V-215800

Discussion

Use of weak or untested encryption algorithms undermines the purposes of utilizing encryption to protect data. The network element must implement cryptographic modules adhering to the higher standards approved by the federal government since this provides assurance they have been tested and validated. This requirement applies only to ALGs that provide encryption intermediary services (e.g., HTTPS, TLS, or DNSSEC).

Check Content

If the BIG-IP Core does not provide encryption intermediary services (e.g., HTTPS, TLS, or DNSSEC) for virtual servers, this is not applicable.

When encryption intermediary services are provided, verify the BIG-IP Core is configured to use NIST FIPS-validated cryptography to implement encryption services.

Navigate to the BIG-IP System manager >> Local traffic >> Profiles >> SSL >> Client.

Verify a profile exists that is FIPS Compliant.

Select a FIPS-compliant profile.

Select "Advanced" next to "Configuration".

Verify "Ciphers" under "Configuration" section is configured to use FIPS-compliant ciphers.

Verify applicable virtual servers are configured in the BIG-IP LTM to use a FIPS-compliant client profile:

Navigate to the BIG-IP System manager >> Local Traffic >> Virtual Servers >> Virtual Servers List tab.

Select Virtual Servers(s) from the list to verify.

Verify under "Configuration" section, that a FIPS-compliant profile is in the "Selected" area of "SSL Profile (Client)".

If the BIG-IP Core is not configured to use NIST FIPS-validated cryptography to implement encryption services, this is a finding.