2.2.4.7.2.12 Ensure 'Store macro in Personal Macro Workbook by default' is set to 'Enabled'

Information

This policy setting controls the default location for storing macros in Excel. The Record Macro dialog box includes a drop-down menu that allows users to choose whether to store the new macro in the current workbook, a new workbook, or their personal macro workbook (Personal.xlsb), a hidden workbook that opens every time Excel starts.

The recommended state for this setting is: Enabled.

Rationale:

Excel displays the Record Macro dialog box with This Workbook already selected in the drop-down menu. If a user saves a macro in the active workbook and then distributes the workbook to others, the macro is distributed along with the workbook, which could put workbook data at risk if the macro is triggered accidentally or intentionally.

Impact:

Enabling this setting does not prevent users from selecting a different location for storing macros, so it is unlikely to cause significant usability issues for most users.

Solution

To establish the recommended configuration via GP, set the following UI path to Enabled.

User Configuration\Administrative Templates\Microsoft Excel 2016\Excel Options\Security\Trust Center\Store Macro In Personal Macro Workbook by Default

Default Value:

Disabled. (Macros are stored in the originating workbook.)

See Also

https://workbench.cisecurity.org/benchmarks/12129

Item Details

Category: CONFIGURATION MANAGEMENT, SYSTEM AND INFORMATION INTEGRITY

References: 800-53|CM-7, 800-53|CM-7(1), 800-53|SI-7, 800-53|SI-7(1)

Plugin: Windows

Control ID: ac2d60a439122c4f5709019d6151957d2a186f1f29a92ed62f470627ecc97d8d