

(Scored)
 Level 1
Description:
This policy setting allows you to manage software channel permissions. If you enable this
policy setting, you can choose the following options from the drop-down box: The
recommended state for this setting is: Enabled:High safety.
Rationale:
Any setting lower than High Safety could cause a user to install software that includes
malicious code.
Audit:
Remediation:
Enabled.

Explorer\Internet Control Panel\Security Page\Internet Zone\Software channel
permissions
Then set the Software channel permissions option to High safety.
Impact:
Low safety allows a user to be notified of software updates by e-mail, software packages to
be automatically downloaded to a user's computers, and software packages to be
automatically installed on a user's computers. Medium safety allows a user to be notified of
software updates by e-mail and software packages to be automatically downloaded to (but
not installed on) a user's computers. High safety prevents a user from being notified of
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software updates by e-mail, and from having software packages automatically downloaded
or automatically installed on the user's computers. If you disable this policy setting,
permissions are set to High safety.
Default Value:
Medium Safety
References:
1. CCE-21503-8
8.1.32 Configure 'First-Run Opt-In' (Not Scored)

 Level 1
Description:
This policy setting controls the first-run response that the user sees on a zone-by-zone
basis. When the user encounters a new control that has not previously run in Internet
Explorer, he or she may be prompted to approve the control. This policy setting determines
whether the user is prompted. If you enable this policy setting, the first-run prompt is
turned off in the corresponding zone. If you disable this policy setting, the first-run prompt
is turned on in the corresponding zone. If you do not configure this policy setting, the first-
run prompt is turned off by default. Configure this setting in a manner that is consistent
Rationale:
The first-run prompt may help the user to avoid some types of malware hosted on sites run
Audit:
Remediation:
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Not Configured.

Explorer\Internet Control Panel\Security Page\Internet Zone\Turn off first-run prompt:
First-Run Opt-In
Impact:
If you enable this policy setting, the first-run prompt is turned off in the corresponding
zone. If you disable this policy setting, the first-run prompt is turned on in the
corresponding zone. If you do not configure this policy setting, the first-run prompt is
turned on by default.
References:
1. CCE-21020-3
8.1.33 Set 'Web sites in less privileged Web content zones can navigate
into this zone' to 'Enabled:Disable' (Scored)
 Level 1
Description:
This policy setting allows you to manage whether Web sites from less privileged zones can
navigate into this zone. The recommended state for this setting is: Enabled:Disable.
Rationale:
If you enable this policy setting, Web sites from less privileged zones can open new
windows in, or navigate into, this zone. The security zone will run without the added layer
of security that is provided by the Protection from Zone Elevation security feature.
Audit:
Remediation:
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Enabled.

Explorer\Internet Control Panel\Security Page\Internet Zone\Web sites in less
privileged Web content zones can navigate into this zone
Then set the Web sites in less privileged Web content zones can navigate into
this zone option to Disable.
Impact:
of security that is provided by the Protection from Zone Elevation security feature. If you
select Prompt in the drop-down box, a warning is issued to the user that potentially risky
navigation is about to occur. If you disable this policy setting, the possibly harmful
navigations are prevented. The Internet Explorer security feature will be on in this zone as
set by Protection from Zone Elevation feature control. If you do not configure this policy
setting, Web sites from less privileged zones can open new windows in, or navigate into,
this zone.
Default Value:
Enabled
References:
1. CCE-21468-4
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8.2 Intranet Zone
8.2.1 Set 'Java permissions' to 'Enabled:High safety' (Scored)
 Level 1
Description:
policy setting, you can choose options from the drop-down box. Select Custom to control
and secure storage area on the client computer) and user-controlled file I/O. High Safety
enables applets to run in their sandbox. Disable Java to prevent any applets from running. If
you disable this policy setting, Java applets cannot run. If you do not configure this policy
setting, the permission is set to Medium Safety. The recommended state for this setting is:
Enabled:High safety.
Rationale:
Java applications could contain malicious code.
Audit:
Remediation:
Enabled.

Explorer\Internet Control Panel\Security Page\Intranet Zone\Java permissions
Then set the Java permissions option to High safety.
References:
1. CCE-20942-9
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 Level 1
Description:
for secure and administered zones. This setting causes both unsafe and safe controls to be
initialized and scripted, ignoring the Script ActiveX controls marked safe for scripting
option. If you enable this policy setting and select Prompt in the drop-down box, users are
queried whether to allow the control to be loaded with parameters or scripted. If you
disable this policy setting, ActiveX controls that cannot be made safe are not loaded with
parameters or scripted. If you do not configure this policy setting, ActiveX controls that
cannot be made safe are not loaded with parameters or scripted. The recommended state
Rationale:
Audit:
Remediation:
Enabled.

Explorer\Internet Control Panel\Security Page\Intranet Zone\Initialize and script
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Disable.
Impact:
Default Value:
Disabled
References:
1. CCE-21097-1
8.2.3 Set 'Intranet Sites: Include all network paths (UNCs)' to 'Disabled'
(Scored)
 Level 1
Description:
This policy setting controls whether URLs representing UNCs are mapped into the local
Intranet security zone. The recommended state for this setting is: Disabled.
Rationale:
Some UNC paths could refer to servers not managed by the organization which means they
could host malicious content and therefor it is safest to not include all UNC paths in the
Intranet Sites zone.
Audit:
Settings\ZoneMap\UNCAsIntranet
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Remediation:
Disabled.

Explorer\Internet Control Panel\Security Page\Intranet Sites: Include all network
paths (UNCs)
Impact:
If you enable this policy setting, all network paths are mapped into the Intranet Zone. If you
disable this policy setting, network paths are not necessarily mapped into the Intranet
Zone (other rules might map one there).
If you do not configure this policy setting, users choose whether network paths are mapped
into the Intranet Zone.
Default Value:
Not configured.
References:
1. CCE-20409-9
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8.3 Restricted Sites Zone
 Level 1
Description:
policy setting, you can choose options from the drop-down box. Set to Custom to control
permissions settings individually. Low Safety enables applets to perform all operations.
Medium Safety enables applets to run in their sandbox (an area in memory outside of
which the program cannot make calls), plus capabilities like scratch space (a safe and
secure storage area on the client computer) and user-controlled file I/O. High Safety
enables applets to run in their sandbox. Disable Java to prevent any applets from running.
If you disable this policy setting, Java applets cannot run. If you do not configure this policy
setting, the permission is set to High Safety. The recommended state for this setting is:
Enabled:Disable Java.
Rationale:
Java applications could contain malicious code, sites located in this security zone are more
likely to be hosted by malicious people.
Audit:
Remediation:
Enabled.

Explorer\Internet Control Panel\Security Page\Restricted Sites Zone\Java permissions
Default Value:
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High Safety
References:
1. CCE-20301-8
8.3.2 Set 'Allow drag and drop or copy and paste files' to
 Level 1
Description:
This policy setting allows you to manage whether users can drag files or copy and paste
files from a source within the zone. The recommended state for this setting is:
Enabled:Disable.
Rationale:
Content hosted on sites located in the Restricted Sites Zone are more likely to contain
malicious payloads and therefor this feature should be blocked for this zone.
Audit:
Remediation:
Enabled.

Explorer\Internet Control Panel\Security Page\Restricted Sites Zone\Allow drag and
drop or copy and paste files
Then set the Allow drag and drop or copy and paste files option to Disable.
Impact:
If you enable this policy setting, users can drag files or copy and paste files from this zone
automatically. If you select Prompt in the drop-down box, users are queried to choose
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whether to drag or copy files from this zone. If you disable this policy setting, users are
prevented from dragging files or copying and pasting files from this zone.
Default Value:
Disabled
References:
1. CCE-20920-5
8.3.3 Set 'Download signed ActiveX controls' to 'Enabled:Disable'

(Scored)
 Level 1
Description:
This policy setting allows you to manage whether users may download signed ActiveX
controls from a page in the zone. The recommended state for this setting is:
Enabled:Disable.
Rationale:
Signed code is better than unsigned code in that it may be easier to determine its author,
but it is still potentially harmful, especially when coming from an untrusted zone.
Audit:
Remediation:
Enabled.

Explorer\Internet Control Panel\Security Page\Restricted Sites Zone\Download signed
ActiveX controls
Then set the Download signed ActiveX controls option to Disable.
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Impact:
If you enable this policy, users can download signed controls without user intervention. If
you select Prompt in the drop-down box, users are queried whether to download controls
signed by untrusted publishers. Code signed by trusted publishers is silently downloaded.
If you Disable the policy setting, signed controls cannot be downloaded.
Default Value:
Disabled
References:
1. CCE-20800-9
8.3.4 Set 'Script ActiveX controls marked safe for scripting' to

 Level 1
Description:
This policy setting allows you to manage whether an ActiveX control marked safe for
scripting can interact with a script. The recommended state for this setting is:
Enabled:Disable.
Rationale:
If you enable this policy setting, script interaction can occur automatically without user
intervention.
Audit:
Remediation:
Enabled.
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Explorer\Internet Control Panel\Security Page\Restricted Sites Zone\Script ActiveX
controls marked safe for scripting
Then set the Script ActiveX controls marked safe for scripting option to Disable.
Impact:
If you enable this policy setting, script interaction can occur automatically without user
intervention. If you select Prompt in the drop-down box, users are queried to choose
whether to allow script interaction. If you disable this policy setting or do not configure this
policy setting, script interaction is prevented from occurring.
Default Value:
Disabled
References:
1. CCE-21475-9
8.3.5 Set 'Allow active scripting' to 'Enabled:Disable' (Scored)

 Level 1
Description:
This policy setting allows you to manage whether script code on pages in the zone is run.
The recommended state for this setting is: Enabled:Disable.
Rationale:
Active scripts hosted on sites located in this zone are more likely to contain malicious code.
Audit:
Remediation:
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Enabled.

