NIST 800-171 3.1.7: Prevent Unauthorized Privileged Function Execution
Privileged function execution represents a critical attack surface in federal compliance frameworks. NIST SP 800-171 control 3.1.7 requires your organization to restrict these high-risk operations to authorized users only, while maintaining complete audit trails. Without proper controls, a single compromised credential can grant attackers system-wide access.
What this means
This control mandates two complementary requirements: (1) enforce technical and administrative controls that prevent non-privileged users from executing functions reserved for administrators, system owners, or other authorized personnel, and (2) log and audit all privileged function execution to maintain accountability and detect unauthorized attempts. This applies to OS commands, application administrative features, data modifications, and security-relevant operations.
How to comply
- 1.Implement role-based access control (RBAC) that explicitly maps users to privilege levels and restrict privileged function availability in system interfaces
- 2.Configure operating system and application settings to deny privilege escalation except through approved channels (sudo, UAC, service accounts)
- 3.Enforce multi-factor authentication (MFA) or additional authorization steps before executing sensitive functions
- 4.Enable comprehensive audit logging for all privileged function attempts, including successful execution and failed attempts
- 5.Monitor and review audit logs regularly for unauthorized privilege escalation attempts or suspicious patterns
- 6.Document which functions require privilege elevation and maintain an inventory of users with elevated access
- 7.Implement session logging for privileged sessions to capture commands and actions taken
Evidence auditors look for
- Role-based access control configuration files showing user-to-privilege mappings
- Operating system audit logs capturing privileged function execution attempts and results
- MFA or additional authorization requirement documentation for privileged operations
- Audit trail exports showing timestamp, user, function executed, and success/failure status
- System hardening configurations restricting privilege escalation paths
- Privileged user access inventory with justification and approval records
- Session logs or command recording for privileged administrative sessions
Frequently asked questions
When will FAQs be available?
The FAQ for this control is currently being prepared.
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