Security Glossary - Anne & Lynn Wheeler

Fastpath

access control, assurance, attack, audit, authentication, authorization, automated information system, availability, certification, Common Criteria for Information Technology Security, cryptography, evaluation, identity, key management, privacy, requirements, risk, risk management, security, security target, software development, threat, trust, Trusted Computer System Evaluation Criteria, user,

3DES AADS ABC ACC ACH ACL ACO ADM ADP AE AH AICPA AIG AIN AIN AIRK AIS AJ AJP AK AKDC AKD/RCU AKMC AKMS ALC AMPS AMS AMS ANDVT ANSI AOSS APC API API APU ARPANET ASCII ASIM ASN.1 ASPJ ASSIST ASU ATM AUP AUTH AUTODIN AV AVP BBS BCA BCI BCP BER BIA BIN BLP BPI BPR BS7799 C2 C2W C3 C3I C4 CA C&A CA CA CAAT CADS CAPI CASE CAW CAW CBC CC1 CC2 CC CCA CCEP CCI CCITSE CCO CCTL CCTP CDMA CDS CDSA CDSA CEM CEOI CEPR CER CER CERT CERT CFB CFD CGI CHAP CIAC CIAC CIK CIK CIO CIP CIPSO CIRK CIRT CISSP CK CKG CKL CM CMCS CNA CNCS CND CNK COAST COBIT CoCo COCOMO COMPUSEC COMSEC CONOP COPS COR COR COSO COTS CPM CPS CPS CPU CRAM CRC CRL CRP CSE CSIRC CSIRT CSOR CSP CSP CSS CSS CSS CSS CSSM CSSO CSTVRP CTAK CTCPEC CT&E CTTA CUP DA DAA DAA DAA DAC DAC DAMA DASD DASS DBA DBMS DCE DCID DCL DCS DCS DCSP DD DDL DDoS DDP DDS DEA DEK DES DFD DIAP DIB DII DISN DITSCAP DLED DMA DML DMS DMZ DN DNS DOI DoS DPL DSA DSN DSS DSS DSVT DTD DTLS DTS DUA EA EAL EAM EAP EBT ECB ECC ECCM ECDSA ECM ECPL EDAC EDC EDESPL EDI EDM EDMS EES EFD EFP EFT EFTO EFTS EGADS EIS EISA EKMS ELINT ELSEC EMC EMI EMRT EMSEC EMSEC EMV EP EPL EQA ERP ERTZ ES ESA ESP ETL ETPL EUC EUCI EV EW FAX FCv1 FDDI FDIU FDMA FEP FIPS140 FIPS FIRST FNBDT FOCI FOUO FPC FPKI FSM FSRS FSTS FTAM FTLS FTP FTS GAO GCA GCCS GETS GIG GNIE GPS GRIP GSS-API GSSP GTS GUI GULS GWEN HDM HIPO HMAC HTML HTTP HUS HUSK I&A I&A IA IAB IANA IBAC IC ICANN ICMP ICQ ICRL ICU IDEA IDIOT IDS IEEE IEMATS IESG IETF IFF IFFN IIA IIRK IKE ILS IMAP4 INFOSEC INFOSEC IO I/O IP IPM IPRA IPsec IPSO IR IRK IRR IS ISA ISACA ISACF ISAKMP ISD ISDN IS/IT ISO ISO ISOC ISP ISS ISSA ISSE ISSM ISSO ISSO IT ITAR ITF ITSEC ITSEC ITU IUT IV IW KAK KDC KEA KEK KEK KG KMASE KMC KMI KMID KMID KMODC KMP KMPDU KMS KMSA KMUA KP KPK KSD KSOS KTC KVG L2F L2TP LAN LDAP LEAD LEAF LKG LMD LMD/KP LME LMI LOCK LOTOS LPC LPD LPI LRIP LSI MAC MAC MAD MAN MAN MATSYM MCA MCCB MDC MEECN MEI MEP MER MHS MI MIB MIJI MIME MINTERM MIPS MISPC MISSI MLS MNS MOSS MRT MSE MSP MTBF MTBO MTSR MTTF MTTR NACAM NACSI NACSIM NAK NAT NCCD NCS NCS NCS NCSC NCSC/TG004 NIAP NIC NII NISAC NIST NKSR NLSP NLZ NORA NPV NQA NSA NSAD NSD NSDD 145 NSDD NSEP NSI NSO NSTAC NSTISSAM NSTISSC NSTISSD NSTISSI NSTISSP NTCB NTIA NTISSAM NTISSD NTISSD NTISSI NTISSP NVLAP OADR OCR OCSP OFAC OFB OID OOP OPCODE OPSEC ORA OSE OSI OSI OSIRM OTAD OTAR OTAT OTP OTP OTT P1363 P2P PAA PAAP PAD PAE PAIIN PAIN PAL PAN PAP PBX PC PCA PCMCIA PCO PCT PCZ PDA PDCA PDR PDS PDS PDU PEM PERT PES PGP PIN PIV PKA PKC PKCS PKI PKSD PNE PNEK POP3 POS PP PPD PPL PPP PPS PPTP PRBAC PROM PROPIN PSE PSL PSYOP PTM PWDS QA QA/QC QC QFD QOP RA RACE RAD RADIUS RAID RAM RAMP RBAC RC2 RC4 RFC RFI RFP RJE ROM RPC RQT RSA RSA SA SABI SAID SAISS SAML SAO SAP SAP SAR SARK SASL SBU SCA SCADA SCI SCIF SCM SDE SDLC SDNRIU SDNS SDR SDSI SENV SET SF SFA SFP SFUG SHA-1 SHA S-HTTP SI SIGSEC SILS SIO SISS SKIP SMDS SMI S/MIME SML SMTP SMU SNMP SOF SP3 SP4 SPC SPC SPI SPI SPK SPKI SPKI/SDSI SPS SQA SQL SRA SRR SS-7 SSAA SSH SSL SSL SSO SSO SSP SSPI SSSO ST STD STE ST&E STS STU SUT SV SV&V SWOT TA TACACS+ TACTED TACTERM TAG TCB TCD TCP TCP/IP TCSEC TCSEC TD TDMA TED TEK TEP TESS TFM TFS TLS TLS TLSO TLSP TNI TNIEG TOE TPC TPEP TPI TQM TRANSEC TRB TRI-TAC TSA TSC TSCM TSEC TSF TSFI TSIG TSK TSP TTR UA UDP UIRK UIS UORA UPP UPS URI URL URN USDE VAN VPN V&V W3 WAIS WAN WAP WBS WWW XDM/X XML

Terms

*-property

(N) (Pronounced 'star property'.) See: 'confinement property' under Bell-LaPadula model. [RFC2828] (see also confinement property, model, Bell-LaPadula security model)

2-factor authentication

Authentication processing using two factors, typically: 'something you have' and 'something you know'. [misc] (see also 3-factor authentication)

3-factor authentication

Authentication processing using three factors:

something you have
something you know
something you are

ABA Guidelines

(N) 'American Bar Association (ABA) Digital Signature Guidelines', a framework of legal principles for using digital signatures and digital certificates in electronic commerce. [RFC2828] (see also certificate, digital signature)

abend

An unexpected processing termination that may indicate that program coding was incorrectly performed and that earlier testing was not adequate or not adequately controlled. Abend stands for abnormal ending. [SRV] (see also failure, test)

abort

The termination of computer program execution prior to its completion. [SRV] (see also failure)

Abrams, Jojodia, Podell essays (AJP)

M. Abrams, S. Jajodia, and H. Podell, eds, Information Security An Integrated Collection of Essays, IEEE Computer Society Press, January 1995. [AJP] (see also security)

Abstract Syntax Notation One (ASN.1)

(N) A standard for describing data objects. (C) OSI standards use ASN.1 to specify data formats for protocols. OSI defines functionality in layers. Information objects at higher layers are abstractly defined to be implemented with objects at lower layers. A higher layer may define transfers of abstract objects between computers, and a lower layer may define transfers concretely as strings of bits. Syntax is needed to define abstract objects, and encoding rules are needed to transform between abstract objects and bit strings. (C) In ASN.1, formal names are written without spaces, and separate words in a name are indicated by capitalizing the first letter of each word except the first word. For example, the name of a CRL is 'certificateRevocationList'. [RFC2828] (see also certificate, public-key infrastructure) (includes Basic Encoding Rules, Distinguished Encoding Rules, object identifier)

abuse of privilege

When a user performs an action that they should not have, according to organizational policy or law. [AFSEC] (see also threat)

acceptable level of risk

A judicious and carefully considered assessment by the appropriate authority that a computing activity or network meets the minimum requirements of applicable security directives. The assessment should take into account the value of assets; threats and vulnerabilities; countermeasures and operational requirements. [AFSEC] The level of risk that the organization line manager decides is tolerable. This decision is based on an analysis of threats and vulnerabilities, the sensitivity of data and applications, and cost/benefit, technical, and operational feasibility of available controls. However, some installations are critical to the organization's mission or have the potential to cause the loss of human life or serious injury to humans. For these installations, management may consider controls for implementation that are not cost effective. [NASA] (see also assessment, countermeasure, networks, threat)

acceptable risk

A concern that is acceptable to responsible management, due to the cost and magnitude of implementing security controls. [800-37] The level of Residual Risk that has been determined to be a reasonable level of potential loss/disruption for a specific IT system. [CIAO] (see also risk)

acceptable use policy (AUP)

A set of rules and guidelines that specify in more or less detail the expectations in regard to appropriate use of systems or networks. [RFC2504] It documents permitted system uses and activities for a specific user, and the consequences of noncompliance. [FFIEC] This refers to policies that restrict the way in which a network may be used. Usually, a network administrator makes and enforces decisions dealing with acceptable use. [AFSEC] (see also networks, policy)

acceptance criteria

The criteria that a system or component must satisfy in order to be accepted by a user, customer, or other authorized entity. [IEEE610] (see also authorized, acceptance procedure)

acceptance inspection

The final inspection to determine whether or not a facility or system meets the specified technical and performance standards. Note: this inspection is held immediately after facility and software testing and is the basis for commissioning or accepting the information system. [AJP][NCSC/TG004] (see also security testing, software, test, acceptance procedure)

acceptance procedure

A procedure which takes objects produced during the development, production, and maintenance processes for a Target of Evaluation and, as a positive act, places them under the controls of a Configuration Control system. [AJP][ITSEC] (see also control system, software development, target of evaluation) (includes acceptance criteria, acceptance inspection, acceptance testing, object)

acceptance testing

Formal testing conducted to determine whether or not a system satisfies its acceptance criteria and to enable the customer to determine whether or not to accept the system. [IEEE610] Testing to determine whether products meet the requirements specified in the contract or by the user. [SRV] (see also acceptance procedure, security testing, test)

access

(1) A specific type of interaction between a subject and an object that results in the flow of information from one to the other. (2) The ability and the means necessary to approach, to store or retrieve data, to communicate with, or to make use of any resource of an ADP system. [TNI] (1) The ability and means to communicate with (i.e. input to or receive output from) or otherwise make use of any information, resource, or component in an information technology (IT) product. (2) A specific type of interaction between a subject and an object that results in the flow of information from one to the other. Note: An individual does not have 'access' if the proper authority or a physical, technical, or procedural measure prevents him or her from obtaining knowledge or having an opportunity to alter information, material, resources, or components. [AJP] (I) The ability and means to communicate with or otherwise interact with a system in order to use system resources to either handle information or gain knowledge of the information the system contains. (O) 'A specific type of interaction between a subject and an object that results in the flow of information from one to the other.' (C) In this Glossary, 'access' is intended to cover any ability to communicate with a system, including one-way communication in either direction. In actual practice, however, entities outside a security perimeter that can receive output from the system but cannot provide input or otherwise directly interact with the system, might be treated as not having 'access' and, therefore, be exempt from security policy requirements, such as the need for a security clearance. [RFC2828] 1) The right to enter or use a system and its resources; to read, write, modify, or delete data; or to use software processes or network bandwidth. 2) Opportunity to make use of an information system (IS) resource. [CIAO] A specific type of interaction between a subject and an object that results in the flow of information from one to the other. [NCSC/TG004][TCSEC] A specific type of interaction between a subject and an object that results in the flow of information from one to the other. A subject's right to use an object. [SRV] Ability and means to communicate with (i.e. input to or receive output from), or otherwise make use of any information, resource, or component in an Information Technology (IT) Product. Note: An individual does not have 'access' if the proper authority or a physical, technical, or procedural measure prevents them from obtaining knowledge or having an opportunity to alter information, material, resources, or components. [FCv1] Opportunity to make use of an information system (IS) resource. [CNSSI] (see also access control) (includes delete access, execute access, merge access, object, read access, remote access, subject, update access)

access category

One of the classes to which a user, program, or process may be assigned on the basis of the resources or groups of resources that each user, program, or process is authorized to use. [SRV] (see also authorized, access control)

access control

(1) The limiting of rights or capabilities of a subject to communicate with other subjects, or to use functions or services in a system or network. (2) Restrictions controlling a subject's access to an object. [TNI] (1) The process of limiting access to the resources of an information technology (IT) product only to authorized users, programs, processes, systems (in a network), or other IT products. (Synonymous with controlled access and limited access.) (2) The limiting of rights or capabilities of a subject to communicate with other subjects, or to use functions or services in a system or network. (3) Restrictions controlling a subject's access to an object. [AJP] (I) Protection of system resources against unauthorized access; a process by which use of system resources is regulated according to security policy and is permitted by only authorized entities (users, programs, processes, or other systems) according to that policy. (O) 'The prevention of unauthorized use of a resource, including the prevention of use of a resource in an unauthorized manner.' [RFC2828] 1) Limiting access to information system resources to authorized users, programs, processes, or other systems only. 2) Procedures and controls that limit or detect access to MEI Resource Elements (People, Technology, Applications, Data and/or Facilities) thereby protecting these resources against loss of Integrity, Confidentiality Accountability and/or Availability. [CIAO] A security service that prevents the unauthorized use of information system resources (hardware and software) only to authorized users and the unauthorized disclosure or modification of data (stored and communicated). [IATF] Enable authorized use of a resource while preventing unauthorized use or use in an unauthorized manner. [800-33] Limiting access to information system resources only to authorized users, programs, processes, or other systems. [CNSSI] Process of limiting access to the resources of an IT product only to authorized users, programs, processes, systems, or other IT products. [FCv1] The process of limiting access to the resources of a system only to authorized programs, processes, or other systems (in a network). [NCSC/TG004] The process of limiting access to the resources of a system only to authorized programs, processes, or other systems (in a network). Synonymous with controlled access and limited access. [SRV] (see also Bell-LaPadula model, Bell-LaPadula security model, Clark Wilson integrity model, Defensive Information Operations, Escrowed Encryption Standard, Identification Protocol, Internet Engineering Task Force, Internet Protocol Security Option, Internet Protocol security, Network File System, PIV issuer, POSIX, RA domains, Remote Authentication Dial-In User Service, SOCKS, TCB subset, TOE security functions interface, U.S.-controlled facility, U.S.-controlled space, accreditation range, active wiretapping, adequate security, administrative security, adversary, application, application program interface, application proxy, archiving, attack, audit, audit trail, authenticate, authentication, authorized, availability, availability service, backdoor, bastion host, benign, between-the-lines-entry, boundary, boundary host, breach, buffer overflow, call back, capability, category, classified, clearance, clearance level, client, client server, common gateway interface, communications, compartment, compartmentalization, compartmented mode, computer intrusion, computer security, computer security intrusion, confidentiality, confinement property, controlled security mode, controlled space, covert channel, covert channel analysis, cracker, credentials, critical, critical system, cryptographic application programming interface, cryptographic equipment room, data compromise, data integrity service, data management, dedicated mode, default account, demilitarized zone, demon dialer, denial of service, dictionary attack, directory service, disclosure of information, domain, domain name system, domain parameter, dominated by, dual control, encapsulation, exploit, exploitation, external security controls, external system exposure, extranet, federated identity, federation, fedline, firewall, flooding, formulary, guard, hacker, host, https, hyperlink, hypertext, identification, identification and authentication, identification authentication, identity credential issuer, identity verification, identity-based security policy, impersonation, inadvertent disclosure, individual accountability, individual electronic accountability, inference, information assurance product, information category, information security, information systems security, integrity, interception, interface, internal security controls, internal system exposure, internet service provider, intranet, intruder, intrusion, intrusion detection, intrusion detection tools, kerberos, key recovery, key-escrow, kiosk, labeled security protections, list-oriented, lock-and-key protection system, lockout, logic bomb, logical completeness measure, maintenance hook, major application, malicious intruder, malicious logic, masquerade, masquerading, minimum essential infrastructure, mode of operation, modes of operation, motivation, multilevel mode, multilevel secure, multilevel security, multilevel security mode, national security information, need to know determination, network component, network security, network weaving, networks, no-lone zone, non-discretionary security, noncomputing security methods, operations manager, operator, packet filtering, partitioned security mode, password system, passwords, peer-to-peer communication, penetration, permissions, personal identification number, personnel security, physical and environmental protection, physical security, piggyback, piggyback attack, piggyback entry, point-to-point tunneling protocol, policy, pop-up box, privacy, probe, protected network, protection ring, protection-critical portions of the TCB, proximity, proxy server, real-time reaction, records, reference monitor, reference monitor concept, reference validation mechanism, remote administration tool, repository, resource encapsulation, restricted area, rootkit, rule-based security policy, rules of behavior, ruleset, salt, sampling frame, scoping guidance, screen scraping, secure single sign-on, security clearance, security compromise, security controls, security domain, security incident, security intrusion, security label, security management, security management infrastructure, security policy, security safeguards, security violation, segregation of duties, sensitive compartmented information, sensitive information, signature, simple network management protocol, simple security condition, simple security property, single sign-on, social engineering, software, source program, spoof, spoofing, star (*) property, storage object, subject security level, subset-domain, system high mode, system resources, system software, system-high security mode, tcpwrapper, technological attack, term rule-based security policy, theft, threat, threat consequence, ticket, ticket-oriented, timing attacks, tokens, transaction, trap door, trespass, trojan horse, trust relationship, trusted gateway, trusted identification forwarding, trusted subject, two-person integrity, uniform resource locator, unprotected network, user PIN, verification, virus, vulnerability, web browser cache, website, wide-area network, wireless gateway server, wiretapping, workstation, world wide web, Automated Information System security, authorization, risk management, security, security-relevant event, trusted computing base, user) (includes IT default file protection parameters, Terminal Access Controller Access Control System, access, access category, access control center, access control list, access control mechanism, access control officer, access control service, access level, access list, access mode, access period, access port, access profile, access type, access with limited privileges, accessibility, administrative access, browse access protection, centralized authorization, classified information, component reference monitor, context-dependent access control, controlled access area, controlled access protection, controlled sharing, cookies, default file protection, discretionary access control, entry control, failure access, fetch protection, file protection, file security, file transfer access management, formal access approval, granularity, identity based access control, logged in, logical access, logical access control, login, logoff, logon, mandatory access control, media access control address, multiple access rights terminal, need-to-know, network reference monitor, non-discretionary access control, on-access scanning, partition rule base access control, peer access approval, peer access enforcement, physical access control, privileged, random access memory, remote access software, role-based access control, sandboxed environment, secure state, security kernel, security perimeter, sensitivity label, special access office, special access program, special access program facility, system entry, technical policy, unauthorized access, write access)

access control center (ACC)

(I) A computer containing a database with entries that define a security policy for an access control service. (C) An ACC is sometimes used in conjunction with a key center to implement access control in a key distribution system for symmetric cryptography. [RFC2828] (see also cryptography, key, access control)

access control list (ACL)

(1) A list of subjects authorized for specific access to an object. (2) A list of entities, together with their access rights, which are authorized to have access to a resource. [TNI] (1) A mechanism implementing discretionary access control in an IT product that identifies the users who may access an object and the type of access to the object that a user is permitted. (2) A list of subjects authorized for specific access to an object. (3) A list of entities, together with their access rights, which are authorized to have access to a resource. [AJP] (I) A mechanism that implements access control for a system resource by enumerating the identities of the computer system entities that are permitted to access the resource. [RFC2828] A list of the subjects that are permitted to access an object and the access rights of each subject. [SRV] A mechanism that implements access control for a system resource by enumerating the identities of the system entities that are permitted to access the resources. [800-82] Mechanism implementing discretionary access control in an IT product that identifies the users who may access an object and the type of access to the object that a user is permitted. [FCv1] Mechanism implementing discretionary and/or mandatory access control between subjects and objects. [CNSSI][IATF] (see also authorized, communications security, access control) (includes ACL-based authorization)

access control mechanism

(1) Security safeguards designed to detect and prevent unauthorized access, and to permit authorized access in an IT product. (2) Hardware or software features, operating procedures, management procedures, and various combinations of these designed to detect and prevent unauthorized access and to permit authorized access in an automated system. [AJP] Hardware or software features, operating procedures, management procedures, and various combinations of these designed to detect and prevent unauthorized access and to permit authorized access in an automated system. [NCSC/TG004][SRV] Security safeguard designed to detect and deny unauthorized access and permit authorized access in an IS. [CNSSI] Security safeguards designed to detect and prevent unauthorized access, and to permit authorized access in an IT product. [FCv1] (see also authorized, software, unauthorized access, access control)

access control officer (ACO)