Explorer\Internet Control Panel\Security Page\Restricted Sites Zone\Allow active
scripting
Then set the Allow active scripting option to Disable.
Impact:
If you enable this policy setting, script code on pages in the zone can run automatically. If
you select Prompt in the drop-down box, users are queried to choose whether to allow
script code on pages in the zone to run. If you disable this policy setting, script code on
pages in the zone is prevented from running. If you do not configure this policy setting,
script code on pages in the zone is prevented from running.
Default Value:
Disabled
References:
1. CCE-21376-9
8.3.6 Set 'Turn on Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) Filter' to 'Enabled:Enable'

(Scored)
 Level 1
Description:
This policy controls whether or not the Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) Filter will detect and
prevent cross-site script injections into websites in this zone. If you enable this policy
setting, the XSS Filter is turned on for sites in this zone, and the XSS Filter attempts to block
cross-site script injections. If you disable this policy setting, the XSS Filter is turned off for
sites in this zone, and Internet Explorer permits cross-site script injections. The
Rationale:
The Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) Filter will detect and prevent cross-site script injections into
websites in this zone
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Audit:
Remediation:
Enabled.

Explorer\Internet Control Panel\Security Page\Restricted Sites Zone\Turn on Cross-Site
Scripting Filter
Then set the Turn on Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) Filter option to Enable.
References:
1. CCE-20777-9
 Level 1
Description:
for secure and administered zones. The recommended state for this setting is:
Enabled:Disable.
Rationale:
Audit:
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Remediation:
Enabled.

Explorer\Internet Control Panel\Security Page\Restricted Sites Zone\Initialize and
script ActiveX controls not marked as safe
Disable.
Impact:
Default Value:
Disabled
References:
1. CCE-20998-1
8.3.8 Set 'Run .NET Framework-reliant components signed with

 Level 1
Description:
signed with Authenticode can be executed from Internet Explorer. These components
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referenced from a link. The recommended state for this setting is: Enabled:Disable.
Rationale:
components, it may be possible for someone to host malicious content on a website that
takes advantage of these components.
Audit:
Remediation:
Enabled.

Explorer\Internet Control Panel\Security Page\Restricted Sites Zone\Run .NET
Framework-reliant components signed with Authenticode
Then set the Run .NET Framework-reliant components signed with Authenticode
option to Disable.
Impact:
user to determine whether to execute signed managed components. If you disable this
policy setting, Internet Explorer will not execute signed managed components. If you do
not configure this policy setting, Internet Explorer will not execute signed managed
components.
Default Value:
Disabled
References:
1. CCE-20223-4
8.3.9 Set 'Allow paste operations via script' to 'Enabled:Disable' (Scored)

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 Level 1
Description:
This policy setting allows you to manage whether scripts can perform a clipboard
operation (for example, cut, copy, and paste) in the security zone. The recommended state
Rationale:
A malicious script could use the clipboard in an undesirable manner, for example, if the
user had recently copied confidential information to the clipboard while editing a
document a malicious script could harvest that information. It might be possible to exploit
other vulnerabilities in order to send the harvested data to the attacker.
Audit:
Remediation:
Enabled.

Explorer\Internet Control Panel\Security Page\Restricted Sites Zone\Allow cut, copy or
paste operations from the clipboard via script
Then set the Allow paste operations via script option to Disable.
Impact:
If you enable this policy setting, a script can perform a clipboard operation. If you select
Prompt in the drop-down box, users are queried as to whether to perform clipboard
operations. If you disable this policy setting, a script cannot perform a clipboard operation.
If you do not configure this policy setting, a script cannot perform a clipboard operation.
Default Value:
Disabled
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References:
1. CCE-20533-6
8.3.10 Set 'Protected Mode' to 'Enabled:Enable' (Scored)

 Level 1
Description:
locations Internet Explorer can write to in the registry and the file system. If you enable
this policy setting, Protected Mode will be turned on. Users will not be able to turn off
protected mode. If you disable this policy setting, Protected Mode will be turned off. It will
revert to Internet Explorer 6 behavior that allows for Internet Explorer to write to the
registry and the file system. Users will not be able to turn on protected mode. If you do not
configure this policy, users will be able to turn on or off protected mode. The recommended
Rationale:
locations Internet Explorer can write to in the registry and the file system.
Audit:
Remediation:
Enabled.

Explorer\Internet Control Panel\Security Page\Restricted Sites Zone\Turn on Protected
Mode
Then set the Protected Mode option to Enable.
References:
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1. CCE-21149-0
8.3.11 Set 'Allow installation of desktop items' to 'Enabled:Disable'

(Scored)
 Level 1
Description:
This policy setting allows you to manage whether users can install Active Desktop items
from this zone. The recommended state for this setting is: Enabled:Disable.
Rationale:
Active Desktop items could contain links to unauthorized websites or other undesirable
content, it is prudent to prevent users from installing desktop items from this security
zone.
Audit:
Remediation:
Enabled.

Explorer\Internet Control Panel\Security Page\Restricted Sites Zone\Allow installation
of desktop items
Then set the Allow installation of desktop items option to Disable.
Impact:
The settings for this option are: Enabled, users can install desktop items from this zone
automatically. Prompt, users are queried to choose whether to install desktop items from
this zone. Disabled, users are prevented from installing desktop items from this zone. If you
do not configure this policy setting, users are prevented from installing desktop items from
this zone.
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Default Value:
Disabled
References:
1. CCE-20631-8
8.3.12 Set 'Launching programs and unsafe files' to 'Enabled:Prompt'

(Scored)
 Level 1
Description:
This policy setting controls whether or not the "Open File - Security Warning" message
appears when the user tries to open executable files or other potentially unsafe files (from
an intranet file share by using File Explorer, for example). If you enable this policy setting
and set the drop-down box to Enable, these files open without a security warning. If you set
the drop-down box to Prompt, a security warning appears before the files open. If you
disable this policy setting, these files do not open. If you do not configure this policy setting,
the user can configure how the computer handles these files. By default, these files are
blocked in the Restricted zone, enabled in the Intranet and Local Computer zones, and set
to prompt in the Internet and Trusted zones. The recommended state for this setting is:
Enabled:Prompt.
Rationale:
The security warning may help the user to avoid some types of malware hosted on sites run
Audit:
Remediation:
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Enabled.

Explorer\Internet Control Panel\Security Page\Restricted Sites Zone\Show security
warning for potentially unsafe files
Then set the Launching programs and unsafe files option to Prompt.
References:
1. CCE-21169-8
8.3.13 Set 'Automatic prompting for file downloads' to 'Enabled:Disable'

(Scored)
 Level 1
Description:
This policy setting determines whether users will be prompted for non user-initiated file
downloads. Regardless of this setting, users will receive file download dialogs for user-
initiated downloads. The recommended state for this setting is: Enabled:Disable.
Rationale:
Users may accept downloads that they did not request, those downloaded files may include
malicious code.
Audit:
Remediation:
Enabled.

Explorer\Internet Control Panel\Security Page\Restricted Sites Zone\Automatic
prompting for file downloads
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Then set the Automatic prompting for file downloads option to Disable.
Impact:
If you enable this setting, users will receive a file download dialog for automatic download
attempts. If you disable or do not configure this setting, file downloads that are not user-
initiated will be blocked, and users will see the Information Bar instead of the file
download dialog. Users can then click the Information Bar to allow the file download
prompt.
Default Value:
Disabled
References:
1. CCE-21387-6
8.3.14 Set 'XAML Files' to 'Enabled:Disable' (Scored)

 Level 1
Description:
This policy setting allows you to manage the loading of Extensible Application Markup
Language (XAML) files. XAML is an XML-based declarative markup language commonly
used for creating rich user interfaces and graphics that take advantage of the Windows
Presentation Foundation. If you enable this policy setting and set the drop-down box to
Enable, XAML files are automatically loaded inside Internet Explorer. The user cannot
change this behavior. If you set the drop-down box to Prompt, the user is prompted for
loading XAML files. If you disable this policy setting, XAML files are not loaded inside
Internet Explorer. The user cannot change this behavior. If you do not configure this policy
setting, the user can decide whether to load XAML files inside Internet Explorer. The
Rationale:
Enabling loading of XAML files is a risky configuration due to the broad attack surface
exposed by the feature.
Audit:
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Remediation:
Enabled.

