8.4 Ensure ETag Response Header Fields Do Not Include Inodes

Information

The 'FileETag' directive configures the file attributes that are used to create the 'ETag' (entity tag) response header field when the document is based on a static file. The 'ETag' value is used in cache management to save network bandwidth. The value returned may be based on combinations of the file 'inode', the modification time, and the file size.

Rationale:

When the 'FileETag' is configured to include the file 'inode' number, remote attackers may be able to discern the inode number from returned values. The 'inode' is considered sensitive information, as it could be useful in assisting in other attacks.

Solution

Perform the following to implement the recommended state:
Remove all instances of the FileETag directive. Alternatively, add or modify the 'FileETag' directive in the server and each virtual host configuration to have either the value 'None' or 'MTime Size'.

See Also

https://workbench.cisecurity.org/files/2381

Item Details

Category: CONFIGURATION MANAGEMENT

References: 800-53|CM-6, CSCv6|18.9, CSCv7|13.2

Plugin: Unix

Control ID: 6abac08f95bfd80e077fb99a9fc4e5a9163f58d8bd73e328681ed7f07a287e81