(see also access control)

access control service

(I) A security service that protects against a system entity using system resource in a way not authorized by the systems security policy; in short, protection of system resources against unauthorized access. (C) This service includes protecting against use of a resource in an unauthorized manner by an entity that is authorized to use the resource in some other manner. The two basic mechanisms for implementing this service are ACLs and tickets. [RFC2828] (see also authorized, unauthorized access, access control)

access level

Hierarchical portion of the security level used to identify the sensitivity of IS data and the clearance or authorization of users. Access level, in conjunction with the nonhierarchical categories, forms the sensitivity label of an object. [CNSSI] The hierarchical portion of the security level used to identify the sensitivity of data and the clearance or authorization of users. Note: The access level, in conjunction with the non-hierarchical categories, forms the sensitivity label of an object. [AJP][NCSC/TG004][SRV] (see also identify, access control, security level)

access list

(IS) Compilation of users, programs, or processes and the access levels and types to which each is authorized. (COMSEC) Roster of individuals authorized admittance to a controlled area. [CNSSI] A list of users, programs, and/or processes and the specifications of access categories to which each is assigned. [NCSC/TG004][SRV] (see access control list) (see also authorized, access control)

access mediation

Process of monitoring and controlling access to the resources of an IT product, including but not limited to the monitoring and updating of policy attributes during accesses as well as the protection of unauthorized or inappropriate accesses. [AJP][FCv1] (see also authorized)

access mode

(I) A distinct type of data processing operation-- e.g. read, write, append, or execute--that a subject can potentially perform on an object in a system. [RFC2828] (see also access control, automated information system)

access period

A segment of time, generally expressed on a daily or weekly basis, during which access rights prevail. [AJP][NCSC/TG004][SRV] (see also access control)

access port

A logical or physical identifier that a computer uses to distinguish different terminal input/output data streams. [AJP][NCSC/TG004][SRV] (see also access control)

access profile

Associates each user with a list of protected objects the user may access. [CNSSI] (see also access control)

access type

Privilege to perform action on an object. Read, write, execute, append, modify, delete, and create are examples of access types. [CNSSI] The nature of an access right to a particular device, program, or file (e.g. read, write, execute, append, modify, delete, or create). [AJP][NCSC/TG004][SRV] (see also access control)

access with limited privileges

A user who can circumvent the security controls and processes of a domain or application within an IT system [NASA] (see also access control)

accessibility

The ability to obtain the use of a computer system resource, or the ability and means necessary to store data, retrieve data, or communicate with a system. [SRV] (see also access control)

account aggregation

A service that gathers information from many websites, presents that information to the customer in a consolidated format and, in some cases, may allow the customer to initiate activity on the aggregated accounts. Aggregation services typically involve three different entities: (1) The aggregator that offers the aggregation service and maintains information on the customer's relationships/accounts with other on-line providers. (2) The aggregation target or website/entity from which the information is gathered or extracted by means of direct data feeds or screen scraping. (3) The aggregation customer who subscribes to aggregation services and provides customer IDs and passwords for the account relationships to be aggregated. [FFIEC]

account authority digital signature (AADS)

relying party obtains public key from its own account registery record for digital signature authentication [misc] (see also authentication, public-key infrastructure)

account fraud

(see also identity theft)

account hijacking

assumption of a customer's identity on a valid existing account [FTC] (see account fraud)

account management

Activities such as balance inquiry, statement balancing, transfers between the customer's accounts at the same financial institution, maintenance of personal information, etc. [FFIEC]

account takeover

(see account fraud)

accountability

(1) Means of linking individuals to their interactions with an IT product, thereby supporting identification of and recovery from unexpected or unavoidable failures of the control objectives. (2) The quality or state that enables actions on an ADP system to be traced to individuals who may then be held responsible. These actions include violations and attempted violation of the security policy, as well as allowed actions. (3) The property that enables activities on a system to be traced to individuals who may then be held responsible for their actions. [AJP] (I) The property of a system (including all of its system resources) that ensures that the actions of a system entity may be traced uniquely to that entity, which can be held responsible for its actions. (C) Accountability permits detection and subsequent investigation of security breaches. [RFC2828] (IS) Process of tracing IS activities to a responsible source. (COMSEC) Principle that an individual is entrusted to safeguard and control equipment, keying material, and information and is answerable to proper authority for the loss or misuse of that equipment or information. [CNSSI] 1) Principle that responsibilities for ownership and/or oversight of IS resources are explicitly assigned and that assignees are answerable to proper authorities for stewardship of resources under their control. 2) The explicit assignment of responsibilities for oversight of areas of control to executives, managers, staff, owners, providers, and users of MEI Resource Elements. [CIAO] Means of linking individuals to their interactions with an IT product, thereby supporting identification of and recovery from unexpected or unavoidable failures of the control objectives. [FCv1] Property that allows auditing of activities in an automated information system (AIS) to be traced to persons who may then be held responsible for their actions. [IATF] Property that allows the ability to identify, verify, and trace system entities as well as changes in their status. Accountability is considered to include authenticity and non-repudiation. [800-37] The principle that individuals using a facility or a computer system must be able to be identified. With accountability, violations or attempted violation of system security can be traced to individuals who can then be held responsible for their actions. [AFSEC] The property that enables activities on a system to be traced to individuals who may then be held responsible for their actions. [NCSC/TG004][SRV] The property that ensures that the actions of an entity may be traced uniquely to the entity. [SC27] The quality or state which enables actions on an ADP system to be traced to individuals who may then be held responsible. These actions include violations and attempted violation of the security policy, as well as allowed actions. [TNI] The security objective that generates the requirement for actions of an entity to be traced uniquely to that entity. This supports non-repudiation, deterrence, fault isolation, intrusion detection and prevention, and after-action recovery and legal action. [800-30][800-33] (see also audit, communications security, deterrence, failure, fault isolation, identify, intrusion, intrusion detection, intrusion prevention, minimum essential infrastructure, nonrepudiation, quality, recovery, trust, security goals) (includes automated information system, identification, object, user)

accounting legend code (ALC)

Numeric code used to indicate the minimum accounting controls required for items of accountable COMSEC material within the COMSEC Material Control System. [CNSSI] (see also communications security, control system)

accounting number

Number assigned to an item of COMSEC material to facilitate its control. [CNSSI] (see also communications security)

accredit

(see accreditation)

accreditation

The official management decision given by a senior agency official to authorize operation of an information system and to explicitly accept the risk to agency operations (including mission, functions, image, or reputation), agency assets, or individuals, based on the implementation of an agreed-upon set of security controls. [800-60] (1) The procedure for accepting an IT system to process sensitive information within a particular operational environment. (2) The formal procedure for recognizing both the technical competence and the impartiality of an IT test laboratory (evaluation body) to carry out its associated tasks. (3) Formal declaration by a designated approving authority that an Automated Information System (AIS) is approved to operate in a particular security configuration using a prescribed set of safeguards. (4) The managerial authorization and approval granted to an ADP system or network to process sensitive data in an operational environment, made on the basis of a certification by designated technical personnel of the extent to which design and implementation of the computer system meet pre-specified technical requirements, e.g. TCSEC (Trusted Computer System Evaluation Criteria), for achieving adequate data security. Management can accredit a system to operate at a higher or lower level than the risk level recommended (e.g. by the requirements guideline) for the certification level of the computer system. If management accredits the system to operate at a higher level than is appropriate for the certification level, management is accepting the additional risk incurred. (5) A formal declaration by the DAA (designated approving authority) that the AIS is approved to operate in a particular security mode using a prescribed set of safeguards. Accreditation is the official management authorization for operation of an AIS and is based on the certification process as well as other management considerations. The accreditation statement affixes security responsibility with the DAA and shows that due care has been taken for security. [AJP] (I) An administrative declaration by a designated authority that an information system is approved to operate in a particular security configuration with a prescribed set of safeguards. (C) An accreditation is usually based on a technical certification of the computer system's security mechanisms. The terms 'certification' and 'accreditation' are used more in the U.S. Department of Defense and other government agencies than in commercial organizations. However, the concepts apply any place where managers are required to deal with and accept responsibility for security risks. The American Bar Association is developing accreditation criteria for CAs. [RFC2828] A formal declaration by the DAA that the AIS is approved to operate in a particular security mode using a perscribed set of safeguards. Accreditation is the official management authorization for operation of an AIS and is based on the certification process as well as other management considerations. The accreditation statement affixes security responsibility with the DAA and shows that due care has been taken for security. [NCSC/TG004] A management's formal acceptance of the adequacy of a computer system's security. [SRV] Formal declaration by a Designated Accrediting Authority (DAA) that an IS is approved to operate at an acceptable level of risk, based on the implementation of an approved set of technical, managerial, and procedural safeguards. [CNSSI] Formal declaration by a Designated Approving Authority that an IS is approved to operate in a particular security mode using a prescribed set of safeguards at an acceptable level of risk. [GSA] Formal declaration by a designated approving authority that an Automated Information System (AIS) is approved to operate in a particular security configuration using a prescribed set of safeguards. [FCv1] Formal declaration by the responsible management approving the operation of an automated system in a particular security mode using a particular set of safeguards. Accreditation is the official authorization by management for the operation of the computer system, and acceptance by that management of the associated residual risks. Accreditation is based on the certification process as well as other management considerations. [SC27] Has two definitions according to circumstances: a)the procedure for accepting an IT system for use within a particular environment; b)the procedure for recognizing both the technical competence and the impartiality of a test laboratory to carry out its associated tasks. [ITSEC] The authorization of an IT system to process, store, or transmit information, granted by a management official. Accreditation, that is required under OMB Circular A-130, is based on an assessment of the management, operational, and technical controls associated with an IT system. [800-37] The managerial authorization and approval, granted to an ADP system or network to process sensitive data in an operational environment, made on the basis of a certification by designated technical personnel of the extent to which design and implementation of the computer system meet pre-specified technical requirements, e.g. TCSEC, for achieving adequate data security. Management can accredit a system to operate at a higher/lower level than the risk level recommended (e.g. by the Requirements Guideline-) for the certification level of the computer system. If management accredits the system to operate at a higher level than is appropriate for the certification level, management is accepting the additional risk incurred. [TNI] The official management decision given by a senior agency official to authorize operation of an information system and to explicitly accept the risk to agency operations (including mission, functions, image, or reputation), agency assets, or individuals, based on the implementation of an agreed-upon set of security controls. [800-82] Two definitions according to circumstances: 1) Operational system accreditation: The authorization that is granted for use of an IT system to process sensitive information in its operational environment. (ANSI modified) 2) Laboratory accreditation: The formal recognition that a testing laboratory is technically competent to carry out its specified tasks. [JTC1/SC27] (see also Common Criteria Testing Laboratory, National Information Assurance Partnership, accredited, approved technologies list, approved test methods list, assessment, authorization, cascading, certificate, certificate revocation list, certification phase, certifier, controlled security mode, dedicated security mode, evaluation, external security controls, multilevel security mode, networks, partitioned security mode, pre-certification phase, risk, security evaluation, security testing, site certification, system-high security mode, test, trust, trusted computer system, certification) (includes DoD Information Technology Security Certification and Accreditation Process, National Voluntary Laboratory Accreditation Program, Scope of Accreditation, accreditation authority, accreditation body, accreditation boundary, accreditation disapproval, accreditation multiplicity parameter, accreditation package, accreditation phase, accreditation range, approval/accreditation, automated information system, certification and accreditation, designated approving authority, full accreditation, interim accreditation, interim accreditation action plan, post-accreditation phase, private accreditation exponent, private accreditation information, public accreditation verification exponent, security, site accreditation, system accreditation, type accreditation)

accreditation authority

Entity trusted by all members of a group of entities for the purposes of the generation of private accreditation information. [SC27] (see also trust, accreditation)

accreditation body

An independent organization responsible for assessing the performance of other organizations against a recognized standard, and for formally confirming the status of those that meet the standard. [NIAP] (see also National Information Assurance Partnership, accreditation)

accreditation boundary

All components of an information system to be accredited by an authorizing official and excludes separately accredited systems, to which the information system is connected. [800-60] 1. (IA) - Identifies the information resources covered by an accreditation decision, as distinguished from separately accredited information resources that are interconnected or with which information is exchanged via messaging. (Synonymous with Security Perimeter) 2. (IC) - For the purposes of identifying the Protection Level for confidentiality of a system to be accredited, the system has a conceptual boundary that extends to all intended users of the system, both directly and indirectly connected, who receive output from the system (DCID 6/3, 5 Jun 99) [CNSSI] (see also security perimeter, security, accreditation)

accreditation disapproval

The system does not meet the security requirements and security controls as stated in the security plan; residual risk is too great, and mission criticality does not mandate the immediate operational need. Therefore, the developmental system is not approved for operation or, if the system is already operational, the operation of the system is halted. [800-37] (see also risk, security, accreditation)

accreditation multiplicity parameter

Positive integer equal to the number of items of secret accreditation information provided to an entity by the accreditation authority. [SC27] (see also accreditation)

accreditation package

Product comprised of a System Security Plan (SSP) and a report documenting the basis for the accreditation decision. [CNSSI] The accreditation letter and supporting documentation and rationale for the accreditation decision. [800-37] (see also accreditation)

accreditation phase

The accreditation phase is the third phase of the certification and accreditation process. Its purpose is to complete the final risk assessment on the IT system, update the security plan, prepare the certification findings, and issue the accreditation decision. [800-37] (see also assessment, risk, security, accreditation)

accreditation range

The accreditation range of a host with respect to a particular network is a set of mandatory access control levels (according to 'Computer Security Requirements: Guidance for Applying the Department of Defense Trusted Computer System Evaluation Criteria in Specific Environments,' CSC-STD-003-85) for data storage, processing, and transmission. The accreditation range will generally reflect the sensitivity levels of data that the accreditation authority believes the host can reliably keep segregated with an acceptable level of risk in the context of the particular network for which the accreditation range is given. Thus, although a host system might be accredited to use the mandatory access control levels Confidential, Secret, and Top Secret in stand-alone operation, it might have an accreditation range consisting of the single value Top Secret for attachment to some network. [AJP] (see also access control, computer security, evaluation, networks, risk, security, trust, trusted computer system, accreditation)

accredited

Formally confirmed by an accreditation body as meeting a predetermined standard of impartiality and general technical, methodological, and procedural competence. [NIAP] (see also accreditation, evaluation)

accrediting authority

Synonymous with Designated Accrediting Authority (DAA). [CNSSI]

accuracy

A qualitative assessment of correctness, or freedom from error. [SRV] (see also assessment)

ACH debit fraud

unauthorized payment, using fraudulently obtained account number [FTC] (see also authorized, fraud, identity theft)

ACL-based authorization

A scheme where the authorization agent consults an ACL to grant or deny access to a principal. [misc] (see also access control list, authorization) (includes distributed computing environment)

acquirer

(N) SET usage: 'The financial institution that establishes an account with a merchant and processes payment card authorizations and payments.' (O) 'The institution (or its agent) that acquires from the card acceptor the financial data relating to the transaction and initiates that data into an interchange system.' [RFC2828] (see also authorization, Secure Electronic Transaction)

acquisition plan

A document that records management's decisions; contains the requirements; provides appropriate analysis of technical options and the life cycle plans for development, production, training, and support of material items. [SRV] (see also analysis)

acquisition strategy

The conceptual framework for conducting systems acquisition, encompassing the broad concepts and objectives that direct and control the overall development, production, and deployment of a system. It evolves in parallel with the system's maturation. It must be stable enough to provide continuity but dynamic and flexible enough to accommodate change. It is tailored to fit the needs for developing, producing, and fielding the system. The set of decisions that determines how products and services will be acquired, including contracting method, contract duration, contract pricing, and quantities. [SRV]

active attack

An attack on the authentication protocol where the Attacker transmits data to the Claimant or Verifier. Examples of active attacks include a man-in-the-middle, impersonation, and session hijacking. [800-63] (see also authentication, impersonation, attack)

active content

WWW pages which contain references to programs which are downloaded and executed automatically by WWW browsers. [SRV]

active security testing

Hands-on security testing of systems and networks to identify their security vulnerabilities. [800-115] (see also security testing)

active wiretapping

The attaching of an unauthorized device, such as a computer terminal, to a communications circuit for the purpose of obtaining access to data through the generation of false messages or control signals, or by altering the communications of legitimate users. [SRV] (see also access control, authorized, communications, wiretapping)

activity analysis

The analysis and measurement (in terms of time, cost, and throughput) of distinct units of work (activities) that make up a process. [SRV] (see also analysis, security software)

activity-based costing (ABC)

(see also business process)

actuator

A pneumatic, hydraulic, or electrically powered device that supplies force and motion so as to position a valve's closure member at or between the open or closed position. [800-82]

ad hoc

Something that is ad hoc or that is done on an ad hoc basis happens or is done only when the situation makes it necessary or desirable, rather than being arranged in advance or being part of a general plan. [OVT]

ad hoc testing

Testing carried out using no recognised test case design technique. [OVT] (see also security testing, test)

ad-lib test

A test executed without prior planning; especially if the expected test outcome is not predicted beforehand. An undocumented test. [OVT] (see also test)

adaptive predictive coding (APC)

add-on security

(I) 'The retrofitting of protection mechanisms, implemented by hardware or software, after the [automatic data processing] system has become operational.' [RFC2828] Incorporation of new hardware, software, or firmware safeguards in an operational IS. [CNSSI] The retrofitting of protection mechanisms, implemented by hardware or software, after the computer system has become operational. [SRV] The retrofitting of protection mechanisms, implemented by hardware or software. [AJP][NCSC/TG004] (see also software, security)

address

A sequence of bits or characters that identifies the destination and the source of a transmission. [SRV]

address indicator group (AIG)

address of record

The official location where an individual can be found. The address of record always includes the residential street address of an individual and may also include the mailing address of the individual. In very limited circumstances, an Army Post Office box number, Fleet Post Office box number or the street address of next of kin or of another contact individual can be used when a residential street address for the individual is not available. [800-63]

address spoofing

A type of attack in which the attacker steals a legitimate network (e.g. IP) address of a system and uses it to impersonate the system that owns the address. [misc] (see also impersonation, networks, masquerade, spoofing) (includes ip spoofing)

adequate security

Security commensurate with the risk and magnitude of harm resulting from the loss, misuse, or unauthorized access to or modification of information. [800-37] Security commensurate with the risk and magnitude of harm resulting from the loss, misuse, or unauthorized access to or modification of information. This includes assuring that information systems operate effectively and provide appropriate confidentiality, integrity, and availability, through the use of cost-effective management, personnel, operational, and technical controls. (OMB Circular A-130) [CNSSI] (see also access control, authorized, risk, unauthorized access, security)

administration documentation

The information about a Target of Evaluation supplied by the developer for use by an administrator. [AJP][ITSEC] (see also target of evaluation)

administrative access

Individuals or terminals authorized to perform network administrator or system administrator functions. [FFIEC] (see also authorized, access control)

administrative security

(I) Management procedures and constraints to prevent unauthorized access to a system. (O) 'The management constraints, operational procedures, accountability procedures, and supplemental controls established to provide an acceptable level of protection for sensitive data.' (C) Examples include clear delineation and separation of duties, and configuration control. [RFC2828] The management constraints and supplemental controls established to provide an acceptable level of protection for data. [AJP][NCSC/TG004][NSAINT] The management constraints and supplemental controls established to provide an acceptable level of protection for data. Synonymous with procedural security. [SRV] (see procedural security) (see also access control, authorized, unauthorized access, security)

administrator

A person in contact with the Target of Evaluation who is responsible for maintaining its operational capability. [AJP][ITSEC] (see also target of evaluation)

advanced development model (ADM)

(see also software development)

advanced encryption standard

(N) A future FIPS publication being developed by NIST to succeed DES. Intended to specify an unclassified, publicly-disclosed, symmetric encryption algorithm, available royalty-free worldwide. [RFC2828] FIPS approved cryptographic algorithm that is a symmetric block cypher using cryptographic key sizes of 128, 192, and 256 bits to encrypt and decrypt data in blocks of 128 bits. [CNSSI] (see also classified, encryption, National Institute of Standards and Technology, symmetric cryptography)

advanced intelligence network (AIN)

(see also networks)

advanced intelligent network (AIN)

An evolving architecture that allows rapid creation and modification of telecommunication services. [SRV] (see also networks)

Advanced Mobile Phone Service (AMPS)

The standard system for analog cellular telephone service in the U.S. AMPS allocates frequency ranges within the 800 -- 900 MHz spectrum to cellular telephones. Signals cover an area called a cell. Signals are passed into adjacent cells as the user moves to another cell. The analog service of AMPS has been updated to include digital service. [IATF] (see also user)

advanced narrowband digital voice terminal (ANDVT)

Advanced Research Projects Agency Network (ARPANET)

(see also networks)

advanced self-protection jammer (ASPJ)