Explorer\Internet Control Panel\Security Page\Restricted Sites Zone\Allow loading of
XAML files
Then set the XAML Files option to Disable.
References:
1. CCE-20038-6
8.3.15 Set 'Allow font downloads' to 'Enabled:Disable' (Scored)

 Level 1
Description:
This policy setting allows you to manage whether pages of the zone may download HTML
fonts. The recommended state for this setting is: Enabled:Disable.
Rationale:
It is possible that a font could include malformed data that would cause Internet Explorer
to crash when it attempts to load and render the font.
Audit:
Remediation:
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Enabled.

Explorer\Internet Control Panel\Security Page\Restricted Sites Zone\Allow font
downloads
Then set the Allow font downloads option to Disable.
Impact:
If you enable this policy setting, HTML fonts can be downloaded automatically. If you
enable this policy setting and Prompt is selected in the drop-down box, users are queried
whether to allow HTML fonts to download. If you disable this policy setting, HTML fonts
are prevented from downloading.
Default Value:
Disabled
References:
1. CCE-21010-4
8.3.16 Set 'Enable MIME Sniffing' to 'Enabled:Enable' (Scored)

 Level 1
Description:
This policy setting allows you to manage MIME sniffing for file promotion from one type to
another based on a MIME sniff. A MIME sniff is the recognition by Internet Explorer of the
file type based on a bit signature. If you enable this policy setting, the MIME Sniffing Safety
Feature will not apply in this zone. The security zone will run without the added layer of
security provided by this feature. If you disable this policy setting, the actions that may be
harmful cannot run; this Internet Explorer security feature will be turned on in this zone, as
dictated by the feature control setting for the process. If you do not configure this policy
setting, the actions that may be harmful cannot run; this Internet Explorer security feature
will be turned on in this zone, as dictated by the feature control setting for the process. The
Rationale:
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The MIME Sniffing Safety Feature improves security in some scenarios by providing an
added layer of defense against potentially malicious files. The feature also helps with
compatibility issues caused by web servers that specify incorrect MIME types. Under
certain circumstances it can actually increase the risk of compromise because Internet
Explorer may detect a script embedded within content that has a non-script MIME type
declared and execute the script.
Audit:
Remediation:
Enabled.

Explorer\Internet Control Panel\Security Page\Restricted Sites Zone\Enable MIME
Sniffing
Then set the Enable MIME Sniffing option to Enable.
Default Value:
Enabled
References:
1. CCE-21447-8
8.3.17 Set 'Internet Explorer web browser control' to 'Enabled:Disable'

(Scored)
 Level 1
Description:
This policy setting determines whether a page can control embedded WebBrowser controls
via script. If you enable this policy setting, script access to the WebBrowser control is
allowed. If you disable this policy setting, script access to the WebBrowser control is not
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allowed. If you do not configure this policy setting, the user can enable or disable script
access to the WebBrowser control. By default, script access to the WebBrowser control is
allowed only in the Local Machine and Intranet zones. The recommended state for this
setting is: Enabled:Disable.
Rationale:
A website hosted by a malicious person could attempt to exploit this feature. For example,
in the past there have been cross-site scripting vulnerabilities that were exploited to use
various WebBrowser controls.
Audit:
Remediation:
Enabled.

Explorer\Internet Control Panel\Security Page\Restricted Sites Zone\Allow scripting of
Internet Explorer WebBrowser controls
Then set the Internet Explorer web browser control option to Disable.
References:
1. CCE-20976-7
8.3.18 Set 'Allow Binary and Script Behaviors' to 'Enabled:Disable'

(Scored)
 Level 1
Description:
This policy setting allows you to manage dynamic binary and script behaviors: components
that encapsulate specific functionality for HTML elements to which they were attached. The
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Rationale:
Executable binaries and scripts may include malicious code, the risk of this is higher in the
Restricted Sites Zone.
Audit:
Remediation:
Enabled.

Explorer\Internet Control Panel\Security Page\Restricted Sites Zone\Allow binary and
script behaviors
Then set the Allow Binary and Script Behaviors option to Disable.
Impact:
If you enable this policy setting, binary and script behaviors are available. If you select
Administrator approved in the drop-down box, only behaviors listed in the Admin-
approved Behaviors under Binary Behaviors Security Restriction policy are available. If you
disable this policy setting, binary and script behaviors are not available unless applications
have implemented a custom security manager. If you do not configure this policy setting,
binary and script behaviors are not available unless applications have implemented a
custom security manager.
Default Value:
Disabled
References:
1. CCE-20760-5
8.3.19 Set 'Scripting of Java applets' to 'Enabled:Disable' (Scored)

 Level 1
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Description:
This policy setting allows you to manage whether applets are exposed to scripts within the
zone. The recommended state for this setting is: Enabled:Disable.
Rationale:
If you enable this policy setting, scripts can access applets automatically without user
intervention.
Audit:
Remediation:
Enabled.

Explorer\Internet Control Panel\Security Page\Restricted Sites Zone\Scripting of Java
applets
Then set the Scripting of Java applets option to Disable.
Impact:
If you enable this policy setting, scripts can access applets automatically without user
intervention. If you select Prompt in the drop-down box, users are queried to choose
whether to allow scripts to access applets. If you disable this policy setting or do not
configure this policy setting, scripts are prevented from accessing applets.
Default Value:
Disabled
References:
1. CCE-21363-7
8.3.20 Set 'Use Pop-up Blocker' to 'Enabled:Enable' (Scored)

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 Level 1
Description:
This policy setting allows you to manage whether unwanted pop-up windows appear. Pop-
up windows that are opened when the end user clicks a link are not blocked. The
Rationale:
Pop-up windows have been used on web sites that host malicious content to trick users
into clicking on dangerous links or to confuse users by hiding elements of the browser
interface.
Audit:
Remediation:
Enabled.

Explorer\Internet Control Panel\Security Page\Restricted Sites Zone\Use Pop-up Blocker
Then set the Use Pop-up Blocker option to Enable.
Impact:
If you enable this policy setting, many unwanted pop-up windows are prevented from
appearing. If you disable this policy setting, pop-up windows are not prevented from
appearing. If you do not configure this policy setting, many unwanted pop-up windows are
prevented from appearing.
Default Value:
Enabled
References:
1. CCE-19656-8
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8.3.21 Set 'Download unsigned ActiveX controls' to 'Enabled:Disable'
(Scored)
 Level 1
Description:
This policy setting allows you to manage whether users may download unsigned ActiveX
controls from the zone. The recommended state for this setting is: Enabled:Disable.
Rationale:
Unsigned code is potentially harmful, especially when coming from an untrusted zone.
Audit:
Remediation:
Enabled.

Explorer\Internet Control Panel\Security Page\Restricted Sites Zone\Download unsigned
ActiveX controls
Then set the Download unsigned ActiveX controls option to Disable.
Impact:
If you enable this policy setting, users can run unsigned controls without user intervention.
If you select Prompt in the drop-down box, users are queried to choose whether to allow
the unsigned control to run. If you disable this policy setting, users cannot run unsigned
controls. If you do not configure this policy setting, users cannot run unsigned controls.
Default Value:
Disabled
References:
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1. CCE-20074-1
8.3.22 Set 'Scriptlets' to 'Enabled:Disable' (Scored)

 Level 1
Description:
This policy setting allows you to manage whether scriptlets can be allowed. If you enable
this policy setting, users will be able to run scriptlets. If you disable this policy setting,
users will not be able to run scriptlets. If you do not configure this policy setting, a scriptlet
can be enabled or disabled by the user. The recommended state for this setting is:
Enabled:Disable.
Rationale:
Scriptlets have been exploited by malicious users in the past, one example is the malware
Exploit-MSWord.k which embedded the class ID of the Microsoft Scriptlet Component
within a Word document and the URL of a website that hosted additional malicious
software. When opened Microsoft Word would process the embedded object then
download and activate the malicious payload. This particular vulnerability was patched
several years ago but disabling this setting in untrusted zones helps mitigate against the
entire class of attacks.
Audit:
Remediation:
Enabled.

Explorer\Internet Control Panel\Security Page\Restricted Sites Zone\Allow Scriptlets
Then set the Scriptlets option to Disable.
References:
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1. CCE-20889-2
8.3.23 Set 'Allow file downloads' to 'Enabled:Disable' (Scored)

 Level 1
Description:
This policy setting allows you to manage whether file downloads are permitted from the
zone. This option is determined by the zone of the page with the link causing the download,
not the zone from which the file is delivered. The recommended state for this setting is:
Enabled:Disable.
Rationale:
Sites located in the Restricted Sites Zone are more likely to contain malicious payloads and
therefor downloads from this zone should be blocked.
Audit:
Remediation:
Enabled.

Explorer\Internet Control Panel\Security Page\Restricted Sites Zone\Allow file
downloads
Then set the Allow file downloads option to Disable.
Impact:
If you enable this policy setting, files can be downloaded from the zone. If you disable this
policy setting, files are prevented from being downloaded from the zone. If you do not
configure this policy setting, files are prevented from being downloaded from the zone.
Default Value:
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Disabled
References:
1. CCE-21183-9
8.3.24 Set 'Only allow approved domains to use ActiveX controls

without prompt' to 'Enabled:Enable' (Scored)
 Level 1
Description:
Rationale:
Audit:
Settings\Zones\4\120b
Remediation:
Enabled.

