Inappropriate user with Modify Firmware Environment Values privilege

Risk Level: High risk vulnerability  High

Check or Attack Name: System Environment Privilege

Platforms: Windows NT
Description:

A user has been detected with Modify Firmware Environment Values privileges. This right is normally only granted to Administrators, and can be used to obtain higher access levels.

Remedy:

Verify Advanced user rights in User Manager.

To audit and revoke this privilege, follow these steps:

  1. Open User Manager. From the Windows NT Start menu, select Programs, Administrative Tools (Common), User Manager.
  2. From the Policies menu, select User Rights to display the User Rights dialog box.
  3. Select the Show Advanced User Rights check box.
  4. From the Right list, select Modify firmware environment values.
  5. Verify this right is set in accordance with your security policy.
  6. To remove a user, select the user and click Remove.
References:

Microsoft Knowledge Base Article Q101366, Definition and List of Windows NT Advanced User Rights, http://support.microsoft.com/support/kb/articles/q101/3/66.asp


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