(see also assurance, communications security)

adversary

(I) An entity that attacks, or is a threat to, a system. [RFC2828] Person or organization that must be denied accesses to information. [IATF] (see also access control, threat, security)

advisory

Notification of significant new trends or developments regarding the threat to the IS of an organization. This notification may include analytical insights into trends, intentions, technologies, or tactics of an adversary targeting ISs. [CNSSI] (see also threat)

agency

Federal department, major organizational unit within a department, or independent agency. [CIAO]

agent

A host-based intrusion detection and prevention program that monitors and analyzes activity and may also perform prevention actions. [800-94] A program used in distributed denial of service (DDoS) attacks that sends malicious traffic to hosts based on the instructions of a handler. [800-61] (see also attack, intrusion, intrusion detection)

aggregation

(I) A circumstance in which a collection of information items is required to be classified at a higher security level than any of the individual items that comprise it. [RFC2828] (see also security)

aggressive mode

Mode used in IPsec phase 1 to negotiate the establishment of an IKE SA through three messages. [800-77] (see also Internet Protocol security)

alarm

A device or function that signals the existence of an abnormal condition by making an audible or visible discrete change, or both, so as to attract attention to that condition. [800-82] (see also countermeasure)

alarm reporting

An OSI terms that refers to the communication of information about a possible detected fault. This information generally includes the identification of the network device or network resource in which the fault was detected, the type of the fault, its severity, and its probable cause. [SRV] (see also fault, identification, networks, security software)

alarm surveillance

The set of functions that enable: (1) the monitoring of the communications network to detect faults and fault-related events or conditions; (2) the logging of this information for future use in fault detection and other network management activities; and (3) the analysis and control of alarms, notifications, and other information about faults to ensure that the resources of network management are directed toward faults that affect the operation of the communications network. Analysis of alarms consists of alarm filtering, alarm correlation, and fault prediction. [SRV] (see also analysis, fault, networks, security software)

alert

A formatted message describing a circumstance relevant to network security. Alerts are often derived from critical audit events. [NSAINT] A notification of an important observed event. Anomaly-Based Detection: The process of comparing definitions of what activity is considered normal against observed events to identify significant deviations. [800-94] Notice of specific attack directed at an organization's IS resources. [CIAO] Notification that a specific attack has been directed at the IS of an organization. [CNSSI] (see also attack, audit, communications security, identify, networks, security)

algorithm

(I) A finite set of step-by-step instructions for a problem-solving or computation procedure, especially one that can be implemented by a computer. [RFC2828] A mathematical procedure that can usually be explicitly encoded in a set of computer language instructions that manipulate data. Cryptographic algorithms are mathematical procedures used for such purposes as encrypting and decrypting messages and signing documents digitally. [AJP] (see also Data Encryption Standard, cryptanalysis, cryptographic key, cryptographic module, cryptography, cyclic redundancy check, initialization vector, key-escrow system, metric) (includes International Data Encryption Algorithm, Rivest-Shamir-Adelman algorithm, asymmetric algorithm, crypto-algorithm, digital signature algorithm, message digest algorithm 5, secure hash algorithm, symmetric algorithm)

alias

(I) A name that an entity uses in place of its real name, usually for the purpose of either anonymity or deception. [RFC2828] (see also anonymous, masquerade)

alignment

The degree of agreement, conformance, and consistency among organizational purpose, mission, vision, and values; structures, systems, and processes; and individual values, skills, and behaviors. [SRV]

allowed traffic

Packets forwarded as a result of the rule set of the device under test/system under test (DUT/SUT). Firewalls typically are configured to forward only those packets explicitly permitted in the rule set. Forwarded packets must be included in calculating the bit forwarding rate or maximum bit forwarding rate of the DUT/SUT. All other packets must not be included in bit forwarding rate calculations. [RFC2647] (see also bit forwarding rate, ruleset, test)

alternate COMSEC custodian

Individual designated by proper authority to perform the duties of the COMSEC custodian during the temporary absence of the COMSEC custodian. [CNSSI] (see also communications security)

alternative work site

Government-wide, national program allowing Federal employees to work at home or at geographically convenient satellite offices for part of the work week (e.g., telecommuting). [CNSSI]

American institute of certified public accountants (AICPA)

American National Standards Institute (ANSI)

(N) A private, not-for-profit association of users, manufacturers, and other organizations, that administers U.S. private sector voluntary standards. (C) ANSI is the sole U.S. representative to the two major non-treaty international standards organizations, ISO and, via the U.S. National Committee (USNC), the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC). [RFC2828] organization responsible for approving standards, including computers and communications. [misc] (see also automated information system)

American Standard Code for Information Interchange (ASCII)

(see also automated information system)

analog signal

A continuous electrical signal whose amplitude varies in direct correlation with the original input. [SRV]

analysis

analysis of alternatives

The process of determining how an organization's information needs will be met. It is an analysis to compare and evaluate the costs and benefits of various alternatives for meeting a requirement for the purpose of selecting the alternative that is most advantageous to the organization. [SRV] (see also analysis)

ankle-biter

A person who aspires to be a hacker/cracker but has very limited knowledge or skills related to AIS's. Usually associated with young teens who collect and use simple malicious programs obtained from the Internet. [NSAINT] (see also threat)

anomaly

An anomaly is a rule or practice that is different from what is normal or usual, and that is therefore unsatisfactory. Anything observed in the documentation or operation of software that deviates from expectations based on previously verified software products or reference documents. [OVT] Any condition that departs from the expected. This expectation can come from documentation (e.g. requirements specifications, design documents, user documents) or from perceptions or experiences. An anomaly is not necessarily a problem in the software, but a deviation from the expected, so that errors, defects, faults, and failures are considered anomalies. [SRV] (see also bug, failure, fault, software)

anomaly detection

Detecting intrusions by looking for activity that is different from the user's or system's normal behavior. [CIAO] (see also countermeasure, intrusion, security software)

anomaly detection model

A model where intrusions are detected by looking for activity that is different from the user's or system's normal behavior. [NSAINT] (see also intrusion, model, security policy model)

anonymity

A security service that prevents the disclosure of information that leads to the identification of the end users. [IATF] (see also identification, user)

anonymous

(I) The condition of having a name that is unknown or concealed. (C) An application may require security services that maintain anonymity of users or other system entities, perhaps to preserve their privacy or hide them from attack. To hide an entity's real name, an alias may be used. For example, a financial institution may assign an account number. Parties to a transaction can thus remain relatively anonymous, but can also accept the transaction as legitimate. Real names of the parties cannot be easily determined by observers of the transaction, but an authorized third party may be able to map an alias to a real name, such as by presenting the institution with a court order. In other applications, anonymous entities may be completely untraceable. [RFC2828] (see also alias, attack, authorized, privacy, security)

anonymous and guest login

Services may be made available without any kind of authentication. This is commonly done, for instance, with the FTP protocol to allow anonymous access. Other systems provide a special account named 'guest' to provide access, typically restricting the privileges of this account. [RFC2504] (see also authentication, login)

anonymous login

(I) An access control feature (or, rather, an access control weakness) in many Internet hosts that enables users to gain access to general-purpose or public services and resources on a host (such as allowing any user to transfer data using File Transfer Protocol) without having a pre-established, user-specific account (i.e., user name and secret password). (C) This feature exposes a system to more threats than when all the users are known, pre-registered entities that are individually accountable for their actions. A user logs in using a special, publicly known user name (e.g. 'anonymous', 'guest', or 'ftp'). To use the public login name, the user is not required to know a secret password and may not be required to input anything at all except the name. In other cases, to complete the normal sequence of steps in a login protocol, the system may require the user to input a matching, publicly known password (such as 'anonymous') or may ask the user for an e-mail address or some other arbitrary alphanumeric string. [RFC2828] (see also passwords, threat, internet, login)

anti-jam

Measures ensuring that transmitted information can be received despite deliberate jamming attempts. [CNSSI][IATF] (see also communications security)

anti-jamming (AJ)

(see also communications security)

anti-spoof

Measures taken to prevent the unauthorized use of legitimate Identification & Authentication (I&A) data, however it was obtained, to mimic a subject different from the attacker. [CNSSI] (see also spoofing, security software)

antivirus software

A program that monitors a computer or network to identify all major types of malware and prevent or contain malware incidents. [800-83] A program that monitors a computer or network to identify all major types of malware and prevent or contain malware incidents. Application-Based Intrusion Detection and Prevention System: A host-based intrusion detection and prevention system that performs monitoring for a specific application service only, such as a Web server program or a database server program. [800-94] Computer programs that offer protection from viruses by making additional checks of the integrity of the operating system and electronic files. Also known as virus protection software [FFIEC] (see also countermeasure, identify, integrity, intrusion, intrusion detection, security software, virus)

antivirus tools

Software products and technology used to detect malicious code, prevent it from infecting a system, and remove malicious code that has infected the system. [800-82] (see also countermeasure, virus)

appendix

A string of bits formed by the signature and an optional text field. [SC27]

applet

A small program that typically is transmitted with a Web page. [FFIEC] Small applications written in various programming languages which are automatically downloaded and executed by applet-enabled WWW browsers. [SRV] (see also world wide web)

applicant

A person who has applied to become a key holder, prior to the time at which keys and certificates are issued to and accepted by them. [800-103] An entity (organisation, individual etc.) which requests the assignment of a register entry and entry label. [SC27]

applicant assertion

A party undergoing the processes of registration and identity proofing. A statement from a Verifier to a Relying Party that contains identity information about a Subscriber. Assertions may also contain verified attributes. [800-63] (see also identity)

application

1) All application systems, internal and external, utilized in support of the core process. 2) A software package designed to perform a specific set of functions, such as word processing or communications. [CIAO] A computer program designed to perform specific functions, such as inventory control, scheduling, and payroll. [SRV] A program that performs a function directly for a user, such as ftp and telnet. [misc] Software program that performs a specific function directly for a user and can be executed without access to system control, monitoring, or administrative privileges. [CNSSI] (see also access control, software)

application controls

Controls related to individual application systems, which help ensure that transactions are valid, complete, authorized, processed, and reported. [SRV] Controls related to transactions and data within application systems. Application controls ensure the completeness and accuracy of the records and the validity of the entries made resulting from both programmed processing and manual data entry. Examples of application controls include data input validation, agreement of batch totals and encryption of data transmitted [FFIEC] (see also authorized, security controls)

application data backup/recovery

Data backup is the process of saving software and information on magnetic media and storing the media in a location away from the IT facility. This process provides the means to ensure application recovery; that is, the means to restore the application and/or information after damage to or destruction of the IT hardware, software, or information. [NASA] (see also availability, backup)

application entity (AE)

application gateway firewall

A type of firewall system that runs an application, called a proxy, that acts like the server to the Internet client. The proxy takes all requests from the Internet client and, if allowed, forwards them to the Intranet server. Application gateways are used to make certain that the Internet client and the Intranet server are using the proper application protocol for communicating. Popular proxies include Telnet, ftp, and http. Building proxies requires knowledge of the application protocol. [misc] (see also firewall)

application generator

A type of tool that uses software designs and/or requirements to generate entire software applications automatically, including program source code and program control statements. [SRV] (see also software)

application level gateway

A firewall system in which service is provided by processes that maintain complete TCP connection state and sequencing. Application level firewalls often re-address traffic so that outgoing traffic appears to have originated from the firewall, rather than the internal host. [NSAINT] (see also application proxy, firewall)

application program interface (API)

A set of standard software interrupts, calls, and data formats that application programs use to initiate contact with network services, mainframe communications programs, telephone equipment, or program-to-program communications. [IATF] System access point or library function that has a well-defined syntax and is accessible from application programs or user code to provide well-defined functionality. [AJP][FCv1] (see also access control, networks, security, software)

application programming interface (API)

The interface between the application software and the application platform (i.e., operating system), across which all services are provided. [GAO06178] The interface between the application software and the application platform, across which all services are provided. The API is primarily in support of application portability, but system and application interoperability is also supported by a communication API. [SRV] (see also software)

application proxy

A proxy service that is set up and torn down in response to a client request, rather than existing on a static basis. Circuit proxies always forward packets containing a given port number if that port number is permitted by the rule set. Application proxies, in contrast, forward packets only once a connection has been established using some known protocol. When the connection closes, a firewall using application proxies rejects individual packets, even if they contain port numbers allowed by a rule set. [RFC2647] An application that forwards application traffic through a firewall. It is also called a proxy server. Proxies tend to be specific to the protocol they are designed to forward, and may provide increased access control or audit. [SRV] (see also application level gateway, access control, audit, firewall, proxy) (includes gateway)

application server attack

A computer responsible for hosting applications to user workstations. An attempt to gain unauthorized access to system services, resources, or information, or an attempt to compromise system integrity, availability, or confidentiality. [800-82] (see also authorized, availability, compromise, integrity, user, attack)

application software

Programs that perform specific tasks, such as word processing, database management, or payroll. Software that interacts directly with some nonsoftware system (e.g. human, robot, etc.). [SRV] (see also software)

application system

An integrated set of computer programs designed to serve a well-defined function and having specific input, processing, and output activities (e.g., general ledger, manufacturing resource planning, human resource management). [FFIEC] (see also automated information system)

application-level firewall

A firewall system in which service is provided by processes that maintain complete TCP connection state and sequencing; application level firewalls often re-address traffic so that outgoing traffic appears to have originated from the firewall, rather than the internal host. In contrast to packet filtering firewalls, this firewall must have knowledge of the application data transfer protocol and often has rules about what may be transmitted and what may not. [IATF] (see also firewall, security)

approach

The method used or steps taken in setting about a task, problem, etc. [SC27]

approval for service use (ASU)

approval/accreditation

The official authorization that is granted to an ADP system to process sensitive information in its operational environment, based upon comprehensive security evaluation of the computer system's hardware, firmware, and software security design, configuration, and implementation, and of the other system procedural, administrative, physical, TEMPEST, personnel, and communications security controls. [AJP][TCSEC] (see also TEMPEST, authorization, communications security, evaluation, security, software, accreditation)

approved

FIPS approved or NIST recommended. An algorithm or technique that is either 1) specified in a FIPS or NIST Recommendation, or 2) adopted in a FIPS or NIST Recommendation. [800-63]

approved technologies list

The list of approved information technology areas maintained by the NIAP Oversight Body which can be selected by a CCTL in choosing its scope of accreditation, that is, the types of IT security evaluations that can be conducted using NVLAP accredited test methods. [NIAP] (see also accreditation, computer security, evaluation, test, Common Criteria Testing Laboratory, National Information Assurance Partnership)

approved test methods list

The list of approved test methods maintained by the NIAP Oversight Body which can be selected by a CCTL in choosing its scope of accreditation, that is, the types of IT security evaluations that it will be authorized to conduct using NVLAP accredited test methods. [NIAP] (see also accreditation, authorized, computer security, evaluation, Common Criteria Testing Laboratory, National Information Assurance Partnership, test)

architectural design

A phase of the development process wherein the top-level definition and design of a Target of Evaluation are specified. [AJP][ITSEC] (see also software development, target of evaluation)

architecture

A description of all functional activities to be performed to achieve the desired mission, the system elements needed to perform the functions, and the designation of performance levels of those system elements. An architecture also includes information on the technologies, interfaces, and location of functions and is considered an evolving description of an approach to achieving a desired mission. [SRV] A highly structured specification of an acceptable approach within a framework for solving a specific problem. An architecture contains descriptions of all the components of a selected, acceptable solution while allowing certain details of specific components to be variable to satisfy related constraints (e.g., costs, local environment, user acceptability). [GSA] (see also user)

archive

(I) (1.) Noun: A collection of data that is stored for a relatively long period of time for historical and other purposes, such as to support audit service, availability service, or system integrity service. (2.) Verb: To store data in such way. (C) A digital signature may need to be verified many years after the signing occurs. The CA--the one that issued the certificate containing the public key needed to verify that signature--may not stay in operation that long. So every CA needs to provide for long-term storage of the information needed to verify the signatures of those to whom it issues certificates. [RFC2828] Long-term storage of system information and records. Items commonly archived include but are not limited to magnetic media copies of operating system software, application software, and data; and hardcopies of system records such as console logs, data listings, and software and firmware listings. [NASA] Long-term, physically separate storage [GSA] (see also archiving, audit, backup, certificate, digital signature, integrity, key, public-key infrastructure, recovery)

archiving

Moving electronic files no longer being used to less accessible and usually less expensive storage media for safe keeping. [SRV] (see also archive, access control, backup)

area interswitch rekeying key (AIRK)

(see also key, rekey)

areas of control

Collectively, controls consist of the policies, procedures, practices and organizational structures designed to provide reasonable assurance that business objectives will be achieved and that undesired events will be prevented or detected and corrected. [CIAO]

areas of potential compromise

These broad topical areas represent categories where losses can occur that will impact both a department or agency's MEI and its ability to conduct core missions. [CIAO] (see also minimum essential infrastructure, compromise, vulnerability)

ARPANET

(N) Advanced Research Projects Agency Network, a pioneer packet-switched network that was built in the early 1970s under contract to the U.S. Government, led to the development of today's Internet, and was decommissioned in June 1990. [RFC2828] (see also internet, networks)

as is process model

A model that portrays how a business process is currently structured. In process improvement efforts, it is used to establish a baseline for measuring subsequent business improvement actions and progress. [SRV] (see also baseline, business process, model)

assessment

Surveys and Inspections; an analysis of the vulnerabilities of an AIS. Information acquisition and review process designed to assist a customer to determine how best to use resources to protect information in systems. [NSAINT] Verification of a deliverable against a standard using the corresponding method to establish compliance and determine the assurance. [SC27] (see also Common Criteria for Information Technology Security, Common Criteria for Information Technology Security Evaluation, acceptable level of risk, accreditation, accreditation phase, accuracy, analysis, authorize processing, binding of functionality, certification, certification package, certification phase, cost-risk analysis, deliverable, ease of use, evaluation, evaluation pass statement, evaluator, metric, monitoring and evaluation, operations security, pre-certification phase, process assurance, rating, risk analysis, risk management, scheme, security, security category, security fault analysis, site certification, strength of mechanisms, suitability of functionality, threat monitoring, verification) (includes computer incident assessment capability, criticality assessment, independent assessment, national computer security assessment program, privacy impact assessment, qualitative risk assessment, risk assessment, threat assessment, vulnerability assessment, web risk assessment)

asset

Anything that has value to the organization, its business operations and their continuity. [SC27] Anything that has value to the organization. [SC27] Anything that has value to the organization. [ISO/IEC PDTR 13335-1 (11/2001)] Anything that has value to the organization, its business operations and their continuity. [SC27] Information or resources to be protected by the countermeasures of a TOE. [CC2][CC21][SC27] Information resources that support an organization's mission. [SRV] (see also countermeasure, target of evaluation)

assignment

A data item that is a function of the witness and possibly of a part of the message, and forms part of the input to the signature function. [SC27] A data item that is a function of the witness and possibly of a part of the message, and forms part of the input to the signature function. [ISO/IEC 14888-1: 1998, ISO/IEC 9796-3: 2000] The specification of an identified parameter in a component. [SC27] Requirement in a protection profile taken directly as stated, without change, from the list of components or derived by placing a bound on a threshold definition. Note: The assignment of environment-specific requirements to generic component requirements is performed when a component requirement corresponds to an environment-specific requirement. [AJP][FCv1] The specification of an identified parameter in a component. [CC2][CC21][SC27] (see also protection profile)

association

(I) A cooperative relationship between system entities, usually for the purpose of transferring information between them. [RFC2828] (see also risk)

assurance

(1) The degree of confidence that a TOE adequately fulfills the security requirements. (2) A measure of confidence that the security features and architecture of an AIS accurately mediate and enforce the security policy. Note: The two main aspects of assurance are effectiveness and correctness (ITSEC - European Information Technology Security Evaluation Criteria) or development and evaluation assurance (Federal Criteria). [AJP] (I) (1.) An attribute of an information system that provides grounds for having confidence that the system operates such that the system security policy is enforced. (2.) A procedure that ensures a system is developed and operated as intended by the systems security policy. [RFC2828] A measure of confidence that a security feature and architecture of an automated information system mediates and enforces a security policy. [IATF] A measure of confidence that the security features and architecture of an AIS accurately mediate and enforce the security policy. [NCSC/TG004][NSAINT] Confidence that a computer system design meets its requirements, that its implementation meets its specification, or that some specific property is satisfied. [SRV] Grounds for confidence that a system design meets its requirements, or that its implemented satisfies specifications, or that some specific property is satisfied. [CIAO] Grounds for confidence that an entity meets its security objectives. [CC2][CC21][SC27] Grounds for confidence that an entity meets its security objectives. [ISO/IEC 15408-1: 1999] Performance of appropriate activities or processes to instill confidence that a deliverable meets its security objectives. [SC27] Grounds for confidence that the other four security goals (integrity, availability, confidentiality, and accountability) have been adequately met by a specific implementation. 'Adequately met' includes (1) functionality that performs correctly, (2) sufficient protection against unintentional errors (by users or software), and (3) sufficient resistance to intentional penetration or bypass. [800-30] Grounds for confidence that the other four security objectives (integrity, availability, confidentiality, and accountability) have been adequately met by a specific implementation. 'Adequately met' includes (1) functionality that performs correctly, (2) sufficient protection against unintentional errors (by users or software), and (3) sufficient resistance to intentional penetration or by-pass. [800-33] In the context of OMB 04-04 and NIST SP 800-63, assurance is defined as 1) the degree of confidence in the vetting process used to establish the identity of an individual to whom the credential was issued, and 2) the degree of confidence that the individual who uses the credential is the individual to whom the credential was issued. [800-63] Measure of confidence that the security features, practices, procedures, and architecture of an IS accurately mediates and enforces the security policy. [CNSSI] Performance of appropriate activities or processes to instill confidence that a deliverable meets its security objectives. [SC27] The confidence that may be held in the security provided by a Target of Evaluation. [ITSEC] The degree of confidence that a TOE adequately fulfills the security requirements. Note: The two main aspects of assurance are effectiveness and correctness. [JTC1/SC27] (see also Common Criteria, advanced self-protection jammer, augmentation, authentication, availability, bebugging, closed security environment, communications deception, component dependencies, component extensibility, component hierarchy, computer security, computing security methods, confidentiality, controlled access protection, data privacy, demilitarized zone, electronic protection, environmental failure protection, error seeding, exploit, extension, fetch protection, file protection, functional protection requirements, hardening, identity, information protection policy, information systems security manager, infrastructure protection, level of protection, lock-and-key protection system, minimum level of protection, network security, nonrepudiation, object, open security environment, package, physical protection, port protection device, privacy protection, product rationale, protection needs elicitation, protection philosophy, protection profile, protection profile family, protection ring, protection-critical portions of the TCB, public-key infrastructure, purge, quality of protection, security evaluation, security objectives, security target, suspicious activity report, trusted computer system, trusted computing system, user, validation, European Information Technology Security Evaluation Criteria, Federal Criteria for Information Technology Security, evaluation, security, security goals, target of evaluation) (includes assurance approach, assurance authority, assurance component, assurance element, assurance level, assurance method, assurance profile, assurance results, assurance scheme, assurance stage, assure, automated information system, confidence, configuration management, development assurance, development assurance component, development assurance package, development assurance requirements, effectiveness, evaluation assurance, evaluation assurance component, evaluation assurance package, evaluation assurance requirements, evidence, high assurance guard, identification and authentication, information assurance, infrastructure assurance, integrity, process assurance, profile assurance, quality assurance, quality assurance/control, rating, robustness, software quality assurance, test)