Explorer\Internet Control Panel\Security Page\Restricted Sites Zone\Allow only
approved domains to use ActiveX controls without prompt
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option to Enable.
Impact:
References:
1. CCE-20668-0
8.3.25 Set 'Use SmartScreen Filter' to 'Enabled:Enable' (Scored)

 Level 1
Description:
This policy setting controls whether SmartScreen Filter scans pages in this zone for
malicious content. If you enable this policy setting, SmartScreen Filter scans pages in this
zone for malicious content. If you disable this policy setting, SmartScreen Filter does not
scan pages in this zone for malicious content. If you do not configure this policy setting, the
user can choose whether SmartScreen Filter scans pages in this zone for malicious content.
Note: In Internet Explorer 7, this policy setting controls whether Phishing Filter scans
pages in this zone for malicious content. The recommended state for this setting is:
Enabled:Enable.
Rationale:
If the SmartScreen Filter is enabled globally, not enabling this setting would allow the user
to disable the use of the SmartScreen Filter in this zone.
Audit:
Remediation:
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Enabled.

Explorer\Internet Control Panel\Security Page\Restricted Sites Zone\Turn on
SmartScreen Filter scan
Then set the Use SmartScreen Filter option to Enable.
Impact:
The SmartScreen Filter will be used in this zone.
References:
1. CCE-20196-2
8.3.26 Set 'Run ActiveX controls and plugins' to 'Enabled:Disable'

(Scored)
 Level 1
Description:
This policy setting allows you to manage whether ActiveX controls and plug-ins can be run
on pages from the specified zone. The recommended state for this setting is:
Enabled:Disable.
Rationale:
If you enable this policy setting, controls and plug-ins can run without user intervention.
Audit:
Remediation:
Enabled.
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Explorer\Internet Control Panel\Security Page\Restricted Sites Zone\Run ActiveX
controls and plugins
Then set the Run ActiveX controls and plugins option to Disable.
Impact:
If you enable this policy setting, controls and plug-ins can run without user intervention. If
you selected Prompt in the drop-down box, users are asked to choose whether to allow the
controls or plug-in to run. If you disable this policy setting, controls and plug-ins are
prevented from running. If you do not configure this policy setting, controls, and plug-ins
are prevented from running.
Default Value:
Disabled
References:
1. CCE-20294-5
8.3.27 Set 'Run .NET Framework-reliant components not signed with

 Level 1
Description:
not signed with Authenticode® can be executed from Internet Explorer. These components
referenced from a link. The recommended state for this setting is: Enabled:Disable.
Rationale:
Unsigned components may have a greater chance of including malicious code and it is more
difficult to determine the author of the application therefore they should be avoided if
possible.
Audit:
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Remediation:
Enabled.

Explorer\Internet Control Panel\Security Page\Restricted Sites Zone\Run .NET
Framework-reliant components not signed with Authenticode
Then set the Run .NET Framework-reliant components not signed with Authenticode
option to Disable.
Impact:
If you enable this policy setting, Internet Explorer will execute unsigned managed
user to determine whether to execute unsigned managed components. If you disable this
policy setting, Internet Explorer will not execute unsigned managed components. If you do
not configure this policy setting, Internet Explorer will not execute unsigned managed
components.
Default Value:
Disabled
References:
1. CCE-20756-3
8.3.28 Set 'Logon options' to 'Enabled:Anonymous logon' (Scored)

 Level 1
Description:
This policy setting allows you to manage settings for logon options. If you enable this policy
setting, you can choose from the following logon options: Anonymous logon disables HTTP
authentication and uses the guest account only for the Common Internet File System (CIFS)
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protocol. Prompt for user name and password queries users for user IDs and passwords.
After a user is queried, these values can be used silently for the remainder of the session.
Automatic logon only in Intranet zone queries users for user IDs and passwords in other
zones. After a user is queried, these values can be used silently for the remainder of the
session. Automatic logon with current user name and password attempts logon using
Windows NT Challenge Response (also known as NTLM authentication). If Windows NT
Challenge Response is supported by the server, the logon uses the user's network user
name and password for logon. If Windows NT Challenge Response is not supported by the
server, the user is queried to provide the user name and password. If you disable this
policy setting, logon is set to Automatic logon only in Intranet zone. If you do not configure
this policy setting, logon is set to Automatic logon only in Intranet zone. The recommended
state for this setting is: Enabled:Anonymous logon.
Rationale:
Users could submit credentials to servers operated by malicious people who could then
attempt to connect to legitimate servers with those captured credentials.
Audit:
Settings\Zones\4\1A00
Remediation:
Enabled.

Explorer\Internet Control Panel\Security Page\Restricted Sites Zone\Logon options
Then set the Logon options option to Anonymous logon.
Impact:
Anonymous logon disables HTTP authentication and uses the guest account, which means
that users will be unable to connect to sites in this security zone that require
authentication.
Default Value:
Prompt for user name and password
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References:
1. CCE-20947-8
8.3.29 Set 'Allow script-initiated windows without size or position

constraints' to 'Enabled:Disable' (Scored)
 Level 1
Description:
This policy setting allows you to manage restrictions on script-initiated pop-up windows
and windows that include the title and status bars. The recommended state for this setting
is: Enabled:Disable.
Rationale:
If you enable this policy setting, scripts will be able to launch and resize additional browser
windows without and limits on size or position, attackers have used this feature in the past
to confuse users and cause them to click on links that led to undesirable consequences.
Audit:
Remediation:
Enabled.

Explorer\Internet Control Panel\Security Page\Restricted Sites Zone\Allow script-
initiated windows without size or position constraints
Then set the Allow script-initiated windows without size or position constraints
option to Disable.
Impact:
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If you enable this policy setting, Windows Restrictions security will not apply in this zone.
The security zone runs without the added layer of security provided by this feature. If you
disable this policy setting, the possible harmful actions contained in script-initiated pop-up
windows and windows that include the title and status bars cannot be run. This Internet
Explorer security feature will be on in this zone as dictated by the Scripted Windows
Security Restrictions feature control setting for the process. If you do not configure this
policy setting, the possible harmful actions contained in script-initiated pop-up windows
and windows that include the title and status bars cannot be run. This Internet Explorer
security feature will be on in this zone as dictated by the Scripted Windows Security
Restrictions feature control setting for the process.
Default Value:
Disabled
References:
1. CCE-19658-4
8.3.30 Set 'Allow META REFRESH' to 'Enabled:Disable' (Scored)

 Level 1
Description:
This policy setting allows you to manage whether a user's browser can be redirected to
another Web page if the author of the Web page uses the Meta Refresh setting to redirect
browsers to another Web page. The recommended state for this setting is:
Enabled:Disable.
Rationale:
It is possible that users will unknowingly be redirected to a site hosting malicious content.
Audit:
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Remediation:
Enabled.

Explorer\Internet Control Panel\Security Page\Restricted Sites Zone\Allow META REFRESH
Then set the Allow META REFRESH option to Disable.
Impact:
If you enable this policy setting, a user's browser that loads a page containing an active
Meta Refresh setting can be redirected to another Web page. If you disable this policy
setting, a user's browser that loads a page containing an active Meta Refresh setting cannot
be redirected to another Web page. If you do not configure this policy setting, a user's
browser that loads a page containing an active Meta Refresh setting cannot be redirected to
another Web page.
Default Value:
Disabled
References:
1. CCE-21107-8
8.3.31 Set 'Userdata persistence' to 'Enabled:Disable' (Scored)

 Level 1
Description:
This policy setting allows you to manage the preservation of information in the browser's
history, in favorites, in an XML store, or directly within a Web page saved to disk. When a
user returns to a persisted page, the state of the page can be restored if this policy setting is
appropriately configured. If you enable this policy setting, users can preserve information
in the browser's history, in favorites, in an XML store, or directly within a Web page saved
to disk. If you disable this policy setting, users cannot preserve information in the
browser's history, in favorites, in an XML store, or directly within a Web page saved to
disk. If you do not configure this policy setting, users cannot preserve information in the
browser's history, in favorites, in an XML store, or directly within a Web page saved to disk.
The recommended state for this setting is: Enabled:Disable.
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Rationale:
Organizations may want to disable this feature in order to prevent business data from
being stored by Internet Explorer, in the past some sites hosting malicious content
exploited this feature as part of an attack against visitors browsing the site.
Audit:
Remediation:
Enabled.

Explorer\Internet Control Panel\Security Page\Restricted Sites Zone\Userdata
persistence
Then set the Userdata persistence option to Disable.
References:
1. CCE-21125-0
8.3.32 Set 'Navigate windows and frames across different domains' to

 Level 1
Description:
This policy setting allows you to manage the opening of sub-frames and access of
applications across different domains. The recommended state for this setting is:
Enabled:Disable.
Rationale:
It is conceivable that a web site hosting malicious could use this feature to conduct an
similar to cross-site scripting.
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Audit:
Remediation:
Enabled.

