From Audit to Pentest
Phase 1: Develop a Security Policy
Background
Company: SecureTech Solutions
SecureTech Solutions is a fictitious cybersecurity consultancy specializing in securing IT infrastructures for various clients. This example demonstrates the process of developing a security policy for Linux servers, conducting a risk assessment using the NIST SP 800-53 framework, performing a security audit, and testing the remediation efforts. It highlights the importance of compliance with industry standards throughout this process.
Objectives
The goal is to establish a baseline security policy for Linux servers that aligns with the NIST SP 800-53 guidelines. This policy ensures that servers are configured and managed securely, protecting them from unauthorized access, vulnerabilities, and other security threats. It will serve as the foundation for configuring, maintaining, and monitoring Linux servers within the organization, ensuring compliance with industry standards.
Requirements Gathering
Purpose: Define the scope and purpose of the security policy, focusing on securing Linux servers.
Access Control: Outline user account management, authentication methods, and privilege management strategies to ensure secure access.
Audit and Accountability: Specify logging requirements and review procedures to monitor system activities effectively.
Configuration Management: Set baseline configurations, software update practices, and change management protocols to maintain system integrity.
Identification and Authentication: Enforce strong password policies and ensure unique user identification for secure access control.
System and Information Integrity: Implement measures such as malware protection, security monitoring, and vulnerability management to safeguard system integrity.
Maintenance: Define controlled maintenance practices, including the use of approved maintenance tools to minimize security risks.
Phase 2: Security Auditing with Lynis
The objective of this phase is to perform a security audit on a Linux server using Lynis, identify any vulnerabilities, and remediate them according to the established security policy.
The first step is to install Lynis on the Linux server. Once installed, a Lynis audit scan is conducted on the target server, generating a detailed report that highlights security issues and provides recommendations. After reviewing the report, the identified vulnerabilities are remediated—such as updating software or enforcing stronger password policies. The final step involves documenting the remediation actions and updating the security policy to reflect these changes, ensuring continuous alignment with best practices.
Step 1: Download and Install Lynis
Step 2: Use Lynis
Phase 3: Conduct Pentest
The objective of this phase is to validate the effectiveness of the remediation actions by performing a penetration test, ensuring that the Linux server is secure and compliant with the security policy.
First, the penetration test is executed by conducting a network scan using Nmap to identify open ports and services, followed by vulnerability scanning with Metasploit to discover and exploit potential weaknesses. If applicable, Burp Suite is used to test web applications for security flaws.
Next, the results of the penetration test are compared to the initial security audit findings to confirm that vulnerabilities have been addressed. Any new vulnerabilities introduced during remediation are also identified and resolved.
Finally, a detailed report is created. It includes an executive summary of the test, a description of the tools and techniques used, a summary of findings with their severity and impact, and recommendations to further secure the system.
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