assurance approach

A grouping of assurance methods according to the aspect examined. [SC27] (see also assurance)

assurance authority

A person or body responsible (accountable) for the selection, implementation and acceptance of assurance. NOTE - In specific schemes or organisations, the term for assurance authority may be different such as evaluation authority. [SC27] (see also assurance)

assurance component

Security assurance components are used to express ordered sets of requirements for developer and evaluator actions, and for the content and presentation of evaluation deliverables. Components are grouped into families (e.g. High Level Design) and into classes (e.g. Development). [CC1] (see also Common Criteria for Information Technology Security Evaluation, assurance, component)

assurance element

A process or activity of an assurance method, in itself recognised to provide reproducible assurance results. [SC27] (see also assurance)

assurance level

(I) Evaluation usage: A specific level on a hierarchical scale representing successively increased confidence that a target of evaluation adequately fulfills the requirements. [RFC2828] A relative measure of confidence in the quality of a credential; when used in Eauth the assurance level ranges from level 1 (little or no confidence) to level 4 (very high degree of confidence) [GSA] In evaluation criteria, a specific level on a hierarchical scale representing successively increased confidence that a TOE adequately fulfills the security requirements. [AJP][JTC1/SC27] The amount of assurance obtained according to the specific scale used by the assurance method. The amount of assurance obtained generally is related to the effort expended on the activities performed. NOTE - The assurance level may not be measurable in quantitative terms. [SC27] (see also confidence, federation, assurance)

assurance method

Documented set of assurance elements recognised to obtain reproducible assurance results. [SC27] (see also assurance)

assurance profile

An assurance requirement for a TOE whereby different levels of confidence are required in different security enforcing functions. [AJP][ITSEC] (see also confidence, assurance)

assurance results

Documented numerical or qualitative assurance statement obtained by applying an assurance method. [SC27] (see also assurance)

assurance scheme

The administrative and regulatory framework under which an assurance method is applied by an assurance authority within a specific community or organisation. [SC27] (see also assurance)

assurance stage

The deliverable life cycle stage on which a given assurance method is focused. The overall deliverable assurance takes into account the results of the assurance methods applied throughout the deliverable life cycle. [SC27] (see also assurance)

assure

For the purposes of these procedures and guidelines, to guarantee through independent management processes that GRC's IT Security Program elements are carried out. [NASA] (see also ensure, assurance)

assured software

Software that has been designed, developed, analyzed and tested using processes, tools, and techniques that establish a level of confidence in its trustworthiness appropriate for its intended use. [CNSSI]

asymmetric algorithm

An encryption algorithm that requires two different keys for encryption and decryption. These keys are commonly referred to as the public and private keys. Asymmetric algorithms are slower than symmetric algorithms. Furthermore, speed of encryption may be different than the speed of decryption. Generally asymmetric algorithms are either used to exchange symmetric session keys or to digitally sign a message. RSA, RPK, and ECC are examples of asymmetric algorithms. [IATF][misc] (see also algorithm, asymmetric cryptography) (includes Diffie-Hellman, Rivest-Shamir-Adleman, elliptic curve cryptosystem, private key, public key, public-key cryptography standards)

asymmetric cipher

Alternative term for asymmetric encipherment system. [SC27] (see also asymmetric cryptography, cipher)

asymmetric cryptographic algorithm

asymmetric cryptographic technique

A cryptographic technique that uses two related transformations, a public transformation (defined by the public key) and a private transformation (defined by the private key). The two transformations have the property that, given the public transformation, it is computationally infeasible to derive the private transformation. [SC27] A cryptographic technique that uses two related transformations, a public transformation (defined by the public key) and a private transformation (defined by the private key). The two transformations have the property that, given the public transformation, it is computationally infeasible to derive the private transformation. NOTE - A system based on asymmetric cryptographic techniques can either be an encipherment system, a signature system, a combined encipherment and signature system, or a key agreement system. With asymmetric cryptographic techniques there are four elementary transformations: sign and verify for signature systems, encipher and decipher for encipherment systems. The signature and decipherment transformation are kept private by the owning entity, whereas the corresponding verification and encipherment transformation are published. There exist asymmetric cryptosystems (e.g. RSA) where the four elementary functions may be achieved by only two transformations: one private transformation suffices for both signing and decrypting messages, and one public transformation suffices for both verifying and encrypting messages. However, since this is not the general case, throughout ISO/IEC 9798 the four elementary transformations and the corresponding keys are kept separate. [SC27] A cryptographic technique that uses two related transformations, a public transformation (defined by the public key) and a private transformation (defined by the private key). The two transformations have the property that, given the public transformation, it is computationally infeasible to derive the private transformation. NOTE - A system based on asymmetric cryptographic techniques can either be an encipherment system, a signature system, a combined encipherment and signature system, or a key agreement system. With asymmetric cryptographic techniques there are four elementary transformations: sign and verify for signature systems, encipher and decipher for encipherment systems. The signature and decipherment transformation are kept private by the owning entity, whereas the corresponding verification and encipherment transformation are published. There exist asymmetric cryptosystems (e.g. RSA) where the four elementary functions may be achieved by only two transformations: one private transformation suffices for both signing and decrypting messages, and one public transformation suffices for both verifying and encrypting messages. However, since this is not the general case, throughout ISO/IEC 9798 the four elementary transformations and the corresponding keys are kept separate. [ISO/IEC 9798-1: 1997] A cryptographic technique that uses two related transformations, a public transformation (defined by the public key) and a private transformation (defined by the private key). The two transformations have the property that, given the public transformation, it is computationally infeasible to derive the private transformation. [ISO/IEC 11770-1: 1996, ISO/IEC FDIS 15946-3 (02/2001)] A cryptographic technique that uses two related transformations, a public transformation (defined by the public key) and a private transformation (defined by the private key). The two transformations have the property that, given the public transformation, it is computationally infeasible to derive the private transformation. NOTE - A system based on asymmetric cryptographic techniques can either be an encipherment system, a signature system, a combined encipherment and signature system, or a key agreement system. With asymmetric cryptographic techniques there are four elementary transformations: sign and verify for signature systems, encipher and decipher for encipherment systems. The signature and the decipherment transformation are kept private by the owning entity, whereas the corresponding verification and encipherment transformation are published. There exist asymmetric cryptosystems (e.g. RSA) where the four elementary functions may be achieved by only two transformations: one private transformation suffices for both signing and decrypting messages, and one public transformation suffices for both verifying and encrypting messages. However, since this does not conform to the principle of key separation, throughout this part of ISO/IEC 11770 the four elementary transformations and the corresponding keys are kept separate. [ISO/IEC 11770-3: 1999] Cryptographic technique that uses two related transformations, a public transformation (defined by the public key) and a private transformation (defined by the private key). The two transformations have the property that, given the public transformation, it is computationally infeasible to derive the private transformation. [SC27] A cryptographic technique that uses two related transformations, a public transformation (defined by the public key) and a private transformation (defined by the private key). The two transformations have the property that, given the public transformation, it is computationally infeasible to derive the private transformation. NOTE - A system based on asymmetric cryptographic techniques can either be an encipherment system, a signature system, a combined encipherment and signature system, or a key agreement system. With asymmetric cryptographic techniques there are four elementary transformations: sign and verify for signature systems, encipher and decipher for encipherment systems. The signature and the decipherment transformation are kept private by the owning entity, whereas the corresponding verification and encipherment transformation are published. There exist asymmetric cryptosystems (e.g. RSA) where the four elementary functions may be achieved by only two transformations: one private transformation suffices for both signing and decrypting messages, and one public transformation suffices for both verifying and encrypting messages. However, since this does not conform to the principle of key separation, throughout this part of ISO/IEC 11770 the four elementary transformations and the corresponding keys are kept separate. [SC27] Cryptographic technique that uses two related transformations, a public transformation (defined by the public key) and a private transformation (defined by the private key). The two transformations have the property that, given the public transformation, it is computationally infeasible to derive the private transformation. [SC27] (see also cipher, cryptographic system, asymmetric cryptography)

asymmetric cryptography

(I) A modern branch of cryptography (popularly known as 'public-key cryptography') in which the algorithms employ a pair of keys (a public key and a private key) and use a different component of the pair for different steps of the algorithm. (C) Asymmetric algorithms have key management advantages over equivalently strong symmetric ones. First, one key of the pair does not need to be known by anyone but its owner; so it can more easily be kept secret. Second, although the other key of the pair is shared by all entities that use the algorithm, that key does not need to be kept secret from other, non-using entities; so the key distribution part of key management can be done more easily. (C) For encryption: In an asymmetric encryption algorithm, when Alice wants to ensure confidentiality for data she sends to Bob, she encrypts the data with a public key provided by Bob. Only Bob has the matching private key that is needed to decrypt the data. (C) For signature: In an asymmetric digital signature algorithm, when Alice wants to ensure data integrity or provide authentication for data she sends to Bob, she uses her private key to sign the data (i.e., create a digital signature based on the data). To verify the signature, Bob uses the matching public key that Alice has provided. (C) For key agreement: In an asymmetric key agreement algorithm, Alice and Bob each send their own public key to the other person. Then each uses their own private key and the other's public key to compute the new key value. [RFC2828] Cryptography that uses separate keys for encryption and decryption; also known as public key cryptography. [800-77] (see also authentication, confidentiality, digital signature, encryption, integrity, key, cryptography) (includes asymmetric algorithm, asymmetric cipher, asymmetric cryptographic technique, asymmetric encipherment system, asymmetric encryption algorithm, asymmetric key pair, asymmetric signature system, public key derivation function, public key information, public key system)

asymmetric encipherment system

A system based on asymmetric cryptographic techniques whose public transformation is used for encipherment and whose private transformation is used for decipherment. [SC27] A system based on asymmetric cryptographic techniques whose public transformation is used for encipherment and whose private transformation is used for decipherment. [ISO/IEC 9798-1: 1997, ISO/IEC 11770-3: 1999, ISO/IEC FDIS 15946-3 (02/2001)] System based on asymmetric cryptographic techniques whose public transformation is used for encipherment and whose private transformation is used for decipherment. NOTE - An asymmetric encipherment system is an asymmetric cryptographic technique that is also an encryption algorithm. [SC27] System based on asymmetric cryptographic techniques whose public transformation is used for encipherment and whose private transformation is used for decipherment. NOTE - An asymmetric encipherment system is an asymmetric cryptographic technique that is also an encryption algorithm. [SC27] (see also asymmetric cryptography, cipher, system)

asymmetric encryption algorithm

Alternative term for asymmetric encipherment system. [SC27] (see also cipher, asymmetric cryptography)

asymmetric key pair

A pair of related keys where the private key defines the private transformation and the public key defines the public transformation. [SC27] A pair of related keys where the private key defines the private transformation and the public key defines the public transformation. [ISO/IEC 9798-1: 1997, ISO/IEC 11770-3: 1999, ISO/IEC FDIS 15946-3 (02/2001)] Pair of related keys where the private key defines the private transformation and the public key defines the public transformation. [SC27] Pair of related keys where the private key defines the private transformation and the public key defines the public transformation. [SC27] (see also asymmetric cryptography)

asymmetric keys

Two related keys, a public key and a private key that are used to perform complementary operations, such as encryption and decryption or signature generation and signature verification. [800-63]

asymmetric signature system

A system based on asymmetric cryptographic techniques whose private transformation is used for signing and whose public transformation is used for verification. [SC27] (see also asymmetric cryptography, system)

asynchronous attacks

Attacks that take advantage of dynamic system actions and the ability to manipulate the timing of those actions. [AFSEC] (see also attack)

asynchronous communication

Two modems communicating asynchronously rely upon each one to send the other start and stop signals in order to pace the exchange of information. [SRV] (see also communications)

asynchronous transfer mode (ATM)

A dedicated connection switching technology that organizes digital data into fixed byte cell units and transmits those units over a physical medium using digital signal technology. It is implemented by hardware, therefore, very fast processing and switching speeds are possible. [IATF] A fast-packet technology that was developed for use in area networks using fixed-length cells. It appears to be the best alternative for multimedia applications where data are mixed with voice, images, or full-motion video. [SRV] (see also networks, security)

attack

(I) An assault on system security that derives from an intelligent threat, i.e., an intelligent act that is a deliberate attempt (especially in the sense of a method or technique) to evade security services and violate the security policy of a system.

Active vs. passive: An 'active attack' attempts to alter system resources or affect their operation. A 'passive attack' attempts to learn or make use of information from the system but does not affect system resources.
Insider vs. outsider: An 'inside attack' is an attack initiated by an entity inside the security perimeter (an 'insider'), i.e., an entity that is authorized to access system resources but uses them in a way not approved by those who granted the authorization. An 'outside attack' is initiated from outside the perimeter, by an unauthorized or illegitimate user of the computer system (an 'outsider'). In the Internet, potential outside attackers range from amateur pranksters to organized criminals, international terrorists, and hostile governments.


+ - - - - - - - - - - - - +  + - - - - +  + - - - - - - - - - - -+
| An Attack:              |  |Counter- |  | A System Resource:   |
| i.e., A Threat Action   |  | measure |  | Target of the Attack |
| +----------+            |  |         |  | +-----------------+  |
| | Attacker |<==================||<=========                 |  |
| | i.e.,    | Passive    |  |         |  | | Vulnerability   |  |
| | A Threat |<=================>||<========>                 |  |
| | Agent    | or Active  |  |         |  | +-------|||-------+  |
| +----------+  Attack    |  |         |  |         VVV          |
|                         |  |         |  | Threat Consequences  |
+ - - - - - - - - - - - - +  + - - - - +  + - - - - - - - - - - -+

[RFC2828] 1) A discrete malicious action of debilitating intent inflicted by one entity upon another. A threat might attack a critical infrastructure to destroy or incapacitate it. 2) Intentional attempt to bypass the physical or information security measures and controls protecting an IT system. [CIAO] An attempt to bypass security controls on a computer. An active attack alters data. A passive attack releases data. Whether an attack will succeed depends on the vulnerability of the computer system and the effectiveness of existing countermeasures. [AFSEC] An attempt to bypass security controls on a computer. The attack may alter, release, or deny data. Whether an attack will succeed depends on the vulnerability of the computer system and the effectiveness of existing countermeasures. [NSAINT] An attempt to bypass security controls on a computer. The attack may alter, release, or deny data. Whether an attack will succeed depends on the vulnerability of the computer system and the effectiveness of existing countermeasures. The act of trying to bypass security controls on a system. An attack may be active, resulting in the alteration of data; or passive, resulting in the release of data. Note: The fact that an attack is made does not necessarily mean that it will succeed. The degree of success depends on the vulnerability of the system or activity and the effectiveness of existing countermeasures. [OVT] An attempt to exploit an IT system vulnerability. [SC27] An attempt to obtain a Subscriber's token or to fool a Verifier into believing that an unauthorized individual possess a Claimant's token. [800-63] Attempt to gain unauthorized access to an IS's services, resources, or information, or the attempt to compromise an IS's integrity, availability, or confidentiality. [CNSSI] The act of trying to bypass security controls on a system. An attack may be active, resulting in the alteration of data; or passive, resulting in the release of data. Note: The fact that an attack is made does not necessarily mean that it will succeed. The degree of success depends on the vulnerability of the computer system or activity and the effectiveness of existing countermeasures. [AJP][NCSC/TG004][SRV] The intentional act of attempting to bypass security controls on an automated information system. [IATF] (see also security software, Diffie-Hellman, POP3 APOP, SOF-basic, SOF-high, SOF-medium, access control, agent, alert, anonymous, attack signature recognition, authentication header, authorization, authorized, availability, bastion host, blinding, checksum, compromise, computer emergency response team/ coordination center, cookies, countermeasure, cryptanalysis, elliptic curve cryptography, entropy, evasion, exploit, flaw hypothesis methodology, guessing entropy, handler, hash function, hijacking, honeypot, impact, indicator, internet, jamming, kerberos, key validation, mailbombing, manipulation detection code, min-entropy, networks, nonce, pharming, precursor, privacy system, protected checksum, remote administration tool, risk value, salt, scenario, security audit, security management infrastructure, signature, strength of a requirement, strength of function, strength of mechanisms, survivability, threat consequence, tiger team, traceability, trusted process, victim, vulnerability, vulnerability assessment, zombie, incident, risk, security, threat) (includes Attack Sensing and Warning, C2-attack, ICMP flood, IP splicing/hijacking, SYN flood, Star Trek attack, TTY watcher, active attack, application server attack, asynchronous attacks, attack potential, attack signature, attackers, between-the-lines-entry, blended attack, browsing, brute force, brute force attack, check_password, chosen-ciphertext attack, chosen-plaintext attack, ciphertext-only attack, computer intrusion, computer network attack, cut-and-paste attack, cyberattack, data diddling, data driven attack, demon dialer, denial of service, dictionary attack, eavesdropping, eavesdropping attack, electronic attack, flooding, hijack attack, impersonation, insider attack, interleaving attack, keystroke monitoring, killer packets, known-plaintext attack, laboratory attack, leapfrog attack, man-in-the-middle, man-in-the-middle attack, masquerade attack, masquerading, mimicking, nak attack, off-line attack, on-line attack, online guessing attack, pagejacking, passive attack, penetration, perpetrator, phreaking, piggyback attack, ping of death, ping sweep, port scan, reflection attack, replay attack, rootkit, scanning, scavenging, session hijack attack, shoulder surfing, smurf, smurfing, social engineering, spoofing, spoofing attack, subversion, tampering, technical attack, technological attack, terminal hijacking, timing attacks, tunneling attack, warehouse attack, wiretapping)

attack potential

The perceived potential for success of an attack, should an attack be launched, expressed in terms of an attacker's expertise, resources and motivation. [CC2][CC21][OVT][SC27] (see also attack)

Attack Sensing and Warning

Detection, correlation, identification, and characterization of intentional unauthorized activity with notification to decision makers so that an appropriate response can be developed. [CNSSI] (see also authorized, attack)

attack signature

Activities or alterations to an IS indicating an attack or attempted attack, detectable by examination of audit trail logs. [CIAO] (see also audit, attack, attack signature recognition)

attack signature recognition

To recognize specific identifiable characteristics technical, procedural, or equipment-based of known attack profiles. [CIAO] (see also attack, security software) (includes attack signature, virus signature)

attackers

A party who acts with malicious intent to assault an information system. [800-63] Someone with a strong interest in computers, who enjoys learning about them and experimenting with them. [800-82] (see also min-entropy, attack)

attribute

A characteristic that describes a person, thing, or event. An inherent quality that an item either has or does not have. [SRV] Attributes are properties of an entity. An entity is said to be described by its attributes. In a database, the attributes of an entity have their analogues in the fields of a record. In an object database, instance variables may be considered attributes of the object. [SRV] (see also quality)

attribute authority

(I) A CA that issues attribute certificates. (O) 'An authority, trusted by the verifier to delegate privilege, that issues attribute certificates.' [RFC2828] An entity trusted by one or more entities to create and sign attribute certificates. Note that a CA may also be an AA. [SC27] (see also certificate, trust, public-key infrastructure)

attribute certificate

(I) A digital certificate that binds a set of descriptive data items, other than a public key, either directly to a subject name or to the identifier of another certificate that is a public-key certificate. (O) 'A set of attributes of a user together with some other information, rendered unforgeable by the digital signature created using the private key of the CA that issued it.' (O) 'A data structure which includes some attribute values and identification information about the owner of the attribute certificate, all digitally signed by an Attribute Authority. This authority's signature serves as the guarantee of the binding between the attributes and their owner.' (C) A public-key certificate binds a subject name to a public key value, along with information needed to perform certain cryptographic functions. Other attributes of a subject, such as a security clearance, may be certified in a separate kind of digital certificate, called an attribute certificate. A subject may have multiple attribute certificates associated with its name or with each of its public-key certificates. (C) An attribute certificate might be issued to a subject in the following situations:

Different lifetimes: When the lifetime of an attribute binding is shorter than that of the related public-key certificate, or when it is desirable not to need to revoke a subject's public key just to revoke an attribute.
Different authorities: When the authority responsible for the attributes is different than the one that issues the public-key certificate for the subject. (There is no requirement that an attribute certificate be issued by the same CA that issued the associated public-key certificate.)