Explorer\Internet Control Panel\Security Page\Restricted Sites Zone\Navigate windows
and frames across different domains
Then set the Navigate windows and frames across different domains option to
Disable.
Impact:
If you enable this policy setting, users can open sub-frames from other domains and access
applications from other domains. If you select Prompt in the drop-down box, users are
queried whether to allow sub-frames or access to applications from other domains. If you
disable this policy setting, users cannot open sub-frames or access applications from
different domains. If you do not configure this policy setting, users can open sub-frames
from other domains and access applications from other domains.
Default Value:
Disabled
References:
1. CCE-20361-2
8.3.33 Set 'Software channel permissions' to 'Enabled:High safety'

(Scored)
 Level 1
Description:
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This policy setting allows you to manage software channel permissions. If you enable this
policy setting, you can choose the following options from the drop-down box: Low safety
allows a user to be notified of software updates by e-mail, software packages to be
automatically downloaded to a user's computers, and software packages to be
automatically installed on a user's computers. Medium safety allows a user to be notified of
software updates by e-mail and software packages to be automatically downloaded to (but
not installed on) a user's computers. High safety prevents a user from being notified of
software updates by e-mail, and from having software packages automatically downloaded
or automatically installed on the user's computers. If you disable this policy setting,
permissions are set to High safety. The recommended state for this setting is:
Rationale:
Any setting lower than High Safety could cause a user to install software that includes
malicious code.
Audit:
Remediation:
Enabled.

Explorer\Internet Control Panel\Security Page\Restricted Sites Zone\Software channel
permissions
Then set the Software channel permissions option to High safety.
Impact:
There should be no impact since the recommended setting is also the default.
Default Value:
High safety
References:
1. CCE-21098-9
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8.3.34 Set 'Include local directory path when uploading files to a server'
to 'Enabled:Disable' (Scored)
 Level 1
Description:
This policy setting controls whether or not local path information is sent when the user is
uploading a file via an HTML form. If the local path information is sent, some information
may be unintentionally revealed to the server. For instance, files sent from the user's
desktop may contain the user name as a part of the path. If you enable this policy setting,
path information is sent when the user is uploading a file via an HTML form. If you disable
this policy setting, path information is removed when the user is uploading a file via an
HTML form. If you do not configure this policy setting, the user can choose whether path
information is sent when he or she is uploading a file via an HTML form. By default, path
information is sent. The recommended state for this setting is: Enabled:Disable.
Rationale:
A site hosted by a malicious user could use this feature to gather information about the file
system structure of the user's computer.
Audit:
Settings\Zones\4\160A
Remediation:
Enabled.

Explorer\Internet Control Panel\Security Page\Restricted Sites Zone\Include local path
when user is uploading files to a server
Then set the Include local directory path when uploading files to a server
option to Disable.
References:
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1. CCE-21497-3
8.3.35 Set 'Enable dragging of content from different domains within a

window' to 'Enabled:Disable' (Scored)
 Level 1
Description:
different domain when the source and destination are in the same window. If you enable
domain when the source and destination are in the same window. Users cannot change this
setting. If you enable this policy setting and click Disable, users cannot drag content from
one domain to a different domain when the source and destination are in the same
window. Users cannot change this setting in the Internet Options dialog. In Internet
Explorer 10, if you disable this policy setting or do not configure it, users cannot drag
content from one domain to a different domain when the source and destination are in the
same window. Users can change this setting in the Internet Options dialog. In Internet
Options dialog. The recommended state for this setting is: Enabled:Disable.
Rationale:
Audit:
Remediation:
Enabled.
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Explorer\Internet Control Panel\Security Page\Restricted Sites Zone\Enable dragging of
content from different domains within a window
Then set the Enable dragging of content from different domains within a window
option to Disable.
References:
1. CCE-19774-9
8.3.36 Set 'Status bar updates via script' to 'Enabled:Enable' (Scored)

 Level 1
Description:
This policy setting allows you to manage whether script is allowed to update the status bar
within the zone. If you enable this policy setting, script is allowed to update the status bar.
If you disable or do not configure this policy setting, script is not allowed to update the
status bar. The recommended state for this setting is: Enabled:Enable.
Rationale:
A script running in the zone could cause false information to be displayed on the status bar,
which could confuse the user and cause him to perform an undesirable action.
Audit:
Remediation:
Enabled.

Explorer\Internet Control Panel\Security Page\Restricted Sites Zone\Allow updates to
status bar via script
Then set the Status bar updates via script option to Enable.
Impact:
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If you enable this policy setting, script is allowed to update the status bar. If you disable this
policy setting, script is not allowed to update the status bar. If you do not configure this
policy setting, status bar updates via scripts will be disabled.
References:
1. CCE-21091-4
8.3.37 Set 'Access data sources across domains' to 'Enabled:Disable'

(Scored)
 Level 1
Description:
This policy setting allows you to manage whether Internet Explorer can access data from
another security zone using the Microsoft XML Parser (MSXML) or ActiveX Data Objects
(ADO). The recommended state for this setting is: Enabled:Disable.
Rationale:
The ability to access data across domains could cause the user to unknowingly access
content hosted on an unauthorized server.
Audit:
Remediation:
Enabled.

Explorer\Internet Control Panel\Security Page\Restricted Sites Zone\Access data
sources across domains
Then set the Access data sources across domains option to Disable.
Impact:
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If you enable this policy setting, users can load a page in the zone that uses MSXML or ADO
to access data from another site in the zone. If you select Prompt in the drop-down box,
users are queried to choose whether to allow a page to be loaded in the zone that uses
MSXML or ADO to access data from another site in the zone. If you disable this policy
setting, users cannot load a page in the zone that uses MSXML or ADO to access data from
another site in the zone. If you do not configure this policy setting, users cannot load a page
in the zone that uses MSXML or ADO to access data from another site in the zone.
Default Value:
Disabled
References:
1. CCE-20263-0
8.3.38 Set 'Web sites in less privileged Web content zones can navigate
into this zone' to 'Enabled:Disable' (Scored)
 Level 1
Description:
This policy setting allows you to manage whether Web sites from less privileged zones can
navigate into this zone. The recommended state for this setting is: Enabled:Disable.
Rationale:
of security that is provided by the Protection from Zone Elevation security feature.
Audit:
Remediation:
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Enabled.

Explorer\Internet Control Panel\Security Page\Restricted Sites Zone\Web sites in less
privileged Web content zones can navigate into this zone
Then set the Web sites in less privileged Web content zones can navigate into
this zone option to Disable.
Impact:
of security that is provided by the Protection from Zone Elevation security feature. If you
select Prompt in the drop-down box, a warning is issued to the user that potentially risky
navigation is about to occur. If you disable this policy setting, the possibly harmful
navigations are prevented. The Internet Explorer security feature will be on in this zone as
set by Protection from Zone Elevation feature control. If you do not configure this policy
setting, Web sites from less privileged zones can open new windows in, or navigate into,
this zone.
Default Value:
Disabled
References:
1. CCE-21331-4
8.3.39 Configure 'First-Run Opt-In' (Not Scored)

 Level 1
Description:
This policy setting controls the first-run response that the user sees on a zone-by-zone
basis. When the user encounters a new control that has not previously run in Internet
Explorer, he or she may be prompted to approve the control. This policy setting determines
whether the user is prompted. If you enable this policy setting, the first-run prompt is
turned off in the corresponding zone. If you disable this policy setting, the first-run prompt
is turned on in the corresponding zone. If you do not configure this policy setting, the first-
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run prompt is turned off by default. Configure this setting in a manner that is consistent
Rationale:
The first-run prompt may help the user to avoid some types of malware hosted on sites run
Audit:
Remediation:
Not Configured.

Explorer\Internet Control Panel\Security Page\Restricted Sites Zone\Turn off first-run
prompt: First-Run Opt-In
References:
1. CCE-20187-1
8.3.40 Set 'Enable dragging of content from different domains across

windows' to 'Enabled:Disable' (Scored)
 Level 1
Description:
different domain when the source and destination are in different windows. If you enable
domain when the source and destination are in different windows. Users cannot change
this setting. If you enable this policy setting and click Disable, users cannot drag content
from one domain to a different domain when both the source and destination are in
different windows. Users cannot change this setting. In Internet Explorer 10, if you disable
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this policy setting or do not configure it, users cannot drag content from one domain to a
different domain when the source and destination are in different windows. Users can
change this setting in the Internet Options dialog. In Internet Explorer 9 and earlier
versions, if you disable this policy or do not configure it, users can drag content from one
Users cannot change this setting. The recommended state for this setting is:
Enabled:Disable.
Rationale:
Audit:
Remediation:
Enabled.

Explorer\Internet Control Panel\Security Page\Restricted Sites Zone\Enable dragging of
content from different domains across windows
Then set the Enable dragging of content from different domains across windows
option to Disable.
References:
1. CCE-20615-1
8.3.41 Set 'Launching applications and files in an IFRAME' to

 Level 1
Description:
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This policy setting allows you to manage whether applications may be run and files may be
downloaded from an IFRAME reference in the HTML of the pages in this zone. The
Rationale:
If you enable this policy setting, applications can run and files can be downloaded from
IFRAMEs on the pages in this zone without user intervention.
Audit:
Remediation:
Enabled.

