CM-8(3) Automated Unauthorized Component Detection

Control enhancement of CM-8 System Component Inventory

Control

(a)

Detect the presence of unauthorized hardware, software, and firmware components within the system using [Assignment: organization-defined automated mechanisms] [Assignment: frequency] ; and

(b)

Take the following actions when unauthorized components are detected: [Assignment: Selection (one-or-more): disable network access by unauthorized components | isolate unauthorized components | notify [cm-08.03_odp.06] ].

Discussion

Automated unauthorized component detection is applied in addition to the monitoring for unauthorized remote connections and mobile devices. Monitoring for unauthorized system components may be accomplished on an ongoing basis or by the periodic scanning of systems for that purpose. Automated mechanisms may also be used to prevent the connection of unauthorized components (see [CM-7(9)](#cm-7.9) ). Automated mechanisms can be implemented in systems or in separate system components. When acquiring and implementing automated mechanisms, organizations consider whether such mechanisms depend on the ability of the system component to support an agent or supplicant in order to be detected since some types of components do not have or cannot support agents (e.g., IoT devices, sensors). Isolation can be achieved , for example, by placing unauthorized system components in separate domains or subnets or quarantining such components. This type of component isolation is commonly referred to as "sandboxing."

Related controls

Need CM-8(3) implemented and evidenced?

We assess where you stand against this control, document the gap, and build the remediation plan your auditor and your board will both accept.

Request an assessment

Control catalog and framework text on this page is reproduced from official NIST publications — a public-domain work of the U.S. Government (17 U.S.C. §105). Maverc commentary, groupings, and readiness guidance are our own and are not part of any NIST publication.