[RFC2828] (see also cryptography, digital signature, identification, key, certificate)

attribute sampling

In attribute sampling, the selected sampling units are measured or evaluated in terms of whether they have the attribute of interest, and some statistical measure (statistic) is computed from these measurements to estimate the proportion of the population that has the attribute. [SRV]

audit

A family of security controls in the technical class dealing with ensuring activity involving access to and modification of sensitive or critical files is logged, monitored, and possible security violations investigated. [800-37] A service that keeps a detailed record of events. [IATF] An independent examination of a work product or set of work products to assess compliance with specifications, standards, contractual agreements, or other criteria. [IEEE610] Independent review and examination of records and activities to assess the adequacy of system controls, to ensure compliance with established policies and operational procedures, and to recommend necessary changes in controls, policies, or procedures. [CNSSI] Independent review and examination of records and activities to assess the adequacy of system controls, to ensure compliance with established security policies and procedures, and/or to recommend necessary changes in controls, policies, or procedures to meet security objectives. [CIAO] Independent review and examination of records and activities to assess the adequacy of system controls; to ensure compliance with established policies and operational procedures; and to recommend necessary changes in controls, policies, or procedures. [GSA] Independent review and examination of records and activities to determine compliance with established usage policies and to detect possible inadequacies in product technical security policies of their enforcement. [AJP][FCv1] The independent examination of records and activities to ensure compliance with established controls, policy, and operational procedures, and to recommend any indicated changes in controls, policy, or procedures. [NSAINT] The independent examination of records to access their veracity and completeness. To record independently and examine documents or system activity (e.g. logins and logouts, file accesses, security violations). [AFSEC] The official review, examination, and verification of system records and activities to ensure the adequacy of established IT security controls and procedures; to identify any nonfunctional controls or new vulnerabilities [NASA] (see also Identification Protocol, access control, accountability, alert, application proxy, archive, attack signature, confidence, distributed computing environment, functional component, gap analysis, host based, identify, independence, intrusion detection, intrusion detection system, key management, key-escrow, keystroke monitoring, login, network based, network component, population, sas 70 report, secure single sign-on, security features, security software, sniffer, system security officer, threat monitoring, trust, vulnerability analysis, work program, security) (includes audit charter, audit data, audit plan, audit program, audit record, audit service, audit software, audit trail, audit/review, auditing tool, computer operations, audit, and security technology, computer-assisted audit technique, information systems audit and control association, information systems audit and control foundation, multihost based auditing, security audit, test, vulnerability audit)

audit charter

A document approved by the board of directors that defines the IT audit function's responsibility, authority to review records, and accountability. [FFIEC] (see also audit)

audit data

Chronological record of system activities to enable the reconstruction and examination of the sequence of events and changes in an event. [GSA] (see also audit)

audit plan

A description and schedule of audits to be performed in a certain period of time (ordinarily a year). It includes the areas to be audited, the type of work planned, the high-level objectives and scope of the work and includes other items such as budget, resource allocation, schedule dates, and type of report issued. [FFIEC] (see also audit)

audit program

The audit policies, procedures, and strategies that govern the audit function, including IT audit. [FFIEC] (see also audit)

audit record

An individual item of information contained in an audit trail [NASA] (see also audit)

audit service

(I) A security service that records information needed to establish accountability for system events and for the actions of system entities that cause them. [RFC2828] (see also audit)

audit software

Generic software consisting of computer programs to analyze data stored on computer media. The software can be used to sample data, compare data fields, match data files, perform computations, etc. [SRV] (see also audit, software)

audit trail

(1) A set of records that collectively provide documentary evidence of processing used to aid in tracing from original transactions forward to related records and reports, and/or backward from records and reports to their component source transactions. (2) A chronological record of system activities that is sufficient to enable the reconstruction, reviewing, and examination of the sequence of environments and activities surrounding or leading to an operation, a procedure, or an event in a transaction from its inception to final results. (3) Information collected or used to facilitate a security audit. Note: Audit trail may apply to information in an IT product or an AIS or to the transfer of COMSEC (communications security) material. [AJP] (1) A set of records that collectively provide documentary evidence of processing used to aid in tracing from original transactions forward to related records and reports, and/or backward from records and reports to their component source transactions. (2) Information collected or used to facilitate a Security Audit. [TNI] A chronological record of system activities that is sufficient to enable the reconstruction, review, and examination of the sequence of events and activities surrounding or leading to each event in the path of a transaction from its inception to the output of final results. The ability to trace data or transactions from origination to output and back. [SRV] A chronological record of system activities that is sufficient to enable the reconstruction, reviewing, and examination of the sequence of environments and activities surrounding or leading to an operation, a procedure, or an event in a transaction from its inception to final results. [NCSC/TG004][SRV] A chronological record of system activities to enable the reconstruction and examination of the sequence of events and/or changes in an event. Note: Audit trail may apply to information in an IT product or an AIS or to the transfer of COMSEC material. [FCv1] A set of records that collectively provide documentary evidence of processing used to aid in tracing from original transactions forward to related records and reports, and/or backward from records and reports to their component source transactions. [TCSEC] Chronological record of system activities or message routing that permits reconstruction and examination of a sequence of events. [CIAO] Chronological record of system activities to enable the reconstruction and examination of the sequence of events and/or changes in an event. [CNSSI] In computer security systems, a chronological record of system resource usage. This includes user login, file access, other various activities, and whether any actual or attempted security violations occurred, legitimate and unauthorized. [NSAINT] In computer security systems, a chronological record of when users login, how long they are engaged in various activities, what they were doing, whether any actual or attempted security violations occurred. An automated or manual set of chronological records of system activities that may enable the reconstruction and examination of a sequence of events and/or changes in an event. [AFSEC] The chronological record of system activities sufficient to enable the reconstruction, review, or examination of the sequence of internal environments and activities surrounding or leading to each event in the path of a user transaction from its inception to output of final results. [NASA] (see also logging, access control, authorized, communications security, computer security, evidence, login, user, audit, threat monitoring) (includes automated information system, console logs, security audit trail)

audit/review

The survey of an IT system to evaluate the adequacy of implemented controls, assure that they are functioning properly, identify vulnerabilities, and assist in implementation of new controls where required. This survey is conducted annually or whenever significant change has occurred for all IT systems and may lead to recertification of the IT system. [NASA] (see also identify, audit)

auditing tool

Tools to analyze computer systems or networks in regard to their security status or in relation to the set of services provided by them. COPS (Computer Oracle Password and Security analyzer) and SATAN (Security Administrator's Tool for Analyzing Networks) are famous examples of such tools. [RFC2504] (see also networks, passwords, audit)

augmentation

The addition of one or more assurance component(s) from Part 3 to an EAL or assurance package. [CC2][CC21][SC27] (see also assurance)

authentic signature

(I) A signature (particularly a digital signature) that can be trusted because it can be verified. [RFC2828] (see also digital signature, trust)

authenticate

(1) To verify the identity of a user, device, or other entity in a system, often as a prerequisite to allowing access to resources in a system. (2) To verify the integrity of data that have been stored, transmitted, or otherwise exposed to possible unauthorized modification. [NCSC/TG004][SRV] (1) To verify the identity of a user, user device, or other entity, or the integrity of data stored, transmitted, or otherwise exposed to unauthorized modification in an IT product. (2) To verify the validity of a claimed identity of a user, device, or other entity in a system, often as a prerequisite to allowing access to resources in a system. (3) To verify the integrity of data that have been stored, transmitted, or otherwise exposed to possible unauthorized modification. [AJP] (I) Verify (i.e., establish the truth of) an identity claimed by or for a system entity. (D) In general English usage, this term usually means 'to prove genuine' (e.g. an art expert authenticates a Michelangelo painting). But the recommended definition carries a much narrower meaning. For example, to be precise, an ISD SHOULD NOT say 'the host authenticates each received datagram'. Instead, the ISD SHOULD say 'the host authenticates the origin of each received datagram'. In most cases, we also can say 'and verifies the datagram's integrity', because that is usually implied. (D) ISDs SHOULD NOT talk about authenticating a digital signature or digital certificate. Instead, we 'sign' and then 'verify' digital signatures, and we 'issue' and then 'validate' digital certificates. [RFC2828] In networking, to establish the validity of a user or an object (i.e., communications server). [AFSEC] To confirm the identity of an entity when that identity is presented. [GSA] To establish the validity of a claimed identity. [NSAINT][TCSEC] To verify the identity of a user, user device, or other entity, or the integrity of data stored, transmitted, or otherwise exposed to unauthorized modification in an IS, or to establish the validity of a transmission. [CNSSI] Verify the identity of a user, user device, or other entity, or the integrity of data stored, transmitted, or otherwise exposed to unauthorized modification in an IT product. [FCv1] (see also access control, authorized, certificate, digital signature, identity, integrity, networks, public-key infrastructure, user, authentication)

authentication

Authentication is the process of establishing confidence in user identities. This is accomplished by establishing that someone is in fact who he or she claims to be. [GSA] Verifying the identity of a user, process, or device, often as a prerequisite to allowing access to resources in an information system. [800-60] (1) To establish the validity of a claimed identity. (2) To provide protection against fraudulent transactions by establishing the validity of a message, station, individual, or originator. [TNI] (1) To establish the validity of a claimed identity. (2) To provide protection against fraudulent transactions by establishing the validity of a message, station, individual, or originator. (3) Means of verifying an entity's (e.g. individual user's, machine's, or software component's) eligibility to receive specific categories of information. [AJP] (I) The process of verifying an identity claimed by or for a system entity. (C) An authentication process consists of two steps:

Identification step: Presenting an identifier to the security system. (Identifiers should be assigned carefully, because authenticated identities are the basis for other security services, such as access control service.)
Verification step: Presenting or generating authentication information that corroborates the binding between the entity and the identifier.

[RFC2828] Authentication refers to mechanisms which are used to verify the identity of a user. The process of authentication typically requires a name and a password to be supplied by the user as proof of his identity. [RFC2504] Means of verifying an entity's (e.g. individual user, machine, software component) eligibility to receive specific categories of information. [FCv1] Providing assurance regarding the identity of a subject or object, for example ensuring that a particular user is who he or she claims to be. [SRV] Security measure designed to establish the validity of a transmission, message, or originator, or a means of verifying an individual's authorization to access specific types of information. [CIAO] Security measure designed to establish the validity of a transmission, message, or originator, or a means of verifying an individual's authorization to receive specific categories of information. [800-37][CNSSI][IATF] The process of confirming an asserted identity with a specified or understood level of confidence. [GAO06178] The process of establishing confidence in the identity of users or information systems. [800-63] The process of establishing confidence of authenticity; in this case, in the validity of a person's identity and the PIV Card. [GSA] The process of identifying an individual, in computer systems this is usually based on a username and password. In security systems, authentication is distinct from authorization , that is the process of giving individuals access to system objects based on their identity. Authentication merely ensures that the individual is who he or she claims to be, but says nothing about the access rights of the individual. [800-103] The process of identifying an individual, usually based on a username and password. In security systems, authentication is distinct from authorization, which is the process of giving individuals access to system objects based on their identity. Authentication merely ensures that the individual is who he or she claims to be, but says nothing about the access rights of the individual. [VA] The process of verifying that a user requesting a network resource is who he, she, or it claims to be, and vice versa. Trust is a critical concept in network security. Any network resource (such as a file server or printer) typically requires authentication before granting access. Authentication takes many forms, including but not limited to IP addresses; TCP or UDP port numbers; passwords; external token authentication cards; and biometric identification such as signature, speech, or retina recognition systems. The entity being authenticated might be the client machine (for example, by proving that a given IP source address really is that address, and not a rogue machine spoofing that address) or a user (by proving that the user really is who he, she, or it claims to be). Servers might also authenticate themselves to clients. Testers should be aware that in an increasingly mobile society, authentication based on machine-specific criteria such as an IP address or port number is not equivalent to verifying that a given individual is making an access request. At this writing systems that verify the identity of users are typically external to the firewall, and may introduce additional latency to the overall SUT. [RFC2647] The process of verifying the claimed identity of an individual user, machine, software component, or any other entity. [FFIEC] The provision of assurance of the claimed identity of an entity. [SC27] The validation and confirmation of an IT user's claim of identity, occasionally referred to as personal authentication The validation and identification of a computer network node, transmission, or message [NASA] To positively verify the identity of a user, device, or other entity in a system, often as a prerequisite to allowing access to resources in a system. [NSAINT] To positively verify the identity of a user, device, or other entity in a system, often as a prerequisite to allowing access to resources in a system. The verification of the integrity of data that have been stored, transmitted, or otherwise exposed to possible unauthorized modification. [AFSEC] Verifying the identity of a user, process, or device, often as a prerequisite to allowing access to resources in a system. [800-33] Verifying the identity of a user, process, or device, often as a prerequisite to allowing access to resources in an information system. [800-53][800-82] (see also COMSEC control program, COMSEC equipment, Diffie-Hellman, FIPS approved security method, Generic Security Service Application Program Interface, IMAP4 AUTHENTICATE, IP splicing/hijacking, IPsec Key Exchange, IT security, Internet Engineering Task Force, Internet Protocol security, Internet Security Association and Key Management Protocol, Lightweight Directory Access Protocol, OAKLEY, POP3 APOP, POP3 AUTH, Post Office Protocol, version 3, Rivest-Shamir-Adleman, S/Key, SOCKS, Secure Electronic Transaction, Terminal Access Controller Access Control System, The Exponential Encryption System, X.509, access control, account authority digital signature, active attack, anonymous and guest login, assurance, asymmetric cryptography, authenticity, authorization, authorized, biometric measurement, biometrics, call back, certificate policy, certificate revocation list, certificate status responder, certification authority digital signature, challenge-response protocol, challenge/response, claimant, code, common data security architecture, communications security, computer cryptography, confidence, credentials, critical security parameters, crypto-algorithm, cryptographic key, data integrity service, data key, defense-wide information assurance program, dictionary attack, digital id, digital signature, distributed computing environment, domain name system, dongle, eavesdropping attack, electronic credentials, encapsulating security payload, entity, exchange multiplicity parameter, fingerprint, fraud, handshaking procedures, hash function, impersonation, individual electronic accountability, information assurance, information systems security, integrity, interleaving attack, keyed hash, keyed hash algorithm, keying material, man-in-the-middle, man-in-the-middle attack, masquerading, message integrity code, network component, non-repudiation service, nonce, nonrepudiation, object, off-line attack, on-line attack, one-time passwords, origin authenticity, passive attack, password system, passwords, point-to-point protocol, practice statement, pretty good privacy, privacy enhanced mail, proof of possession protocol, protection suite, proxy, proxy server, public-key forward secrecy, public-key infrastructure, realm, registration, registration authority, replay attack, sandboxed environment, secret, secure shell, secure socket layer, secure sockets layer, security assertion mark-up language, security association identifier, security controls, security mechanism, session hijack attack, shared secret, simple network management protocol, single sign-on, software, spoofing, symmetric key, system entity, system entry, test, third party trusted host model, tokens, transport layer security, trust, trusted third party, user, user identifier, validate vs. verify, verifier, verifier impersonation attack, vulnerability, zero-knowledge password protocol, quality of protection, security) (includes 3-factor authentication, Challenge Handshake Authentication Protocol, Challenge-Response Authentication Mechanism, Data Authentication Algorithm, Distributed Authentication Security Service, Extensible Authentication Protocol, Password Authentication Protocol, SAML authentication assertion, Simple Authentication and Security Layer, authenticate, authentication code, authentication data, authentication exchange, authentication header, authentication header protocol, authentication protocol, authentication service, authentication system, authentication token, authentication tools, biometric authentication, challenge and reply authentication, data authentication code, data authentication code vs. Data Authentication Code, data origin authentication, data origin authentication service, electronic authentication, entity authentication, entity authentication of A to B, explicit key authentication from A to B, identification, identification authentication, implicit key authentication from A to B, key authentication, logon, low-cost encryption/authentication device, message authentication code, mutual authentication, mutual entity authentication, peer entity authentication, peer entity authentication service, privacy, authentication, integrity, non-repudiation, simple authentication, source authentication, strong authentication, unilateral authentication)

authentication code

(D) ISDs SHOULD NOT use this term as a synonym for any form of checksum, whether cryptographic or not. The word 'authentication' is misleading because the mechanism involved usually serves a data integrity function rather than an authentication function, and the word 'code' is misleading because it implies that either encoding or encryption is involved or that the term refers to computer software. [RFC2828] (see also cryptography, encryption, integrity, software, authentication)

authentication data

Information used to verify the claimed identity of a user. [CC2][CC21][SC27] (see also identity, authentication)

authentication exchange

(I) A mechanism to verify the identity of an entity by means of information exchange. (O) 'A mechanism intended to ensure the identity of an entity by means of information exchange.' [RFC2828] (see also identity, authentication)

authentication header (AH)

(I) An Internet IPsec protocol designed to provide connectionless data integrity service and data origin authentication service for IP datagrams, and (optionally) to provide protection against replay attacks. (C) Replay protection may be selected by the receiver when a security association is established. AH authenticates upper-layer protocol data units and as much of the IP header as possible. However, some IP header fields may change in transit, and the value of these fields, when the packet arrives at the receiver, may not be predictable by the sender. Thus, the values of such fields cannot be protected end-to-end by AH; protection of the IP header by AH is only partial when such fields are present. (C) AH may be used alone, or in combination with the IPsec ESP protocol, or in a nested fashion with tunneling. Security services can be provided between a pair of communicating hosts, between a pair of communicating security gateways, or between a host and a gateway. ESP can provide the same security services as AH, and ESP can also provide data confidentiality service. The main difference between authentication services provided by ESP and AH is the extent of the coverage; ESP does not protect IP header fields unless they are encapsulated by AH. [RFC2828] A field that immediately follows the IP header in an IP datagram and provides authentication and integrity checking for the datagram. [NSAINT] An IP device used to provide connectionless integrity and data origin authentication for IP datagrams. [IATF] (see also authentication header protocol, attack, confidentiality, integrity, Internet Protocol security, authentication, security protocol)

authentication header protocol

IPsec security protocol that can provide integrity protection for packet headers and data through authentication. [800-77] (see also authentication header, Internet Protocol security, authentication)

authentication information

(I) Information used to verify an identity claimed by or for an entity. (C) Authentication information may exist as, or be derived from, one of the following:

Something the entity knows.
Something the entity possesses.
Something the entity is.

[RFC2828] (see also identity, 3-factor authentication)

authentication protocol

A defined sequence of messages between a Claimant and a Verifier that protocol demonstrates that the Claimant has control of a valid token to establish his/her identity, and optionally, demonstrates to the Claimant that he or she is communicating with the intended Verifier. [800-63] (see also identity, authentication)

authentication service

(I) A security service that verifies an identity claimed by or for an entity. (C) In a network, there are two general forms of authentication service: data origin authentication service and peer entity authentication service. [RFC2828] (see also identity, networks, authentication)

authentication system

Cryptosystem or process used for authentication. [CNSSI] (see also cryptographic system, cryptography, authentication, system)

authentication token

A portable authenticating device that uses techniques such as challenge/response and time-based code sequences. [misc] (see also authentication, tokens)

authentication tools

(see also authentication, security software)

authenticator

Means used to confirm the identity of a station, originator, or individual. [CNSSI] Secrets that create the binding between credentials and it's presenter. [800-103] The means used to confirm the identity or to verify the eligibility of a station, originator, or individual. [AJP][NCSC/TG004] (see also identity)

authenticity

The property of being genuine and being able to be verified and trusted; confidence in the validity of a transmission, a message, or message originator. [800-60] (I) The property of being genuine and able to be verified and be trusted. [RFC2828] The principle that ensures that a message is received in exactly the same form in which it was sent. [AFSEC] The property of being genuine and being able to be verified and trusted; confidence in the validity of a transmission, a message, or message originator. [800-53] The property that data originated from its purported source. [800-63] The property that ensures that the identity of a subject or resource is the one claimed. Authenticity applies to entities such as users, processes, systems and information. [SC27] (see also authentication, confidence, identity, trust, integrity)

authority

(D) 'An entity, responsible for the issuance of certificates.' (C) ISDs SHOULD NOT use this term as a synonym for AA, CA, RA, ORA, or similar terms, because it may cause confusion. Instead, use the full term at the first instance of usage and then, if it is necessary to shorten text, use the style of abbreviation defined in this Glossary. (C) ISDs SHOULD NOT use this definition for any PKI entity, because the definition is ambiguous with regard to whether the entity actually issues certificates (e.g. attribute authority or certification authority) or just has accountability for processes that precede or follow signing (e.g. registration authority). [RFC2828] (see also certificate, certification, public-key infrastructure)

authority certificate

(D) 'A certificate issued to an authority (e.g. either to a certification authority or to an attribute authority).' (C) ISDs SHOULD NOT use this term or definition because they are ambiguous with regard to which specific types of PKI entities they address. [RFC2828] (see also certification, certificate)

authority revocation list

(I) A data structure that enumerates digital certificates that were issued to CAs but have been invalidated by their issuer prior to when they were scheduled to expire. (O) 'A revocation list containing a list of public-key certificates issued to authorities, which are no longer considered valid by the certificate issuer.' [RFC2828] (see also certificate, key)

authorization

Access privileges granted to a user, program, or process. [CIAO][CNSSI] Access rights granted to a user, program, or process. [AJP][FCv1] Authorization is the process of giving someone, once identified (i.e., authenticated), permission to do or have something. [GSA] Determining whether a subject is trusted to act for a given purpose, for example allowed to read a particular file. [SRV] Permission to perform some action. [800-103] The granting of access rights to a user, program, or process. [NCSC/TG004] The granting of appropriate access privileges to authenticated users. [GAO06178] The granting or denying of access rights to a user, program, or process. [800-33] The process of determining what types of activities are permitted. Usually, authorization is in the context of authentication. Once you have authenticated a user, the user may be authorized different types of access or activity. [AFSEC][IATF] The process of determining what types of activities or access are permitted for a given physical or logical resource. Once the identity of the user has been authenticated, they may be authorized to have access to a specific location, system, or service. In the context of logical access control, the process whereby a user's privileges to access and manipulate data objects are assigned. [GSA] The process of giving access to parts of a system, typically based on the business needs and the role of the individual within the business. [FFIEC] The process of granting or denying access to a network resource. Most computer security systems are based on a two-step process. The first stage is authentication, which ensures that a user is who he or she claims to be. The second stage is authorization, which allows the user access to various resources based on the user's identity. [VA] The process of granting or denying permission for different types of access or activity. [misc] The right or a permission that is granted to a system entity to access a system resource. [800-82] (see also Bell-LaPadula security model, Identification Protocol, RA domains, Remote Authentication Dial-In User Service, Simple Public Key Infrastructure/Simple Distributed Security Infrastructure, accreditation, acquirer, approval/accreditation, attack, authentication, category, certificate update, closed security environment, covert channel, cracker, credentials, dedicated security mode, eavesdropping, hacker, identity, insider, interface control document, interim accreditation, internal system exposure, intruder, intrusion, intrusion detection, key-escrow system, management controls, mode of operation, modes of operation, multilevel secure, multilevel security mode, open security environment, partitioned security mode, passwords, payment gateway, periods processing, personality label, personnel security, privilege management infrastructure, registration, risk index, risk management, security, security assertion mark-up language, security clearance, security intrusion, security management infrastructure, simple network management protocol, system-high security mode, trojan horse, trust, user partnership program, vulnerability, user) (includes ACL-based authorization, access control, authorization to process, authorize processing, authorized, delegation, list-oriented, multilevel security, need to know determination, permissions, pre-authorization, privilege, regrade, secure single sign-on, system security authorization agreement, ticket-oriented)