Explorer\Internet Control Panel\Security Page\Restricted Sites Zone\Launching
applications and files in an IFRAME
Then set the Launching applications and files in an IFRAME option to Disable.
Impact:
If you enable this policy setting, users can run applications and download files from
IFRAMEs on the pages in this zone without user intervention. If you select Prompt in the
drop-down box, users are queried to choose whether to run applications and download
files from IFRAMEs on the pages in this zone. If you disable this policy setting, users are
prevented from running applications and downloading files from IFRAMEs on the pages in
this zone. If you do not configure this policy setting, users are queried to choose whether to
run applications and download files from IFRAMEs on the pages in this zone.
Default Value:
Disabled
References:
1. CCE-20818-1
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8.4 Local Machine Zone
 Level 1
Description:
policy setting, you can choose options from the drop-down box. Set this to Custom to
control permissions settings individually. Low Safety enables applets to perform all
enables applets to run in their sandbox. Disable Java to prevent any applets from running. If
you disable this policy setting, Java applets cannot run. If you do not configure this policy
setting, the permission is set to Medium Safety. The recommended state for this setting is:
Rationale:
Audit:
Remediation:
Enabled.

Explorer\Internet Control Panel\Security Page\Local Machine Zone\Java permissions
References:
1. CCE-20010-5
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 Level 1
Description:
Enabled:Enable.
Rationale:
Audit:
Remediation:
Enabled.

Explorer\Internet Control Panel\Security Page\Local Machine Zone\Turn on SmartScreen
Filter scan
Impact:
References:
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1. CCE-20875-1
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8.5 Trusted Sites Zone
8.5.1 Set 'Java permissions' to 'Enabled:High safety' (Scored)
 Level 1
Description:
enables applets to run in their sandbox. Disable Java to prevent any applets from running.
If you disable this policy setting, Java applets cannot run. If you do not configure this policy
setting, the permission is set to Low Safety. The recommended state for this setting is:
Rationale:
Audit:
Remediation:
Enabled.

Explorer\Internet Control Panel\Security Page\Trusted Sites Zone\Java permissions
Then set the Java permissions option to High safety.
References:
1. CCE-20319-0
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 Level 1
Description:
This policy setting allows you to manage ActiveX controls not marked as safe.
If you enable this policy setting, ActiveX controls are run, loaded with parameters, and
scripted without setting object safety for untrusted data or scripts. This setting is not
recommended, except for secure and administered zones. This setting causes both unsafe
and safe controls to be initialized and scripted, ignoring the Script ActiveX controls marked
safe for scripting option.
whether to allow the control to be loaded with parameters or scripted.
If you disable this policy setting, ActiveX controls that cannot be made safe are not loaded
with parameters or scripted.
If you do not configure this policy setting, users are queried whether to allow the control to
be loaded with parameters or scripted. The recommended state for this setting is:
Enabled:Disable.
Rationale:
Audit:
Remediation:
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Enabled.

Explorer\Internet Control Panel\Security Page\Trusted Sites Zone\Initialize and script
Disable.
Default Value:
Prompt
References:
1. CCE-20433-9
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8.6 Locked-Down Internet Zone
 Level 1
Description:
Enabled:Enable.
Rationale:
Audit:
Settings\Lockdown_Zones\3\2301
Remediation:
Enabled.

Explorer\Internet Control Panel\Security Page\Locked-Down Internet Zone\Turn on
Impact:
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References:
1. CCE-20676-3
 Level 1
Description:
Rationale:
Audit:
Settings\Lockdown_Zones\3\120b
Remediation:
Enabled.

Explorer\Internet Control Panel\Security Page\Locked-Down Internet Zone\Allow only
approved domains to use ActiveX controls without prompt
option to Enable.
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Impact:
References:
1. CCE-20176-4
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8.7 Locked-Down Intranet Zone
 Level 1
Description:
enables applets to run in their sandbox. Disable Java to prevent any applets from
this policy setting, Java applets are disabled. The recommended state for this setting is:
Rationale:
Audit:
Settings\Lockdown_Zones\1\1C00
Remediation:
Enabled.

Explorer\Internet Control Panel\Security Page\Locked-Down Intranet Zone\Java
permissions
References:
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1. CCE-19773-1

 Level 1
Description:
Enabled:Enable.
Rationale:
Audit:
Remediation:
Enabled.

Explorer\Internet Control Panel\Security Page\Locked-Down Intranet Zone\Turn on
Impact:
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References:
1. CCE-20217-6
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8.8 Locked-Down Restricted Sites Zone
 Level 1
Description:
Rationale:
Audit:
Remediation:
Enabled.

Explorer\Internet Control Panel\Security Page\Locked-Down Restricted Sites Zone\Java
permissions
References:
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1. CCE-20882-7
 Level 1
Description:
Rationale:
Audit:
Settings\Lockdown_Zones\4\120b
Remediation:
Enabled.

Explorer\Internet Control Panel\Security Page\Locked-Down Restricted Sites Zone\Allow
only approved domains to use ActiveX controls without prompt
option to Enable.
Impact:
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References:
1. CCE-20158-2

 Level 1
Description:
Enabled:Enable.
Rationale:
Audit:
Remediation:
Enabled.

Explorer\Internet Control Panel\Security Page\Locked-Down Restricted Sites Zone\Turn
on SmartScreen Filter scan
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Impact:
References:
1. CCE-21577-2
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8.9 Locked-Down Local Machine Zone
 Level 1
Description:
Rationale:
Audit:
Remediation:
Enabled.

Explorer\Internet Control Panel\Security Page\Locked-Down Local Machine Zone\Java
permissions
References:
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1. CCE-21005-4

 Level 1
Description:
Enabled:Enable.
Rationale:
Audit:
Remediation:
Enabled.

Explorer\Internet Control Panel\Security Page\Locked-Down Local Machine Zone\Turn on
Impact:
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References:
1. CCE-21218-3
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8.10 Locked-Down Trusted Sites Zone
 Level 1
Description:
Rationale:
Audit:
Remediation:
Enabled.

Explorer\Internet Control Panel\Security Page\Locked-Down Trusted Sites Zone\Java
permissions
References:
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1. CCE-20396-8

 Level 1
Description:
malicious content.
If you enable this policy setting, SmartScreen Filter scans pages in this zone for malicious
content.
If you disable this policy setting, SmartScreen Filter does not scan pages in this zone for
malicious content.
If you do not configure this policy setting, the user can choose whether SmartScreen Filter
scans pages in this zone for malicious content.
Enabled:Enable.
Rationale:
Audit:
Remediation:
Enabled.
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Explorer\Internet Control Panel\Security Page\Locked-Down Trusted Sites Zone\Turn on
Impact:
References:
1. CCE-21070-8
8.11 Set 'Security Zones: Do not allow users to change policies' to

'Enabled' (Scored)
 Level 1
Description:
If you enable this policy setting, you disable the Custom Level button and Security level for
this zone slider on the Security tab in the Internet Options dialog box. If this policy setting
is disabled or not configured, users will be able to change the settings for security zones. It
prevents users from changing security zone policy settings that are established by the
administrator.
Note: If you enable the Disable the Security page setting (located in \User
Configuration\
Administrative Templates\Windows Components\Internet Explorer\Internet
Control Panel) the Security tab is removed from Internet Explorer in Control Panel and
the Disable setting takes precedence over this Security Zones: setting. The recommended
Rationale:
Users who change their Internet Explorer security settings could enable the execution of
dangerous types of code from the Internet and Web sites that were listed in the Restricted
Sites zone in the browser.
Audit:
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Settings\Security_options_edit
Remediation:
Enabled.

Explorer\Security Zones: Do not allow users to change policies
Default Value:
Disabled
References:
1. CCE-20539-3
8.12 Set 'Security Zones: Do not allow users to add/delete sites' to

'Enabled' (Scored)
 Level 1
Description:
Enable this policy setting to disable the site management settings for security zones. (To
see the site management settings for security zones, open Internet Explorer, select Tools
and then Internet Options, click the Security tab, and then click Sites.) If this policy setting
is disabled or not configured, users will be able to add or remove Web sites in the Trusted
Sites and Restricted Sites zones, as well as alter settings in the Local Intranet zone.
Note: If you enable the Disable the Security page setting (located in \User
Configuration\
Administrative Templates\Windows Components\Internet Explorer\Internet
Control Panel), the Security tab is removed from the interface and the Disable setting
takes precedence over this Security Zones: setting. The recommended state for this setting
is: Enabled.
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Rationale:
If you do not configure this policy setting, users will be able to add or remove sites from the
Trusted Sites and Restricted Sites zones at will and change settings in the Local Intranet
zone. This configuration could allow sites that host malicious mobile code to be added to
these zones, which users could execute.
Audit:
Settings\Security_zones_map_edit
Remediation:
Enabled.

Explorer\Security Zones: Do not allow users to add/delete sites
Impact:
Users will not be able to change site management settings for security zones that have been
established by the administrator. When users need to add or remove sites from these
Internet Explorer security zones, an administrator will have to configure them. Intranet
zone. This may impact some business applications if users access them using a URL that
appears to be from the Internet. For example, in order to utilize all of the capabilities of
Infopath Internet Explorer needs to run the content in the Intranet or Trusted Sites zone.
However, if URL provided is an IP address or a fully qualified domain name IE will instead
run it in the Internet zone. You can overcome issues such as this by adding the URLs to the
Trusted Sites zone.
Default Value:
Disabled
References:
1. CCE-21191-2
8.13 Set 'Security Zones: Use only machine settings' to 'Enabled' (Scored)
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 Level 1
Description:
This policy setting affects how security zone changes apply to different users. If you enable
this policy setting, changes that one user makes to a security zone will apply to all users of
that computer. If this policy setting is disabled or not configured, users of the same
computer are allowed to establish their own security zone settings. The recommended
Rationale:
Users who change their Internet Explorer security settings could enable the execution of
dangerous types of code from the Internet and Web sites that were listed in the Restricted
Sites zone in the browser.
Audit:
Settings\Security_HKLM_only
Remediation:
Enabled.

