1.9.6.1.3 Ensure 'Do not allow Outlook object model scripts to run for public folders' is set to Enabled

Information

This policy setting controls whether Outlook executes scripts that are associated with custom forms or folder home pages for public folders.
If you enable this policy setting, Outlook cannot execute any scripts associated with public folders, overriding any configuration changes on users' computers.
If you disable or do not configure this policy setting Outlook will automatically run any scripts associated with custom forms or folder home pages for public folders. The recommended state for this setting is: Enabled.

Rationale:

In Outlook, folders can be associated with custom forms or folder home pages that include scripts that access the Outlook object model. These scripts can add functionality to the folders and items contained within, but dangerous scripts can pose security risks.

By default, Outlook allows scripts included in custom forms or folder home pages for public folders to execute. If users inadvertently run dangerous scripts when using public folders, their computers or data could be at risk.

Solution

To implement the recommended configuration state, set the following Group Policy setting to Enabled.

User Configuration\Administrative Templates\Microsoft Outlook 2013\Outlook Options\Other\Advanced\Do not allow Outlook object model scripts to run for public folders

Impact:

If your organization uses custom forms or public folder home pages that contain scripts, enabling this setting can reduce their functionality or render them unusable. Consider surveying your organization's public folders for affected items before you enable this setting.

See Also

https://workbench.cisecurity.org/files/552

Item Details

Category: CONFIGURATION MANAGEMENT

References: 800-53|CM-6b.

Plugin: Windows

Control ID: 6224050206cd6e99870c238cb834f729319d0b08f3bab814714099c9d76e1dae