authorization to process

A signed declaration by a GRC line manager that the IT system is ready to process. [NASA] (see also authorization)

authorize processing

Occurs when management authorizes a system based on an assessment of management, operational and technical controls. By authorizing processing in a system the management official accepts the risk associated with it. [800-37] (see also assessment, risk, authorization)

authorized

(I) (1.) An 'authorization' is a right or a permission that is granted to a system entity to access a system resource. (2.) An 'authorization process' is a procedure for granting such rights. (3.) To 'authorize' means to grant such a right or permission. (O) SET usage: 'The process by which a properly appointed person or persons grants permission to perform some action on behalf of an organization. This process assesses transaction risk, confirms that a given transaction does not raise the account holder's debt above the account's credit limit, and reserves the specified amount of credit. (When a merchant obtains authorization, payment for the authorized amount is guaranteed--provided, of course, that the merchant followed the rules associated with the authorization process.)' [RFC2828] Entitled to a specific mode of access. [AJP][FCv1] (see also ACH debit fraud, Attack Sensing and Warning, Automated Information System security, Bell-LaPadula model, Bell-LaPadula security model, COMSEC equipment, COMSEC facility, Escrowed Encryption Standard, FIPS PUB 140-1, IP splicing/hijacking, IS related risk, IT security database, IT security incident, IT-related risk, PIV issuer, SOCKS, Simple Public Key Infrastructure/Simple Distributed Security Infrastructure, U.S.-controlled facility, U.S.-controlled space, acceptance criteria, access category, access control, access control list, access control mechanism, access control service, access list, access mediation, active wiretapping, adequate security, administrative access, administrative security, anonymous, application controls, application server attack, approved test methods list, attack, audit trail, authenticate, authentication, automated security incident measurement, availability, between-the-lines-entry, browse access protection, call back, call back security, capability, certification, certification authority, change control and life cycle management, classified, classified information, clearance, client server, communications security, compromise, compromised key list, computer abuse, computer intrusion, computer security intrusion, confidentiality, configuration control, control zone, controlled access area, controlled space, covert channel, covert channel analysis, critical system, cryptography, cryptoperiod, data compromise, data confidentiality, data confidentiality service, data integrity, data integrity service, data security, deception, deliberate exposure, demon dialer, denial of service, designated, designated laboratories list, disaster plan, disclosure of information, discretionary access control, downgrade, eavesdropping, egress point, electronic security, emanations security, emissions security, encryption, entry control, exposure, extranet, failure access, false acceptance rate, falsification, fetch protection, file protection, file security, firewall, fishbowl, frequency hopping, guard, hacker, hacking, honeypot, human error, identity, impact, impersonation, implant, inadvertent disclosure, inference, information assurance product, information security, information systems security, insertion, insider, integrity, integrity policy, intelligence activities, interception, internal security controls, intranet, intrusion, intrusion detection, intrusion detection system, intrusion detection tools, issuer, key distribution service, key recovery, leakage, least privilege, list-oriented, logic bomb, logical access, logical access control, logoff, logon, major application, malicious applets, malicious code, malicious logic, malicious program, malware, masquerade, masquerading, media protection, misappropriation, mission critical, mode of operation, modes of operation, motivation, national security information, need to know determination, network security, no-lone zone, open storage, operational data security, overt channel, passive, passive attack, passive threat, passwords, penetration, permissions, phage, physical and environmental protection, physical security, piggyback, piggyback entry, privacy, privileged access, privileged process, probe, protected network, protection ring, regrade, remote access, risk, rogue device, safeguarding statement, scavenging, secrecy policy, secret, secure state, security, security compromise, security incident, security violation, segregation of duties, sensitive information, session hijacking, signature, social engineering, split knowledge, sponsor, spoof, spoofing, subcommittee on Automated Information System security, subcommittee on telecommunications security, subject, substitution, superuser, system integrity, system integrity service, system security officer, system-high security mode, tamper, tamper resisting, tampering, tcpwrapper, theft of data, theft of functionality, theft of service, threat, ticket-oriented, time bomb, traditional INFOSEC program, trespass, trojan horse, trusted agent, trusted computing base, trusted identification forwarding, two-person control, two-person integrity, unclassified, unforgeable, user representative, usurpation, violation of permissions, vulnerability, authorization) (includes authorized person, authorized user, authorized vendor, authorized vendor program, unauthorized disclosure)

authorized person

A person who has a need-to-know for classified information in the performance of official duties and who has been granted a personnel clearance at the required level. [AFSEC] (see also authorized user, classified, authorized)

authorized user

A user who may, in accordance with the TSP, perform an operation. [CC2][CC21][SC27] (see also authorized person, authorized)

authorized vendor

Manufacturer of INFOSEC equipment authorized to produce quantities in excess of contractual requirements for direct sale to eligible buyers. Eligible buyers are typically U.S. Government organizations or U.S. Government contractors. [CNSSI] (see also cryptography, authorized)

authorized vendor program (AVP)

Program in which a vendor, producing an INFOSEC product under contract to NSA, is authorized to produce that product in numbers exceeding the contracted requirements for direct marketing and sale to eligible buyers. Eligible buyers are typically U.S. Government organizations or U.S. Government contractors. Products approved for marketing and sale through the AVP are placed on the Endorsed Cryptographic Products List (ECPL). [CNSSI] (see also authorized)

authorizing official

Official with the authority to formally assume responsibility for operating an information system at an acceptable level of risk to agency operations (including mission, functions, image, or reputation), agency assets, or individuals. [800-60] (see also risk)

auto-manual system (AMS)

(see also system)

automated clearing house (ACH)

Computer-based clearing and settlement facility for interchange of electronic debits and credits among financial institutions. [FFIEC]

automated data processing (ADP)

(see automated information system)

automated data processing security

(see Automated Information System security)

automated data processing system

An assembly of computer hardware, firmware, and software configured for the purpose of classifying, sorting, calculating, computing, summa, transmitting and receiving, storing, and retrieving data, with a minimum of human intervention. [AJP][TCSEC] (see also software, automated information system, system)

automated information system (AIS)

(1) Any equipment or interconnected systems or subsystems of equipment that are used in the automatic acquisition, storage, manipulation, management, movement, control, display, switching, interchange, transmission, or reception of data and include computer software, firmware, and hardware. (2) An assembly of computer hardware, software, and/or Automated Information System (AIS) firmware configured to collect, create, communicate, compute, disseminate, process, store, and/or control data or information. Note: Included are computers, word processing systems, networks or other electronic information handling systems, and associated equipment. [AJP] (I) An organized assembly of resources and procedures-- i.e., computing and communications equipment and services, with their supporting facilities and personnel--that collect, record, process, store, transport, retrieve, or display information to accomplish a specified set of functions. [RFC2828] An assembly of computer hardware, software and/or firmware configured to collect, create, communicate, compute, disseminate, process, store, and/or control data or information. [NCSC/TG004] Any equipment or interconnected systems or subsystems of equipment that is used in the automatic acquisition, storage, manipulation, management, movement, control, display, switching, interchange, transmission or reception of data and includes computer software, firmware, and hardware. Note: Included are computers, word processing systems, networks, or other electronic information handling systems, and associated equipment. [FCv1] The entire infrastructure, organization, personnel, and components for the collection, processing, storage, transmission, display, dissemination, and disposition of information. [IATF] (see also American National Standards Institute, American Standard Code for Information Interchange, PCMCIA, application system, backus-naur form, computer, data synchronization, digital document, direct access storage device, extended industry standard architecture, fiber distributed data interface, frame relay, industry standard architecture, input/output, language, laptop computer, large scale integration, legacy data, logged in, network protocol stack, nibble, object code, object-oriented programming, personal computer, personal computer memory card international association, personal digital assistant, read-only memory, remote procedure call, reusability, rotational delay, safety-critical software, screen scraping, software, standard generalized markup language, structured query language, system resources, workflow, workload, accountability, accreditation, assurance, audit trail, certification, declassification of AIS storage media, designated approving authority, modes of operation, security, system) (includes Automated Information System security, CPU time, International organization for standardization, access mode, automated data processing system, bastion host, batch mode, batch processing, big-endian, bit, byte, central processing unit, centralized data processing, client server, computer abuse, data, data administration, data aggregation, data architecture, data contamination, data control language, data definition language, data dictionary, data flow diagram, data input, data management, data manipulation language, data processing, data reengineering, data storage, data structure, data validation, database administration, debugging, direct memory access, distributed data processing, distributed processing, fail soft, front-end processor, host, host based, host to front-end protocol, host-based firewall, information architecture, information center, information engineering, information environment, information flow, information operations, information ratio, information technology, information technology system, interface control unit, life cycle management, logical system definition, master file, memory scavenging, million instruction per second, multihost based auditing, networks, random access memory, remote job entry, remote terminal emulation, screened host firewall, workstation)

Automated Information System security

Measures and controls that protect an AIS against denial of service and unauthorized (accidental or intentional) disclosure, modification, or destruction of AISs and data. AIS security includes consideration of all hardware and/or software functions, characteristics, and/or features; operational procedures, accountability procedures, and access controls at the central computer facility, remote computer, and terminal facilities; management constraints; physical structures and devices; and personnel and communication controls needed to provide an acceptable level of risk for the AIS and for the data and information contained in the AIS. It includes the totality of security safeguards needed to provide an acceptable protection level for an AIS and for data handled by an IT product. [AJP][NCSC/TG004] (see also computer security, authorized, denial of service, security software, software, automated information system, risk management, subcommittee on Automated Information System security, system) (includes IT Security Evaluation Criteria, IT Security Evaluation Methodology, IT security, IT security certification, access control, communications security, emissions security, physical security, security safeguards)

automated key distribution

The distribution of cryptographic keys, usually in encrypted form, using electronic means, such as a computer network (e.g. down-line key loading, the automated key distribution protocols of ANSI X9.17). [FIPS140] The distribution of cryptographic keys, usually in encrypted form, using electronic means, such as a computer network. [SRV] (see also networks, key, key management)

automated key management center (AKMC)

(see also key, system)

automated logon sequences

A computer program or script that performs user connection to IT without user intervention after initiation [NASA] (see also user, logon)

automated office support systems (AOSS)

(see also system)

automated security incident measurement (ASIM)

Monitors network traffic and collects information on targeted unit networks by detecting unauthorized network activity. [NSAINT] (see also authorized, networks, incident, security software)

automated security monitoring

All security features needed to provide an acceptable level of protection for hardware, software, and classified, sensitive, unclassified or critical data, material, or processes in the system. [NSAINT] The use of automated procedures to ensure that security controls are not circumvented. [AJP][NCSC/TG004][SRV] Use of automated procedures to ensure security controls are not circumvented or the use of these tools to track actions taken by subjects suspected of misusing the IS. [CNSSI] (see also classified, software, risk management, security software)

automatic digital network (AUTODIN)

(see also networks)

automatic key distribution center (AKDC)

(see also key, rekey)

automatic log-on

A feature offered by some aggregation services allowing customers to log on by clicking on a hyperlink and thereby causing the usernames and passwords stored at the aggregator to be used to log onto other websites. [FFIEC]

automatic remote rekeying (AK)

Procedure to rekey a distant crypto-equipment electronically without specific actions by the receiving terminal operator. [CNSSI] (see also key, rekey)

autonomous message switch (AMS)

auxiliary power unit (APU)

auxiliary vector (AV)

availability

Ensuring timely and reliable access to and use of information. [800-60] (1) The ability to access a specific resource within a specific time frame as defined within the IT product specification. (2) The ability to use or access objects and resources as required. The property relates to the concern that information objects and other system resources are accessible when needed and without undue delay. (3) The prevention of the unauthorized withholding of information resources. [AJP] (I) The property of a system or a system resource being accessible and usable upon demand by an authorized system entity, according to performance specifications for the system; i.e., a system is available if it provides services according to the system design whenever users request them. (O) 'The property of being accessible and usable upon demand by an authorized entity.' [RFC2828] 1) Timely, reliable access to data and information services for authorized users. 2) The ability to have access to MEI Resource Elements when required by the mission and core supporting process(es), both now and in the future. It also concerns the safeguarding of those resources and associated capabilities. [CIAO] Ability to access a specific resource within a specific time frame as defined within the IT product specification. [FCv1] Assurance that information, services, and IT system resources are accessible to authorized users and/or system-related processes on a timely and reliable basis and are protected from denial of service. [800-37] Assuring information and communications services will be ready for use when expected. [NSAINT][OVT] Computer hardware and software system working efficiently and the system is able to recover quickly and completely if a disaster occurs. The principle that ensures that computer systems and data are working and available to users. Denial of Service is an attack on availability. [AFSEC] The ability to use or access objects and resources as required. The property relates to the concern that information objects and other system resources are accessible when needed and without undue delay. [JTC1/SC27] The prevention of the unauthorized withholding of information resources. [ITSEC][NIAP] The probability that a given resource will be usable during a given time period. [SRV] The property of being accessible and usable upon demand by an authorized entity. [IATF][SC27] The property that a given resource will be usable during a given time period. [SRV] The security objective that generates the requirement for protection against

Intentional or accidental attempts to (1) perform unauthorized deletion of data or (2) otherwise cause a denial of service or data
Unauthorized use of system resources.

[800-30] The security objective that generates the requirement for protection against intentional or accidental attempts to (1) perform unauthorized deletion of data or (2) otherwise cause a denial of service or data. [800-33] The state wherein information and systems are in the place needed by the user, at the proper time, and in the form that the user requests [NASA] Timely, reliable access to data and information services for authorized users. [CNSSI] (see also Common Criteria for Information Technology Security, IT security, IT security controls, IT security incident, National Computer Security Center, access control, application server attack, assurance, attack, authorized, computer abuse, computer emergency response team, computer related controls, computer security, critical, defense-in-depth, defense-wide information assurance program, denial of service, entry-level certification, failure, fault tolerant, hardening, high-impact system, impact, incident, information assurance, information security, intrusion, levels of concern, line managers, low-impact system, maintainability, malware, mid-level certification, minimum essential infrastructure, mirroring, moderate-impact system, post-accreditation phase, potential impact, redundant control server, reliability, remediation, requirements for procedures and standards, resource starvation, retro-virus, security category, security controls, security event, security policy, security requirements, simple network management protocol, software, token management, top-level certification, trustworthy system, turnaround time, uniform resource name, user, vaulting, vulnerability, risk management, security, security goals) (includes application data backup/recovery, availability of data, availability service, business continuity plan, business impact analysis, contingency planning, continuity of operations, environmentally controlled area, fire barrier, fire suppression system, object, privacy, authentication, integrity, non-repudiation, recovery, system retention/backup, token backup)

availability of data

The state when data are in the place needed by the user, at the time the user needs them, and in the form needed by the user. [OVT] (see also user, availability)

availability service

(I) A security service that protects a system to ensure its availability. (C) This service addresses the security concerns raised by denial-of-service attacks. It depends on proper management and control of system resources, and thus depends on access control service and other security services. [RFC2828] (see also access control, availability)

back up vs. backup

(I) Verb 'back up': To store data for the purpose of creating a backup copy. (I) Noun/adjective 'backup': (1.) A reserve copy of data that is stored separately from the original, for use if the original becomes lost or damaged. (2.) Alternate means to permit performance of system functions despite a disaster to system resources. [RFC2828] (see also backup, contingency plan)

backdoor

(I) A hardware or software mechanism that (a) provides access to a system and its resources by other than the usual procedure, (b) was deliberately left in place by the system's designers or maintainers, and (c) usually is not publicly known. (C) For example, a way to access a computer other than through a normal login. Such access paths do not necessarily have malicious intent; e.g. operating systems sometimes are shipped by the manufacturer with privileged accounts intended for use by field service technicians or the vendor's maintenance programmers. [RFC2828] A hole in the security of a computer system deliberately left in place by designers or maintainers. Synonymous with trap door; A hidden software or hardware mechanism used to circumvent security controls. A breach created intentionally for the purpose of collecting, altering or destroying data. [AFSEC] A hole in the security of a computer system deliberately left in place by designers or maintainers. Synonymous with trap door; a hidden software or hardware mechanism used to circumvent security controls. [NSAINT] A malicious program that listens for commands on a certain Transmission Control Protoco (TCP) or User Datagram Protocol (UDP) port. [800-83] An undocumented way of gaining access to a computer system. A backdoor is a potential security risk. [800-82] Hidden software or hardware mechanism used to circumvent security controls. Synonymous with trap door. [CNSSI] Synonymous with trapdoor. [SRV] a hidden means of reentering a computer that a hacker or cracker can use if the original entry point has been detected. [FJC] (see also trap door, access control, login, privileged, risk, security, software, malicious code)

backup

Copy of files and applications made to avoid loss of data and facilitate recovery in the event of a system crash. [CIAO] Copy of files and programs made to facilitate recovery, if necessary. [CNSSI] (see also archive, archiving, contingency plan, contingency planning, fallback procedures, key recovery, mirroring, operations manager, redundancy, redundant control server, remediation, retro-virus, security event, token management, vaulting, recovery) (includes application data backup/recovery, back up vs. backup, backup generations, backup operations, backup plan, backup procedures, card backup, system retention/backup, token backup)

backup generations

A methodology for creating and storing backup files whereby the youngest (or most recent file) is referred to as the 'son,' the prior file is called the 'father,' and the file two generations older is the 'grandfather.' This backup methodology is frequently used to refer to master files for financial applications. [FFIEC] (see also backup, contingency plan)

backup operations

Methods for accomplishing essential business tasks subsequent to disruption of a computer facility and for continuing operations until the facility is sufficiently restored. [SRV] (see also business process, backup, contingency plan)

backup plan

Synonymous with contingency plan. [SRV] (see also backup, contingency plan)

backup procedures

The provisions made for the recovery of data files and program libraries and for restart or replacement of computer equipment after the occurrence of a system failure or a disaster. [SRV] (see also failure, backup, recovery)

backus-naur form

(also Backus normal form), a metalanguage used to formally describe the syntax of another language. A metalanguage used to formally describe the syntax of a language. [OVT] (see also automated information system)

baggage

(D) ISDs SHOULD NOT use this term to describe a data element except when stated as 'SET(trademark) baggage' with the following meaning: (O) SET usage: An 'opaque encrypted tuple, that is included in a SET message but appended as external data to the PKCS encapsulated data. This avoids superencryption of the previously encrypted tuple, but guarantees linkage with the PKCS portion of the message.' [RFC2828] (see also encryption, Secure Electronic Transaction)

bandwidth

(1) A characteristic of a communication channel that is the amount of information that can be passed through it in a given amount of time, usually expressed in bits per second. (2) Rate at which information is transmitted through a channel. Note: Bandwidth was originally a term used in analog communication, measured in hertz, and related to the information rate by the 'sampling theorem' (generally attributed to H. Nyquist, although the theorem was in fact known before Nyquist used it in communication theory). Nyquist's sampling theorem says that the information rate in bits (samples) per second is at most twice the bandwidth in hertz of an analog signal created from a square wave. In a covert-channel context, 'bandwidth' is given in bits per second rather than hertz and is commonly used, in a nonstandard use of terminology, as a synonym for information rate. [AJP] (I) Commonly used to mean the capacity of a communication channel to pass data through the channel in a given amount of time. Usually expressed in bits per second. [RFC2828] A characteristic of a communication channel that is the amount of information that can be passed through it in a given amount of time, usually expressed in bits per second. [TCSEC] In communications, the difference between the highest and lowest frequencies in a given range. In computer networks, greater bandwidth indicates faster data-transfer capabilities (i.e., the rate at which information can be transmitted in bits/second.) [SRV] Rate at which information is transmitted through a channel. Note: Bandwidth is originally a term used in analog communication, measured in Hertz, and related to information rate by the 'sampling theorem' (generally attributed to H. Nyquist although the theorem was in fact known before Nyquist used it in communication theory). Nyquist's sampling theorem says that the information rate in bits (samples) per second is at most twice the bandwidth in Hertz of an analog signal created from a square wave. In a covert-channel context 'bandwidth' is given in bits/ second rather than Hertz and is commonly used, in an abuse of terminology, as a synonym for information rate. [FCv1] (see also channel capacity, communications, networks)

bank identification number (BIN)

(N) The digits of a credit card number that identify the issuing bank. (O) SET usage: The first six digits of a primary account number. [RFC2828] (see also identify, Secure Electronic Transaction, identification)

banking and finance

A critical infrastructure characterized by entities, such as retail and commercial organizations, investment institutions, exchange boards, trading houses, and reserve systems, and associated operational organizations. Also includes government operations, and support activities, that are involved in all manner of monetary transactions, including its storage for saving purposes, its investment for income purposes, its exchange for payment purposes, and its disbursement in the form of loans and other financial instruments. [CIAO] (see also critical infrastructures)

banner

Display on an IS that sets parameters for system or data use. [CNSSI]

banner grabbing

The process of capturing banner information, such as application type and version, that is transmitted by a remote port when a connection is initiated. [800-115]

bar code

The set of vertical bars of irregular widths representing coded information placed on consumer products and other items (such as identification cards) that may require this type of identification. [GSA]

barograph

A recording barometer. [SRV]

barometer

An instrument for measuring atmospheric pressure, used in weather forecasting and in determining elevation. It gives notice of fluctuations. It is an indicator of atmospheric pressure. [SRV]

baseline

A specification or product that has been formally reviewed and agreed upon, that thereafter serves as the basis for further development, and that can be changed only through formal change control procedures. [IEEE610] A version of software used as a starting point for later versions. [SRV] (see also as is process model, interface control document, release, revision, security target, site accreditation, software, software library, software system test and evaluation process, version, security) (includes baseline architecture, baseline controls, baseline management, baselining, security requirements baseline)

baseline architecture

The initial architecture that is or can be used as a starting point for subsequent architectures, or to measure progress. [SRV] (see also baseline)

baseline controls

A minimum set of safeguards established for a system or organization. [SC27] (see also security controls, baseline)

baseline management

In configuration management, the application of technical and administrative direction to designate the documents and changes to those documents that formally identify and establish baselines at specific times during the life cycle of a configuration item. [IEEE610] (see also identify, baseline, configuration management)

baselining

Monitoring resources to determine typical utilization patterns so that significant deviations can be detected. [800-61] Obtaining data on the current process that provide the metrics against which to compare improvements and to use in benchmarking. [SRV] (see also baseline)

basic component

A component that is identifiable at the lowest hierarchical level of a specification produced during design. [AJP][ITSEC] (see also component)

