2.3.3 Ensure talk client is not installed

Information

The talk software makes it possible for users to send and receive messages across systems
through a terminal session. The talk client, which allows initialization of talk sessions, is
installed by default.

Rationale:

The software presents a security risk as it uses unencrypted protocols for communication.

Solution

Uninstall talk using the appropriate package manager or manual installation:

yum remove talk

apt-get remove talk

zypper remove talk

Impact:

Many insecure service clients are used as troubleshooting tools and in testing
environments. Uninstalling them can inhibit capability to test and troubleshoot. If they are
required it is advisable to remove the clients after use to prevent accidental or intentional
misuse.

See Also

https://workbench.cisecurity.org/files/2420

Item Details

Category: CONFIGURATION MANAGEMENT

References: 800-53|CM-11, CSCv6|2, CSCv7|2.6

Plugin: Unix

Control ID: 2625c652453f6062cb1f99164903205c96c3afe69cee0452ddbaf1726158d5c3