Explorer\Security Zones: Use only machine settings
Impact:
Users will not be able to configure security settings for Internet Explorer zones.
Default Value:
Disabled
References:
1. CCE-20951-0
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9 Additional Settings
9.1 Set 'Disable the Security page' to 'Enabled' (Scored)
 Level 1
Description:
This policy setting works in conjunction with other settings to ensure that users cannot
change the settings that are configured through Group Policy. This policy setting removes
the Security tab from the Internet Options dialog box. If you enable this policy setting, users
cannot view and change settings for security zones, such as scripting, downloads, and user
authentication. The recommended state for this setting is: Enabled.
Rationale:
Users could change some of the Internet Explorer security settings, which could enable
them to visit a malicious Web site and download or execute hostile code.
Audit:
Panel\SecurityTab
Remediation:
Enabled.

Explorer\Internet Control Panel\Disable the Security page
Impact:
Users will be unable to view the Security Page.
Default Value:
Disabled
References:
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1. CCE-20582-3
9.2 Set 'Disable the Advanced page' to 'Enabled' (Scored)

 Level 1
Description:
This policy setting works in conjunction with other settings to ensure that users cannot
change the settings that are configured in the Advanced tab of Internet Explorer. The
Rationale:
them to visit a malicious Web site and download or execute hostile code.
Audit:
Panel\AdvancedTab
Remediation:
Enabled.

Explorer\Internet Control Panel\Disable the Advanced page
Impact:
Users will no longer be able to access the Advanced page.
Default Value:
Disabled
References:
1. CCE-20359-6
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9.3 Set 'Prevent downloading of enclosures' to 'Enabled' (Scored)
 Level 1
Description:
This policy setting prevents the user from having enclosures (file attachments)
downloaded from a feed to the user's computer.
If you enable this policy setting, the user cannot set the Feed Sync Engine to download an
enclosure through the Feed property page. A developer cannot change the download
setting through the Feed APIs.
If you disable or do not configure this policy setting, the user can set the Feed Sync Engine
to download an enclosure through the Feed property page. A developer can change the
download setting through the Feed APIs. The recommended state for this setting is:
Enabled.
Rationale:
Enclosures could contain malicious payloads.
Audit:
Explorer\Feeds\DisableEnclosureDownload
Remediation:
Enabled.
Computer Configuration\Administrative Templates\Windows Components\RSS Feeds\Prevent

downloading of enclosures
References:
1. CCE-19881-2
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9.4 Set 'Turn on Basic feed authentication over HTTP' to 'Not
Configured' (Scored)
 Level 1
Description:
This policy setting allows users to have their feeds authenticated using the Basic
authentication scheme over an unencrypted HTTP connection.
If you enable this policy setting, the RSS Platform will authenticate to servers using the
Basic authentication scheme in combination with an insecure HTTP connection.
If you disable or do not configure this setting, the RSS Platform will not authenticate to
servers using the Basic authentication scheme in combination with an insecure HTTP
connection.
A developer cannot change this setting through the Feed APIs. The recommended state for
this setting is: Not Configured.
Rationale:
Allowing basic authentication over HTTP for RSS feeds means that user credentials will be
transmitted in plain text, they could be intercepted en route by a malicious user and either
altered or copied.
Audit:
Explorer\Feeds\AllowBasicAuthInClear
Remediation:
Not Configured.
Computer Configuration\Administrative Templates\Windows Components\RSS Feeds\Turn on

Basic feed authentication over HTTP
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References:
1. CCE-20274-7
9.5 Configure 'Make proxy settings per-machine (rather than per-user)'

(Not Scored)
 Level 1
Description:
Applies proxy settings to all users of the same computer.
If you enable this policy, users cannot set user-specific proxy settings. They must use the
zones created for all users of the computer.
If you disable this policy or do not configure it, users of the same computer can establish
their own proxy settings.
This policy is intended to ensure that proxy settings apply uniformly to the same computer
and do not vary from user to user.
This setting does not work when 32-bit versions of Internet Explorer are running on 64-bit
versions of Windows. See the Microsoft Knowledgebase article "You cannot access the
Internet through a proxy server when you use a 32-bit version of Internet Explorer on a
computer that is running a 64-bit version of Windows" for more information on the issue
and a method to work around it: http://support.microsoft.com/kb/952031. Configure this
organization.
Rationale:
Enabling this policy setting ensures that proxy settings are applied uniformly to all users of
the same computer.
Audit:
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Settings\ProxySettingsPerUser
Remediation:
Not Configured.

Explorer\Make proxy settings per-machine (rather than per-user)
References:
1. CCE-20774-6
9.6 Configure 'Do not display the reveal password button' (Not Scored)
 Level 1
Description:
This policy setting allows you to hide the reveal password button when Internet Explorer
prompts users for a password. The reveal password button is displayed during password
entry. When the user clicks the button, the current password value is visible until the
mouse button is released (or until the tap ends).
If you enable this policy setting, the reveal password button will be hidden for all password
fields. Users and developers will not be able to depend on the reveal password button
being displayed in any web form or web application.
If you disable or do not configure this policy setting, the reveal password button can be
shown by the application as a user types in a password. The reveal password button is
visible by default.
On Windows 8 and later, if the "Do not display the reveal password button" policy setting
located in Computer Configuration\Administrative Templates\Windows
Components\Credential User Interface is enabled for the system, it will override this policy
setting. Configure this setting in a manner that is consistent with security and operational
Rationale:
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This is a useful feature when entering a long and complex password, especially when using
a touchscreen. The potential risk is that someone else may see your password while
surreptitiously observing your screen.
Audit:
Explorer\Main\DisablePasswordReveal
Remediation:
Not Configured.

Explorer\Security Features\Do not display the reveal password button
References:
1. CCE-20555-9
9.7 Set 'Prevent changing proxy settings' to 'Enabled' (Scored)

 Level 1
Description:
This policy setting specifies if a user can change proxy settings.
If you enable this policy setting, the user will not be able to configure proxy settings.
If you disable or do not configure this policy setting, the user can configure proxy settings.
The recommended state for this setting is: Enabled.
Rationale:
Enabling this policy setting will prevent users from changing their proxy settings and
potentially bypassing restrictions placed on Internet Explorer security zones, see
http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/bb250483(v=VS.85).aspx for more information.
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Audit:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Policies\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Control Panel\Proxy
Remediation:
Enabled.

Explorer\Prevent changing proxy settings
References:
1. CCE-19750-9
9.8 Configure 'Disable changing Automatic Configuration settings' (Not

Scored)
 Level 1
Description:
This policy setting removes a user's ability to change automatically configured settings.
Administrators use automatic configuration to update browser settings periodically. If you
enable this policy setting, the automatic configuration settings are dimmed in Internet
Explorer. (These settings are located in the Automatic Configuration area of the LAN
Settings dialog box.) This policy setting also removes a user's ability to change settings that
are configured through Group Policy. To view the LAN Settings dialog box
1. Open the Internet Options dialog box, and click the Connections tab.
2. Click the LAN Settings button to view the settings.
Note: The Disable the Connections page setting removes the Connections tab from Internet
Explorer in Control Panel and takes precedence over this Disable changing Automatic
Configuration settings configuration option. If the former setting is enabled, the latter
setting is ignored. The Disable the Connections page setting is located in \User
Configuration
\Administrative Templates\Windows Components\Internet Explorer\Internet
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Control Panel in the Group Policy Object Editor. Configure this setting in a manner that is
consistent with security and operational requirements of your organization.
Rationale:
users to visit a malicious Web site and download or execute hostile code.
Audit:
Panel\Autoconfig
Remediation:
Not Configured.

Explorer\Disable changing Automatic Configuration settings
Impact:
Users will be unable to change the automatic configuration settings.
Default Value:
Disabled
References:
1. CCE-20943-7
9.9 Set 'Prevent "Fix settings" functionality' to 'Disabled' (Scored)

 Level 1
Description:
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This policy setting prevents users from performing the "Fix settings" functionality related
to the Security Settings Check in Internet Explorer. The recommended state for this setting
is: Disabled.
Rationale:
The "Fix settings" feature is an easy way for users to restore secure settings for Internet
Explorer should the settings be misconfigured in some way, disabling will prevent users
from quickly returning the browser to its default configuration.
Audit:
Explorer\Security\DisableFixSecuritySettings
Remediation:
Disabled.

Explorer\Prevent "Fix settings" functionality
Impact:
If you enable this policy setting, users cannot click the Fix Settings For Me option in the
Information bar context menu that appears when Internet Explorer determines that its
configuration is not secure.
Default Value:
Disabled
References:
1. CCE-19714-5
9.10 Set 'Turn off the Security Settings Check feature' to 'Disabled'
(Scored)
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 Level 1
Description:
This policy setting turns off the Security Settings Check feature, which checks Internet
Explorer security settings to determine when the settings put Internet Explorer at risk. The
recommended state for this setting is: Disabled.
Rationale:
If the Security Settings Check feature is disabled then users will not be warned if their
security settings are configured in such a way that Internet Explorer is at risk of
compromise.
Audit:
Explorer\Security\DisableSecuritySettingsCheck
Remediation:
Disabled.