Basic Encoding Rules (BER)

(I) A standard for representing ASN.1 data types as strings of octets. [RFC2828] (see also Abstract Syntax Notation One) (includes Distinguished Encoding Rules)

bastion host

(I) A strongly protected computer that is in a network protected by a firewall (or is part of a firewall) and is the only host (or one of only a few hosts) in the network that can be directly accessed from networks on the other side of the firewall. (C) Filtering routers in a firewall typically restrict traffic from the outside network to reaching just one host, the bastion host, which usually is part of the firewall. Since only this one host can be directly attacked, only this one host needs to be very strongly protected, so security can be maintained more easily and less expensively. However, to allow legitimate internal and external users to access application resources through the firewall, higher layer protocols and services need to be relayed and forwarded by the bastion host. Some services (e.g. DNS and SMTP) have forwarding built in; other services (e.g. TELNET and FTP) require a proxy server on the bastion host. [RFC2828] A host system that is a strong point in the network's security perimeter. Bastion hosts should be configured to be particularly resistant to attack. In a host-based firewall, the bastion host is the platform on which the firewall software is run. Bastion hosts are also referred to as gateway hosts. [SRV] A system that has been hardened to resist attack, and that is installed on a network in such a way that it is expected to potentially come under attack. Often are components of firewalls. [AFSEC] (see also access control, attack, networks, software, automated information system, firewall)

batch mode

Grouping all files related to a specific job and transmitting them as a unit. Also referred to as deferred-time or off-line processing. [SRV] (see also automated information system)

batch process

A process that leads to the production of finite quantities of material by subjecting quantities of input materials to an ordered set of processing activities over a finite time using one or more pieces of equipment. [800-82] (see also subject)

batch processing

Data or transactions are accumulated over a period of time and then processed in a single run. [SRV] (see also automated information system)

bebugging

Planting errors in computer programs to ensure that all known errors are detected. It determines whether a set of test cases is adequate. [SRV] (see also error seeding, assurance, test)

Bell-LaPadula model

(N) A formal, mathematical, state-transition model of security policy for multilevel-secure computer systems. (C) The model separates computer system elements into a set of subjects and a set of objects. To determine whether or not a subject is authorized for a particular access mode on an object, the clearance of the subject is compared to the classification of the object. The model defines the notion of a 'secure state', in which the only permitted access modes of subjects to objects are in accordance with a specified security policy. It is proven that each state transition preserves security by moving from secure state to secure state, thereby proving that the system is secure. (C) In this model, a multilevel-secure system satisfies several rules, including the following:

'Confinement property' (also called '*-property', pronounced 'star property'): A subject has write access to an object only if classification of the object dominates the clearance of the subject.
'Simple security property': A subject has read access to an object only if the clearance of the subject dominates the classification of the object.
'Tranquility property': The classification of an object does not change while the object is being processed by the system.

[RFC2828] An information-flow security model couched in terms of subjects and objects and based on the concept that information shall not flow to an object of lesser or noncomparable classification. [SRV] (see Bell-LaPadula security model) (see also access control, authorized, classified)

Bell-LaPadula security model

(1) A formal state-transition model of a computer security policy that describes a set of access control rules. In this formal model, the entities in a system are divided into abstract sets of subjects and objects. The notion of a secure state is defined, and it is proven that each state transition preserves security by moving from secure state to secure state, thereby inductively proving that the system is secure. A system state is defined to be 'secure' if the only permitted access modes of subjects to objects are in accordance with a specific security policy. To determine whether a specific access mode is allowed, the clearance of a subject is compared with the classification of the object, and a determination is made as to whether the subject is authorized for the specific access mode. The clearance/classifications scheme is expressed in terms of a lattice. (2) A formal state-transition model of a technical security policy for an AIS that presents: (a) access constraints, (b) allowed state transitions (called 'rules of operation'), and (c) a proof that the allowed state transitions guarantee satisfaction of the constraints. [AJP] A formal state transition model of a computer security policy that describes a set of access control rules. In this formal model, the entities in a system are divided into abstract sets of subjects and objects. The notion of a secure state is defined and it is proven that each state transition preserves security by moving from secure state to secure state; thus, inductively proving that the system is secure. A system state is defined to be 'secure' if the only permitted access modes of subjects to objects are in accordance with a specific security policy. to determine whether or not a specific access mode is allowed, the clearance of a subject is compared to the classification of the object and a determination is made as to whether the subject is authorized for the specific access mode. The clearance/classification scheme is expressed in terms of a lattice. [TCSEC] A formal state transition model of a computer security policy that describes a set of access control rules. In this formal model, the entities in a system are divided into abstract sets of subjects and objects. The notion of a secure state is defined and it is proven that each state transition preserves security by moving from secure state to secure state; thus, inductively proving that the system is secure. A system state is defined to be 'secure' if the only permitted access modes of subjects to objects are in accordance with a specific security policy. to determine whether or not a specific access mode is allowed, the clearance of a subject is compared to the classification of the object and a determination is made as to whether the subject is authorized for the specific access mode. The clearance/classifications scheme is expressed in terms of a lattice. For further information see Bell, D. Elliott and LaPadula, Leonard J., Secure Computer Systems: Unified Exposition and MULTICS Interpretation, MTR 2997, The MITRE Corporation, April 1974. (AD/A 020 445). [TNI] A formal state transition model of a computer security policy that describes a set of access control rules. In this formal model, the entities in a system are divided into abstract sets of subjects and objects. The notion of a secure state is defined, and it is proven that each state transition preserves security by moving from secure state to secure state, thereby inductively proving that the system is secure. A system state is defined to be 'secure' if the only permitted access modes of subjects to objects are in accordance with a specific security policy. to determine whether or not a specific access mode is allowed, the clearance of a subject is compared to the classification of the object, and a determination is made as to whether the subject is authorized for the specific access mode. [NCSC/TG004] Any formal state-transition model of a technical security policy for an AIS that presents (a) Access Constraints (including initial-state constraints and variants or the simple security), (b) allowed state transitions (called 'rules of operation'), and (c) a proof that the allowed state transitions guarantee satisfaction of the constraints. [FCv1] Formal-state transition model of a computer security policy that describes a formal set of access controls based on information sensitivity and subject authorizations. [NSAINT] (see also access control, authorization, authorized, classification level, classified, computer security, confinement property, formal security policy model, model, security model) (includes *-property, lattice, lattice model, object, simple security condition, simple security property, subject, tranquility, trusted subject)

benchmark

(1) A test of the performance and capabilities of newly developed software using actual or simulated workloads. (2) A method to improve business processes. A measurement or standard that serves as a point of reference by which process performance is measured. User constructed tests that verify the performance of a proposed computer system by measuring its ability to execute a group of user programs representative of projected workload within certain predetermined user time requirements. [SRV] A standard against which measurements or comparisons can be made. [IEEE610] (see also business process, evaluation, software, test)

benchmarking

A structured approach for identifying the best practices from industry and government, and comparing and adapting them to the organization's operations. Such as approach is aimed at identifying more efficient and effective processes for achieving intended results and at suggesting ambitious goals for productivity, product/service quality, and process improvement. [SRV] (see also identify, quality)

benign

Condition of cryptographic data that cannot be compromised by human access. [CNSSI] (see also access control, compromise, countermeasure, cryptography)

benign environment

A nonhostile environment that may be protected from external hostile elements by physical, personnel, and procedural security countermeasures. [AFSEC][AJP][NCSC/TG004] Nonhostile environment that may be protected from external hostile elements by physical, personnel, and procedural security countermeasures. [CNSSI] (see also countermeasure, security)

best practices

The processes, practices, and systems identified in public and private organizations that performed exceptionally well and are widely recognized as improving an organization's performance and efficiency in specific areas. Successfully identifying and applying best practices can reduce business expenses and improve organizational efficiency. Best practices can be applied to all functions within an organization. Business practices that have been shown to improve an organization's IT function, as well as other business functions. [SRV] (see also business process, identify, recommended practices, risk management)

between-the-lines-entry

Access that an unauthorized user gets, typically by tapping the terminal that is inactive at the time, of a legitimate user. [AFSEC] Access, obtained through the use of active wiretapping by an unauthorized user, to a momentarily inactive terminal of a legitimate user assigned to a communications channel. [SRV] Unauthorized access obtained by tapping the temporarily inactive terminal of a legitimate user. [AJP][NCSC/TG004] (see also access control, authorized, unauthorized access, attack) (includes piggyback)

beyond A1

(O) (1.) Formally, a level of security assurance that is beyond the highest level of criteria specified by the TCSEC. (2.) Informally, a level of trust so high that it cannot be provided or verified by currently available assurance methods, and particularly not by currently available formal methods. [RFC2828] A level of trust defined by the Trusted Computer System Evaluation Criteria (TCSEC) that is beyond the state-of-the-art technology available at the time the criteria were developed. It includes all the A1-level features plus additional ones not required at the A1 level. [NCSC/TG004] A level of trust defined by the U.S. DoD (Department of Defense) Trusted Computer System Evaluation Criteria (TCSEC) that is beyond the state-of-the-art technology available at the time the criteria were developed. It includes all the A1-level features plus additional ones not required at the A1 level. [AJP] (see also evaluation, security, trusted computer system)

bias

The existence of a factor that causes an estimate made on the basis of a sample to differ systematically from the population parameter being estimated. Bias may originate from poor sample design, deficiencies in carrying out the sampling process, or an inherent characteristic of the measuring or estimating technique used. [SRV]

Biba Integrity model

A formal security model for the integrity of subjects and objects in a system. [NSAINT] (see also Biba model, formal security policy model, integrity, model)

Biba model

An integrity model in which no subject may depend on a less trusted object, including another subject. [SRV] (see also Biba Integrity model, integrity, trust, model)

big-endian

A method of storage of multi-byte numbers with the most significant bytes at the lowest memory addresses. [SC27] A method of storage of multi-byte numbers with the most significant bytes at the lowest memory addresses. [ISO/IEC 10118-1: 2000] [SC27] (see also automated information system)

bilateral trust

when business arrangements are based on formal and informal agreements that involve only two companies and that trust is limited to those companies or a subset of their employees. [misc] (see also business process, public-key infrastructure, trust)

bill payment

An e-banking application whereby customers direct the financial institution to transfer funds to the account of another person or business. Payment is typically made by ACH credit or by the institution (or bill payment servicer) sending a paper check on the customer's behalf. [FFIEC] (see also internet)

bill presentment

An e-banking service whereby a business submits an electronic bill or invoice directly to the customer's financial institution. The customer can view the bill/invoice on-line and, if desired, pay the bill through an electronic payment. [FFIEC] (see also internet)

bind

(I) To inseparably associate by applying some mechanism, such as when a CA uses a digital signature to bind together a subject and public key in a public-key certificate. [RFC2828] (see also certificate, digital signature, key, public-key infrastructure)

binding

An acknowledgment by a trusted third party that associates an entity's identity with its public key. This may take place through: (1) a certification authority's generation of a public key certificate, (2) a security officer's verification of an entity's credentials and placement of the entity's public key and identifier in a secure database, or (3) an analogous method. Denotes the association of a name (such as a variable declaration) with a class. [SRV] An affirmation by a Certificate Authority/Attribute Authority (or its acting Registration Authority) of the relationship between a named entity and its public key or biometric template. [GSA] Process of associating a specific communications terminal with a specific cryptographic key or associating two related elements of information. [CNSSI] (see also cryptography, identity, key, security, trust)

binding of functionality

An aspect of the assessment of the effectiveness of a Target of Evaluation, namely, the ability of its security enforcing functions and mechanisms to work together in a way that is mutually supportive and provides an integrated and effective whole. [ITSEC] (see also assessment, security, target of evaluation)

binding of security functionality

The ability of security enforcing functions and mechanisms to work together in a way that is mutually supportive and provides an integrated and effective whole. [AJP][JTC1/SC27] (see also security)

biometric authentication

(I) A method of generating authentication information for a person by digitizing measurements of a physical characteristic, such as a fingerprint, a hand shape, a retina pattern, a speech pattern (voiceprint), or handwriting. [RFC2828] (see also 3-factor authentication, authentication, biometrics) (includes thumbprint)

biometric information

The stored electronic information pertaining to a biometric. This information can be in terms of raw or compressed pixels or in terms of some characteristic (e.g., patterns). [GSA] (see also biometrics)

biometric measurement

Any unique biological feature of an individual; that is, something he/she has, such as a fingerprint, that can be used for personal authentication of an IT user's claim of identity [NASA] (see also authentication, identity, user, biometrics)

biometric system

An automated system capable of the following:

Capturing a biometric sample from an end user
Extracting biometric data from that sample
Comparing the extracted biometric data with data contained in one or more references
Deciding how well they match
Indicating whether or not an identification or verification of identity has been achieved.

[GSA] (see also identity, user, biometrics)

biometric template

A digital record of an individual's biometric features. Typically, a 'livescan' of an individual's biometric attributes is translated through a specific algorithm into a digital record that can be stored in a database or on an integrated circuit chip. [GAO06178] (see also biometrics)

biometrics

A measurable, physical characteristic or personal behavioral trait used to recognize the identity, or verify the claimed identity, of an Applicant. Facial images, fingerprints, and iriscan samples are all examples of biometrics. [GSA] Automated methods of authenticating or verifying an individual based on a physical or behavioral characteristic. [CNSSI][IATF] Automated recognition of individuals based on their behavioral and biological characteristics. In this document, biometrics may be used to unlock authentication tokens and prevent repudiation of registration. [800-63] Measures of an individual's unique physical characteristics or the unique ways that an individual performs an activity. Physical biometrics include fingerprints, hand geometry, facial patterns, and iris and retinal scans. Behavioral biometrics include voice patterns, written signatures, and keyboard typing techniques. [GAO06178] The method of verifying a person's identify by analyzing a unique physical attribute of the individual (e.g., fingerprint, retinal scanning). [FFIEC] (see also authentication, identify, identity, security) (includes biometric authentication, biometric information, biometric measurement, biometric system, biometric template, capture, comparisons, false acceptance rate, match, minutiae)

bit

(I) The smallest unit of information storage; a contraction of the term 'binary digit'; one of two symbols--'0' (zero) and '1' (one)
--that are used to represent binary numbers. [RFC2828] A binary digit: 0 or 1. [800-63] Short for binary digit - 0 or 1. Keys are strings of bits. [AJP] (see also automated information system)

bit error rate

Ratio between the number of bits incorrectly received and the total number of bits transmitted in a telecommunications system. [CNSSI] (see also communications)

bit forwarding rate

The number of bits per second of allowed traffic a DUT/SUT can be observed to transmit to the correct destination interface(s) in response to a specified offered load. This definition differs substantially from section of RFC 1242 and section 3.6.1 of RFC 2285. Unlike both RFCs 1242 and 2285, this definition introduces the notion of different classes of traffic: allowed, illegal, and rejected. For benchmarking purposes, it is assumed that bit forwarding rate measurements include only allowed traffic. Unlike RFC 1242, there is no reference to lost or retransmitted data. Forwarding rate is assumed to be a goodput measurement, in that only data successfully forwarded to the destination interface is measured. Bit forwarding rate must be measured in relation to the offered load. Bit forwarding rate may be measured with differed load levels, traffic orientation, and traffic distribution. Unlike RFC 2285, this measurement counts bits per second rather than frames per second. Testers interested in frame (or frame-like) measurements should use units of transfer. [RFC2647] (see also allowed traffic, goodput, illegal traffic, rejected traffic, test, unit of transfer)

BLACK

(I) Designation for information system equipment or facilities that handle (and for data that contains) only ciphertext (or, depending on the context, only unclassified information), and for such data itself. This term derives from U.S. Government COMSEC terminology. [RFC2828] Designation applied to information systems, and to associated areas, circuits, components, and equipment, in which national security information is encrypted or is not processed. [CNSSI] (see also cipher, classified, communications security, cryptography, security)

black-box testing

A method of verifying that software functions perform correctly without examining the internal program logic. [SRV] (see also analysis, functional test case design, functional testing, software, stress testing, security testing, test)

blacklist

A list of discrete entities, such as hosts or applications, that have been previously determined to be associated with malicious activity. [800-94] (see also threat)

blended attack

An instance of malware that uses multiple infection or transmission methods. [800-83] Malicious code that uses multiple methods to spread. [800-61] (see also attack)

blinding

Generating network traffic that is likely to trigger many alerts in a short period of time, to conceal alerts triggered by a “real” attack performed simultaneously. [800-94] (see also attack)

block

A bit-string of length L₁, i.e., the length of the first input to the round-function. [SC27] A bit-string of length L₁, i.e., the length of the first input to the round-function. [ISO/IEC FDIS 9797-2 (09/2000), ISO/IEC CD 10118-3 (11/2001)] A string of bits of length L_f, which shall be an integer multiple of 16. [ISO/IEC 10118-4: 1998] A bit-string of length n. [ISO/IEC 9797-1: 1999] String of bits of defined length. [SC27] A bit-string of length n. [SC27] A string of bits of length L_f, which shall be an integer multiple of 16. [SC27] String of bits of defined length. [SC27]

block chaining

The encipherment of information such that each block of ciphertext is cryptographically dependent upon the preceding ciphertext block. [SC27] The encipherment of information such that each block of ciphertext is cryptographically dependent upon the preceding ciphertext block. [ISO 8372: 1987] The encipherment of information such that each block of ciphertext is cryptographically dependent upon the preceding ciphertext block. [SC27] (see also cipher block chaining, cipher)

block cipher

(I) An encryption algorithm that breaks plaintext into fixed-size segments and uses the same key to transform each plaintext segment into a fixed-size segment of ciphertext. (C) For example, Blowfish, DEA, IDEA, RC2, and SKIPJACK. However, block cipher can be adapted to have a different external interface, such as that of a stream cipher, by using a mode of operation to 'package' the basic algorithm. [RFC2828] Symmetric encryption algorithm with the property that the encryption process operates on a block of plaintext, i.e. a string of bits of a specified length, to yield a ciphertext block. [SC27] (see also encryption, key, cipher)

block cipher key

A key that controls the operation of a block cipher. [SC27] (see also cipher, key)

Blowfish

(N) A symmetric block cipher with variable-length key (32 to 448 bits) designed in 1993 by Bruce Schneier as an unpatented, license-free, royalty-free replacement for DES or IDEA. [RFC2828] (see also cipher, key, symmetric cryptography)

blue box devices

Created by crackers and phone hackers ('phreakers') to break into the telephone system to make calls that bypass billing procedures. [AFSEC] (see also threat)

blue team

A test team that performs security testing with the knowledge and consent of the organization's IT staff. [800-115] (see also security, security testing)

bomb

A general synonym for crash, normally of software or operating system failures. [AFSEC][NSAINT] (see also failure, software, threat)

boot sector virus

A virus that infects the master boot record (MBR) of a hard drive or the boot sector of removable media, such as floppy diskettes. [800-83] A virus that plants itself in a system's boot sector and infects the master boot record. [800-61] (see also virus)

bounce

An electronic mail message that is undeliverable and returns an error to the sender. [AFSEC] (see also email)

boundary

Software, hardware, or physical barrier that limits access to a system or part of a system. [CNSSI] (see also access control)

boundary host

A system that connects two networks and controls the flow of information passing between them [NASA] (see also access control)

boundary value

A data value that corresponds to a minimum or maximum input, internal, or output value specified for a system or component. An input value or output value that is on the boundary between equivalence classes, or an incremental distance either side of the boundary. [OVT] (see also stress testing)

boundary value analysis

(NBS) A selection technique in which test data are chosen to lie along 'boundaries' of the input domain [or output range] classes, data structures, procedure parameters, etc. Choices often include maximum, minimum, and trivial values or parameters. This technique is often called stress testing. A test case design technique for a component in which test cases are designed which include representatives of boundary values. [OVT] (see also security testing, test, analysis)

boundary value coverage

The percentage of boundary values of the component's equivalence classes which have been exercised by a test case suite. [OVT] (see also test)

boundary value testing

A testing technique using input values at, just below, and just above, the defined limits of an input domain; and with input values causing outputs to be at, just below, and just above, the defined limits of an output domain. [OVT] (see also security testing, test)

branch coverage

Metric of the number of branches executed under test; '100% branch coverage' means that every branch in a program has been executed at least once under some test (also link coverage). [OVT] (see also test)

brand

(I) A distinctive mark or name that identifies a product or business entity. (O) SET usage: The name of a payment card. Financial institutions and other companies have founded payment card brands, protect and advertise the brands, establish and enforce rules for use and acceptance of their payment cards, and provide networks to interconnect the financial institutions. These brands combine the roles of issuer and acquirer in interactions with cardholders and merchants. [RFC2828] (see also networks, Secure Electronic Transaction)

brand certification authority (BCA)

