NIST 800-171 Control 3.14.5: Malicious Code Scanning
Malicious code scanning is a critical safeguard against threats that exploit your systems and data. Control 3.14.5 requires both scheduled scans and real-time monitoring of external files to detect and block malware before it can cause damage. For SMBs handling controlled unclassified information, this control is non-negotiable.
What this means
This control requires you to implement two-layer scanning: periodic scans of all organizational systems on a defined schedule, and real-time scanning that triggers automatically when files are downloaded, opened, or executed from external sources. The goal is to detect malicious code at both scheduled checkpoints and at the moment of file interaction, minimizing the window of vulnerability.
How to comply
- 1.Deploy endpoint protection software with malware scanning capabilities across all systems
- 2.Configure periodic system scans to run on a defined schedule (daily or weekly recommended)
- 3.Enable real-time scanning on all file downloads and external source interactions
- 4.Set up scanning triggers for file opens and executions from external sources
- 5.Define and enforce policies on acceptable external file sources
- 6.Document your scanning schedule, tools, and configurations
- 7.Maintain logs of scan results and detected threats
- 8.Review and update scanning signatures and threat definitions regularly
Evidence auditors look for
- Endpoint protection policy documenting scan frequency and scope
- Antivirus or anti-malware solution configuration showing real-time scanning enabled
- System logs showing periodic scans executed on schedule
- Real-time scan logs with timestamp records of files scanned at download/open/execution
- Threat detection logs showing identified malicious code and remediation actions
- Configuration screenshots of enabled real-time protection features
- Audit records of scanning tool updates and signature refreshes
Frequently asked questions
When will FAQs be available?
The FAQ for this control is currently being prepared.
GRCWatch automates the configuration, scheduling, and logging of malicious code scans across your environment, and centralizes real-time detection alerts so you can demonstrate continuous 3.14.5 compliance without manual intervention.
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