Explorer\Turn off the Security Settings Check feature
Impact:
If you enable this policy setting, the security settings check will not be performed. If you
disable this policy setting, the security settings check will be performed. If you do not
configure this policy setting, the user will be able to change the "Disable Security Settings
Check" setting.
Default Value:
Disabled
References:
1. CCE-20366-1
9.11 Configure 'Disable changing connection settings' (Not Scored)

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 Level 1
Description:
This policy setting removes users' ability to change dial-up settings. If you enable this
policy setting, the Settings button on the Connections tab in the Internet Options dialog box
is dimmed. This policy setting also removes users' ability to change settings that are
configured through Group Policy. You may want to disable this policy setting for laptop
users if their travel requires them to change their connection settings. Configure this
organization.
Rationale:
Users could alter existing connections to make it impossible for them to use Internet
Explorer to browse some, or all, Web sites.
Audit:
prescribed.
Remediation:
Not Configured.

Explorer\Disable changing connection settings
Impact:
Users will be unable to change the connection settings.
Default Value:
Disabled
References:
1. CCE-21212-6
9.12 Set 'Turn off Crash Detection' to 'Enabled' (Scored)
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 Level 1
Description:
This policy setting allows you to manage the crash detection feature of add-on management
in Internet Explorer. If you enable this policy setting, a crash in Internet Explorer will be
similar to one on a computer that runs Windows XP Professional with Service Pack 1 (SP1)
or earlier: Windows Error Reporting will be invoked. If you disable this policy setting, the
crash detection feature in add-on management will be functional. If you experience
frequent repeated crashes and need to report them for follow-up troubleshooting, you
could temporarily configure the policy setting to Disabled. The recommended state for this
Rationale:
A crash report might contain sensitive information from the computer's memory.
Audit:
Explorer\Restrictions\NoCrashDetection
Remediation:
Enabled.

Explorer\Turn off Crash Detection
Impact:
Information about crashes that are caused by Internet Explorer add-ons will not be
reported to Microsoft. If you experience frequent repeated crashes and need to report them
to help troubleshoot the problem, the setting should temporarily be changed to Disabled.
Default Value:
Disabled
References:
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1. CCE-21284-5
9.13 Set 'Disable AutoComplete for forms' to 'Enabled' (Scored)

 Level 1
Description:
This policy setting controls automatic completion of fields in forms on Web pages. If you
enable this policy setting, the AutoComplete feature will not suggest possible choices for
completing a form. This can help protect sensitive data in certain environments. The
Rationale:
It is possible that this feature will cache sensitive data and store it in the user's profile
where it might not be protected as rigorously as required by organizational policy.
Audit:
HKEY_USERS\<SID>\Software\Policies\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Main\Use FormSuggest
Remediation:
Enabled.

Explorer\Disable AutoComplete for forms
Impact:
If you enable this policy setting, the AutoComplete feature will not suggest possible choices
for completing a form.
Default Value:
Disabled
References:
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1. CCE-20810-8
9.14 Set 'Turn on the auto-complete feature for user names and
passwords on forms' to 'Disabled' (Scored)
 Level 1
Description:
This AutoComplete feature can remember and suggest User names and passwords on
Forms.
If you enable this setting, the user cannot change "User name and passwords on forms" or
"prompt me to save passwords". The Auto Complete feature for User names and passwords
on Forms will be turned on. You have to decide whether to select "prompt me to save
passwords".
If you disable this setting the user cannot change "User name and passwords on forms" or
"prompt me to save passwords". The Auto Complete feature for User names and passwords
on Forms is turned off. The user also cannot opt to be prompted to save passwords.
If you do not configure this setting, the user has the freedom of turning on Auto complete
for User name and passwords on forms and the option of prompting to save passwords. To
display this option, the users open the Internet Options dialog box, click the Contents Tab
and click the Settings button. The recommended state for this setting is: Disabled.
Rationale:
It is possible that malware could be developed which would be able to extract the cached
user names and passwords from the currently logged on user, which an attacker could then
use to compromise that user's online accounts.
Audit:
HKEY_USERS\<SID>\Software\Policies\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Main\FormSuggest
Passwords
Remediation:
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Disabled.
User Configuration\Administrative Templates\Windows Components\Internet Explorer\Turn

on the auto-complete feature for user names and passwords on forms
Impact:
If you disable this policy setting, the check boxes for User Names and Passwords on Forms
and Prompt Me to Save Passwords are dimmed and users are prevented from saving
passwords locally.
Default Value:
Disabled
References:
1. CCE-20145-9
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Appendix: Change History
Date Version Changes for this version
02-01-2012 1.0.0 Initial Release
11-26-2014 1.1.0 Ticket #1: Typo's in items 3.1, 3.3, 3.4, 3.6
and 3.7
11-26-2014 1.1.0 Ticket #3: 5.1 Configure 'Secure Protocol

combinations' - Set to Scored; Disable weak
protocols
187 | P a g e

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CIS Microsoft Internet Explorer 10

CIS SECURITY BENCHMARKS TERMS OF USE

BOTH CIS SECURITY BENCHMARKS DIVISION MEMBERS AND NON-MEMBERS MAY:

UNDER THE FOLLOWING TERMS AND CONDITIONS:

Italic font Used to denote the title of a book, article, or other

Note Additional information or caveats

Items in this profile intend to:

o be practical and prudent;

Enhanced Protected Mode provides additional protection against malicious websites by

Enhanced Protected Mode provides additional protection against malicious websites by

Computer Configuration\Administrative Templates\Windows Components\Internet

Computer Configuration\Administrative Templates\Windows Components\Internet

Computer Configuration\Administrative Templates\Windows Components\Internet

Users cannot navigate to sites detected as unsafe by the SmartScreen Filter.

Computer Configuration\Administrative Templates\Windows Components\Internet

User Configuration\Administrative Templates\Windows Components\Internet

Per-user installation of ActiveX controls is a convenient feature that many organizations

Computer Configuration\Administrative Templates\Windows Components\Internet

2.3 Set 'Turn on ActiveX Filtering' to 'Enabled' (Scored)

Computer Configuration\Administrative Templates\Windows Components\Internet

2.4 Set 'Turn off ActiveX opt-in prompt' to 'Disabled' (Scored)

Computer Configuration\Administrative Templates\Windows Components\Internet

Enhanced Protected Mode provides additional protection against malicious websites by

Computer Configuration\Administrative Templates\Windows Components\Internet

Computer Configuration\Administrative Templates\Windows Components\Internet

3.2 Configure 'Prevent Deleting Cookies' (Not Scored)

Computer Configuration\Administrative Templates\Windows Components\Internet

3.3 Set 'Disable "Configuring History"' to 'Enabled' (Scored)

Computer Configuration\Administrative Templates\Windows Components\Internet

3.4 Set 'Days to keep pages in History' to '40' (Scored)

The browsing history may increase an organization' s ability to determine if a user

Computer Configuration\Administrative Templates\Windows Components\Internet

3.5 Configure 'Prevent Deleting Temporary Internet Files' (Not Scored)

Computer Configuration\Administrative Templates\Windows Components\Internet

3.6 Configure 'Allow deleting browsing history on exit' (Not Scored)

Computer Configuration\Administrative Templates\Windows Components\Internet

Computer Configuration\Administrative Templates\Windows Components\Internet

3.8 Configure 'Turn off InPrivate Browsing' (Not Scored)

4.1 Configure 'URL to be displayed for updates:' (Not Scored)

4.2 Set 'Update check interval (in days):' to 'Enabled:30' (Scored)

Computer Configuration\Administrative Templates\Windows Components\Internet

4.3 Configure 'Automatically check for Internet Explorer updates' (Not

Computer Configuration\Administrative Templates\Windows Components\Internet

4.4 Configure 'Install new versions of Internet Explorer automatically'

Computer Configuration\Administrative Templates\Windows Components\Internet

Computer Configuration\Administrative Templates\Windows Components\Internet

5.2 Set 'Check for server certificate revocation' to 'Enabled' (Scored)

Computer Configuration\Administrative Templates\Windows Components\Internet

5.3 Set 'Check for signatures on downloaded programs' to 'Enabled'

Computer Configuration\Administrative Templates\Windows Components\Internet

5.4 Set 'Turn on certificate address mismatch warning' to 'Enabled'

Computer Configuration\Administrative Templates\Windows Components\Internet

5.5 Set 'Prevent ignoring certificate errors' to 'Enabled' (Scored)

When a user experiences Secure Socket Layer/Transport Layer Security (SSL/TLS)

Computer Configuration\Administrative Templates\Windows Components\Internet

5.6 Set 'Disable changing certificate settings' to 'Enabled' (Scored)

User Configuration\Administrative Templates\Windows Components\Internet

Users will be unable to change the certificate settings.

Computer Configuration\Administrative Templates\Windows Components\Internet