IA.L2-3.5.9: Temporary Password Management for CMMC Level 2
Temporary passwords create a security gap if not properly managed. CMMC Level 2 requires immediate mandatory changes to permanent passwords upon first system logon. This control prevents credential reuse and reduces the window of exposure for default or temporary credentials.
What this means
Organizations must allow temporary passwords for initial system access while enforcing an immediate, non-negotiable change to a permanent password before any other system activity. This practice ensures that shared or default credentials are replaced with user-unique passwords immediately upon first use, reducing lateral movement risk and accountability gaps.
How to comply
- 1.Configure authentication systems to generate temporary passwords for new user accounts or credential resets
- 2.Enforce password change prompts at first logon before granting access to any system resources
- 3.Set temporary passwords to expire within a defined window (e.g., 24 hours) if not changed
- 4.Require permanent passwords to meet complexity, length, and history requirements
- 5.Log all temporary password issuance and first-logon password changes for audit trails
- 6.Disable or lock temporary passwords after successful permanent password creation
Evidence auditors look for
- Authentication system logs showing temporary password issuance and first-logon password changes
- User access control policies documenting mandatory password change requirements
- Screenshots of password reset workflows enforcing immediate permanent password creation
- Password history reports confirming no reuse of temporary credentials
- System configuration files showing temporary password expiration settings
- Audit logs documenting failed attempts to use temporary passwords after password change
Frequently asked questions
When will FAQs be available?
The FAQ for this control is currently being prepared.
GRCWatch automates temporary password lifecycle management, enforcing immediate permanent password changes at first logon and capturing all password change events as audit evidence for CMMC assessors.
See how GRCWatch handles this control automatically
Start free trial