(O) SET usage: A CA owned by a payment card brand, such as MasterCard, Visa, or American Express. [RFC2828] (see also certification, Secure Electronic Transaction, public-key infrastructure)

brand CRL identifier (BCI)

(O) SET usage: A digitally signed list, issued by a BCA, of the names of CAs for which CRLs need to be processed when verifying signatures in SET messages. [RFC2828] (see also digital signature, Secure Electronic Transaction, public-key infrastructure)

breach

The successful defeat of security controls which could result in a penetration of the system. A violation of controls of a particular information system such that information assets or system components are unduly exposed. [AFSEC][NSAINT][OVT] (see also access control, penetration, security, threat)

break

(I) Cryptographic usage: To successfully perform cryptanalysis and thus succeed in decrypting data or performing some other cryptographic function, without initially having knowledge of the key that the function requires. (This term applies to encrypted data or, more generally, to a cryptographic algorithm or cryptographic system.)$ bridge (I) A computer that is a gateway between two networks (usually two LANs) at OSI layer 2. [RFC2828] (see also analysis, cryptography, encryption, key, networks)

brevity list

List containing words and phrases used to shorten messages. [CNSSI]

bridge

A device that connects similar or dissimilar LANs together to form an extended LAN. [SRV] A device that connects two networks or network segments; similar to a router but protocol-independent [CIAO] (see also router)

British Standard 7799 (BS7799)

(N) Part 1 is a standard code of practice and provides guidance on how to secure an information system. Part 2 specifies the management framework, objectives, and control requirements for information security management systems. The certification scheme works like ISO 9000. It is in use in the UK, the Netherlands, Australia, and New Zealand and might be proposed as an ISO standard or adapted to be part of the Common Criteria. [RFC2828] (see also certification, security)

broadband network

A type of local area network on which transmissions travel as radio-frequency signals over separate inbound and outbound channels. Stations on a broadband network are connected by coaxial or fiber-optic cable. The cable itself can be made to carry data, voice, and video simultaneously over multiple transmission channels. This complex transmission is accomplished by the technique called frequency-division multiplexing, in which individual channels are separated by frequency and buffered from one another by guard bands of frequencies that are not used for transmission. A broadband network is capable of high-speed operation, but it is more expensive than a baseband network and can be difficult to install. Such a network is based on the same technology as is used by cable television. Broadband transmission is sometimes called wideband transmission. [SRV] (see also networks)

broadcast

Transmission to all devices in a network without any acknowledgment by the receivers. [800-82]

brouters

Brouters are routers that can also bridge; they route one or more protocols and bridge all other network traffic. [SRV] (see also networks)

browse access protection

A system software security feature that when invoked by a file owner, prevents read access to a specified file by any user other than the file owner and any users authorized by explicit action of the file owner. This feature can also be invoked as a global system parameter to provide read access protection automatically to all files by any user other than the file owner and to any users authorized by explicit action of the file owner. [NASA] (see also authorized, access control)

browser

(I) An client computer program that can retrieve and display information from servers on the World Wide Web. (C) For example, Netscape's Navigator and Communicator, and Microsoft's Explorer. [RFC2828] A client program used to interact on the WWW. [SRV] (see also world wide web)

browsing

Act of searching through IS storage to locate or acquire information, without necessarily knowing the existence or format of information being sought. [CNSSI] The act of searching through storage to locate or acquire information without necessarily knowing the existence or the format of the information being sought. [AJP][NCSC/TG004][SRV] (see also attack)

brute force

(I) A cryptanalysis technique or other kind of attack method involving an exhaustive procedure that tries all possibilities, one-by-one. (C) For example, for ciphertext where the analyst already knows the decryption algorithm, a brute force technique to finding the original plaintext is to decrypt the message with every possible key. [RFC2828] A primitive programming style (ignorance), one in which the programmer relies on the computer's processing power instead of using his or her own intelligence to simplify the problem, often ignoring problems of scale and applying naive methods suited to small problems directly to large ones. [AFSEC] (see also analysis, cipher, cryptography, key, attack)

brute force attack

buffer overflow

A condition at an interface under which more input can be placed into a buffer or data holding area than the capacity allocated, overwriting other information. Adversaries exploit such a condition to crash a system or to insert specially crafted code that allows them to gain control of the system. [800-82] This happens when more data is put into a buffer or holding area than the buffer can handle. This is due to a mismatch in processing rates between the producing and consuming processes. This can result in system crashes or the creation of a back door leading to system access. [NSAINT] This happens when more data is put into a buffer or holding area, then the buffer can handle. This is due to a mismatch in processing rates between the producing and consuming processes. [AFSEC] This happens when more data is put into a buffer or holding area, then the buffer can handle. This is due to a mismatch in processing rates between the producing and consuming processes. This can result in system crashes or the creation of a back door leading to system access. [OVT] a technique for crashing or gaining control of a computer by sending too much data to the buffer in a computer's memory. [FJC] (see also access control, threat)

bug

A fault in a program which causes the program to perform in an unintended or unanticipated manner. [OVT] An unwanted and unintended property of a program or piece of hardware, especially one that causes it to malfunction. [NSAINT] An unwanted or unintended property of a program or piece of hardware that causes it to malfunction. [AFSEC] (see also anomaly, defect, error, exception, fault, threat)

bulk encryption

Simultaneous encryption of all channels of a multichannel telecommunications link. [CNSSI] (see also encryption)

bulletin board services (systems) (BBS)

(see also system)

business areas

'Business areas' separate government operations into high-level categories relating to the purpose of government, the mechanisms the government uses to achieve its purposes, the support functions necessary to conduct government operations, and resource management functions that support all areas of the government's business. 'Business areas' are subdivided into 'areas of operation' or 'lines of business.' The recommended information types provided in NIST SP 800-60 is established from the 'business areas' and 'lines of business' from OMB's Business Reference Model (BRM) section of Federal Enterprise Architecture (FEA) Consolidated Reference Model Document Version 2.2 [800-60]

business case

A structured proposal for business improvement that functions as a decision package for organizational decision makers. A business case includes an analysis of business process performance and associated needs or problems, proposed alternative solutions, assumptions, constraints, and risk-adjusted cost/benefit analysis. [SRV] (see also analysis, risk, business process)

business continuity plan (BCP)

A comprehensive written plan to maintain or resume business in the event of a disruption. [FFIEC] (see also risk, availability, business process)

business disruption and system failures

disruption of business or system failures. [2003-53c] (see also operational risk loss)

business impact analysis (BIA)

The process of identifying the potential impact of uncontrolled, non-specific events on an institution's business processes. [FFIEC] (see also identify, analysis, availability, business process, risk analysis)

business process

business process improvement (BPI)

A methodology used for making continuous, incremental improvements in existing business processes. [SRV] (see also business process, quality)

business process reengineering (BPR)

A systematic, disciplined improvement approach that critically examines, rethinks, and redesigns mission-delivery processes in order to achieve dramatic improvements in performance in areas important to customers and stakeholders. A methodology used for seeking radical changes to business processes. [SRV] (see also quality, business process)

bypass label processing (BLP)

byte

(I) A fundamental unit of computer storage; the smallest addressable unit in a computer's architecture. Usually holds one character of information and, today, usually means eight bits. (C) Larger than a 'bit', but smaller than a 'word'. Although 'byte' almost always means 'octet' today, bytes had other sizes (e.g. six bits, nine bits) in earlier computer architectures. [RFC2828] (see also automated information system)

C2-attack

Prevent effective C2 of adversary forces by denying information to, influencing, degrading or destroying the adversary C2 system. [NSAINT] (see also C2-protect, attack)

C2-protect

Maintain effective command and control of own forces by turning to friendly advantage or negating adversary effort to deny information to, influence, degrade, or destroy the friendly C2 system. (Pending approval in JP 1-02) [NSAINT] (see also C2-attack, command and control, Orange book, security)

CA certificate

(I) 'A certificate for one CA issued by another CA.' (C) That is, a digital certificate whose holder is able to issue digital certificates. A v3 X.509 public-key certificate may have a 'basicConstraints' extension containing a 'cA' value that specifically 'indicates whether or not the public key may be used to verify certificate signatures.' [RFC2828] (see also digital signature, key, certificate)

call back

(I) An authentication technique for terminals that remotely access computer via telephone lines. The host system disconnects the caller and then calls back on a telephone number that was previously authorized for that terminal. [RFC2828] A procedure established for positively identifying a terminal dialing into a computer system by disconnecting the calling terminal and reestablishing the connection by the computer system's dialing the telephone number of the calling terminal. Synonymous with dial-back. [SRV] A procedure for identifying a remote terminal. In a call back, the host system disconnects the caller and then dials the authorized telephone number of the remote terminal to reestablish the connection. [AJP][NCSC/TG004] Procedure for identifying and authenticating a remote IS terminal, whereby the host system disconnects the terminal and reestablishes contact. Synonymous with dial back. [CNSSI] (see also access control, authentication, authorized, identify, security)

call back security

Procedure for identifying a remote AIS terminal, whereby the host system disconnects the caller and then dials the authorized telephone number of the remote terminal to re-establish the connection. [AFSEC] (see also authorized, identify, security)

Canadian Trusted Computer Product Evaluation Criteria (CTCPEC)

Canadian secure products criteria. [AJP] (see also Common Criteria for Information Technology Security Evaluation, criteria, trust)

candidate TCB subset

The identification of the hardware, firmware, and software that make up the proposed TCB subset, along with the identification of its subjects and objects; one of the conditions for evaluation by parts. [AJP][TDI] (see also evaluation, identification, software, trusted computing base) (includes object, subject)

canister

Type of protective package used to contain and dispense keying material in punched or printed tape form. [CNSSI]

capability

(I) A token, usually an unforgeable data value (sometimes called a 'ticket') that gives the bearer or holder the right to access a system resource. Possession of the token is accepted by a system as proof that the holder has been authorized to access the resource named or indicated by the token. (C) This concept can be implemented as a digital certificate. [RFC2828] A protected identifier that both identifies the object and specifies the access rights to be allowed to the accessor who possesses the capability. In a capability-based system, access to protected objects such as files is granted if the would-be accessor possesses a capability for the object. [AJP][NCSC/TG004] The ability of a suitably organized, trained, and equipped entity to access, penetrate, or alter government or privately owned information or communications systems and/or to disrupt, deny, or destroy all or part of a critical infrastructure. [CIAO] (see also access control, authorized, certificate, critical infrastructures, public-key infrastructure, risk, tokens) (includes object)

capacity

Positive integer indicating the number of bits available within the signature for the recoverable part of the message. [SC27]

CAPSTONE chip

(N) An integrated circuit (the Mykotronx, Inc. MYK-82) with a Type II cryptographic processor that implements SKIPJACK, KEA, DSA, SHA, and basic mathematical functions to support asymmetric cryptography, and includes the key escrow feature of the CLIPPER chip. [RFC2828] (see also Fortezza, cryptography, key, National Security Agency)

capture

The method of taking a biometric sample from an end user. [GSA] (see also user, biometrics)

card backup

(see token backup) (see also backup)

card initialization

Refers to the process of preparing a card for use by performing the following tasks: searching for initialization files, locating definite values to use in place of variable values, and loading these values. [GSA] (see also tokens)

card personalization

Refers to the modification of a card such that it contains data specific to the cardholder. Methods of personalization may include encoding the magnetic stripe or bar code, loading data on the ICC, or printing photo or signature data on the card. [GSA] (see also tokens)

cardholder

(I) An entity that has been issued a card. (O) SET usage: 'The holder of a valid payment card account and user of software supporting electronic commerce.' A cardholder is issued a payment card by an issuer. SET ensures that in the cardholder's interactions with merchants, the payment card account information remains confidential. [RFC2828] An individual possessing an issued PIV Card. [GSA] (see also software, Secure Electronic Transaction)

cardholder certificate

(O) SET usage: A digital certificate that is issued to a cardholder upon approval of the cardholder's issuing financial institution and that is transmitted to merchants with purchase requests and encrypted payment instructions, carrying assurance that the account number has been validated by the issuing financial institution and cannot be altered by a third party. [RFC2828] (see also encryption, tokens, Secure Electronic Transaction, certificate)

cardholder certification authority (CCA)

(O) SET usage: A CA responsible for issuing digital certificates to cardholders and operated on behalf of a payment card brand, an issuer, or another party according to brand rules. A CCA maintains relationships with card issuers to allow for the verification of cardholder accounts. A CCA does not issue a CRL but does distribute CRLs issued by root CAs, brand CAs, geopolitical CAs, and payment gateway CAs. [RFC2828] (see also certificate, certification, tokens, Secure Electronic Transaction, public-key infrastructure)

cascading

Downward flow of information through a range of security levels greater than the accreditation range of a system network or component. [CNSSI] (see also accreditation, networks)

CASE tools

A class of software tools that provide plans, models, and designs. CASE tools enforce consistency across multiple diagrams and store information, built up by analysts and designers, in a central repository. Software tools that assist with software design, requirements traceability, code generation, testing and other software engineering activities. A software program that provides partial or total automation of a single function within the software life cycle. [SRV] (see also model, security testing, software, test)

CAST

(N) A design procedure for symmetric encryption algorithms, and a resulting family of algorithms, invented by C.A. (Carlisle Adams) and S.T. (Stafford Tavares). [RFC2828] (see also encryption, symmetric cryptography)

category

(1) A grouping of objects to which a non-hierarchical restrictive label is applied (e.g. proprietary, compartmented information). Subjects must be privileged to access a category. (2) Restrictive label that has been applied to both classified and unclassified data, thereby increasing the requirement for protection of, and restricting the access to, the data. Note: Examples include sensitive compartmented information and proprietary information. Individuals are granted access to a special category of information only after being granted formal access authorization. [AJP] (I) A grouping of sensitive information items to which a non-hierarchical restrictive security label is applied to increase protection of the data. [RFC2828] A grouping of objects to which an non-hierarchical restrictive label is applied (e.g. proprietary, compartmented information). Subjects must be privileged to access a category. [TNI] A restrictive label that has been applied to classified or unclassified data as a means of increasing the protection of the data and further restricting access to the data. [NCSC/TG004] Restrictive label applied to classified or unclassified information to limit access. [CNSSI] Restrictive label that has been applied to both classified and unclassified data, thereby increasing the requirement for protection of, and restricting the access to, the data. Note: Examples include sensitive compartmented information and proprietary information. Individuals are granted access to special category information only after being granted formal access authorization. [FCv1] (see also access control, authorization, privileged, security) (includes object)

cause and effect diagram

(see fishbone diagram)

CCI assembly

Device embodying a cryptographic logic or other COMSEC design that NSA has approved as a Controlled Cryptographic Item (CCI). It performs the entire COMSEC function, but depends upon the host equipment to operate. [CNSSI] (see also communications security, cryptography)

CCI component

Part of a Controlled Cryptographic Item (CCI) that does not perform the entire COMSEC function but depends upon the host equipment, or assembly, to complete and operate the COMSEC function. [CNSSI] (see also communications security, cryptography)

CCI equipment

Telecommunications or information handling equipment that embodies a Controlled Cryptographic Item (CCI) component or CCI assembly and performs the entire COMSEC function without dependence on host equipment to operate. [CNSSI] (see also communications, communications security, cryptography)

CCITT

(N) Acronym for French translation of International Telephone and Telegraph Consultative Committee. Now renamed ITU-T. [RFC2828] (see also ITU-T)

cell

In cellular systems, the smallest geographic area defined for mobile communications systems. [SRV]

cellular telephone

A wireless telephone that communicates using radio wave antenna towers, each serving a particular 'cell' of a city or other geographical area. Areas where cellular phones do not work are referred to as 'dead zones.' [FFIEC]

cellular transmission

Data transmission via interchangeable wireless (radio) communications in a network of numerous small geographic cells. Most current technology is analog - represented as electrical levels, not bits. However, the trend is toward digital cellular data transmission. [AJP] (see also communications, networks)

center for information technology excellence

Will recognize public and private training facilities meeting federally defined standards in security training, to train and certify current Federal IT security personnel and maintain their skill levels throughout their careers. [CIAO]

central office of record (COR)

Office of a federal department or agency that keeps records of accountable COMSEC material held by elements subject to its oversight. [CNSSI] (see also communications security)

central processing unit (CPU)

(see also automated information system)

centralized authorization

A scheme in which a central, third-party authorization agent is consulted for access control. All access control rules are defined in the database of the central authorization agent. [misc] (see also access control)

centralized data processing

A concept by which an organization maintains all computing equipment at a single site (host), and the supporting field-office(s) have no effective data processing capabilities. [SRV] (see also automated information system)

centralized operations

The state of all IT operational tasks and ancillary functions being located and performed in one local area. The area may or may not be nearby the IT hardware operated (i.e., computer room(s) or laboratory(s)). IT operational tasks include but are not limited to the setup, operation (start, stop, configure, bypass/recover, etc.), and monitoring of console control units and peripherals. Ancillary functions include but are not limited to job and event scheduling and processing, job quality control, magnetic tape cleaning and certification, tape library operation, and coordination of tape retention and accountability tasks. [NASA]

centrally-administered network

A network of systems that is the responsibility of a single group of administrators who are not distributed but work centrally to take care of the network. [RFC2504] (see also networks)

certificate

(I) General English usage: A document that attests to the truth of something or the ownership of something. (C) Security usage: See: capability, digital certificate. (C) PKI usage: See: attribute certificate, public-key certificate. [RFC2828] A declaration by an independent authority operating in accordance with ISO Guide 58, Calibration and testing laboratory accreditation systems - General requirements for operation and recognition, confirming that an evaluation pass statement is valid. [SC27] A digital representation of information that (1) identifies the authority issuing the certificate; (2) names or identifies the person, process, or equipment using the certificate; (3) contains the user's public key; (4) identifies the certificate's operational period; and (5) is digitally signed by the certificate authority issuing it. A certificate is the means by which a user is linked (bound) to a public key. [GAO06178] A digitally signed data structure defined in the X.509 standard that binds the identity of a certificate holder (or subject) to a public key. [SRV] An electronic identifier from a certificate authority which includes the CA signature made with its private key. The authenticity of the signature is validated by other users who trust the CA's public key. [misc] An entity's data rendered unforgeable with the private or secret key of a certification authority. [SC27] An entity's data rendered unforgeable with the private or secret key of a certification authority. [ISO/IEC WD 13888-1 (11/2001)] A declaration by an independent authority operating in accordance with ISO Guide 58, Calibration and testing laboratory accreditation systems - General requirements for operation and recognition, confirming that an evaluation pass statement is valid. [SC27] Certificates are data that is used to verify digital signatures. A certificate is only as trustworthy as the agency that issued it. A certificate is used to verify a particular signed item, such as an Email message or a web page. The digital signature, the item and the certificate are all processed by a mathematical program. It is possible to say, if the signature is valid, that 'According to the agency that issued the certificate, the signer was (some name)'. [RFC2504] Digitally signed document that binds a public key with an identity. The certificate contains, at a minimum, the identity of the issuing Certification Authority, the user identification information, and the user's public key. [CNSSI] Record holding security information about an AIS user and vouches to the truth and accuracy of the information it contains. [IATF] (see also ABA Guidelines, Abstract Syntax Notation One, Cryptographic Message Syntax, Distinguished Encoding Rules, Federal Public-key Infrastructure, MISSI user, Minimum Interoperability Specification for PKI Components, PKCS #10, PKIX, RA domains, SET private extension, SET qualifier, X.500 Directory, X.509, X.509 authority revocation list, X.509 certificate revocation list, accreditation, archive, attribute authority, authenticate, authority, authority revocation list, bind, capability, cardholder certification authority, certificate authority, certificate chain, certificate chain validation, certificate creation, certificate expiration, certificate extension, certificate holder, certificate management, certificate owner, certificate policy, certificate policy qualifier, certificate reactivation, certificate rekey, certificate renewal, certificate request, certificate revocation, certificate revocation list, certificate revocation tree, certificate serial number, certificate status responder, certificate update, certificate user, certificate validation, certification authority workstation, certification hierarchy, certification path, certification policy, certification practice statement, certification request, certify, common name, compromised key list, critical, cross-certification, cryptoperiod, delta CRL, digital id, directory vs. Directory, distinguished name, distribution point, domain, end entity, evaluation, extension, geopolitical certificate authority, hierarchy management, identity, indirect certificate revocation list, invalidity date, issue, issuer, key, key lifetime, key material identifier, merchant certification authority, mesh PKI, online certificate status protocol, organizational registration authority, path discovery, path validation, payment gateway certification authority, personality label, policy, policy approving authority, policy creation authority, policy mapping, privilege management infrastructure, registration, registration authority, relying party, repository, revocation, revocation date, root, secure hypertext transfer protocol, security event, security testing, slot, strong authentication, subject, subordinate certification authority, test, ticket, token management, trust-file PKI, trusted key, unforgeable, v1 CRL, v2 CRL, valid signature, validate vs. verify, validity period, world wide web, Secure Electronic Transaction, certification authority, multilevel information systems security initiative, pretty good privacy, privacy enhanced mail, user, web of trust) (includes CA certificate, X.509 attribute certificate, X.509 certificate, X.509 public-key certificate, attribute certificate, authority certificate, cardholder certificate, cross-certificate, digital certificate, encryption certificate, merchant certificate, organizational certificate, public-key certificate, root certificate, self-signed certificate, signature certificate, trusted certificate, v1 certificate, v2 certificate, v3 certificate, valid certificate)

certificate authority (CA)

(D) ISDs SHOULD NOT use this term because it looks like sloppy use of 'certification authority', that is the term standardized by X.509. [RFC2828] The entity or organization that attests using a digital certificate that a particular electronic message comes from a specific individual or system. [FFIEC] (see certification authority) (see also certificate, certification, test, public-key infrastructure)

certificate authority workstation (CAW)

certificate chain

(D) ISDs SHOULD NOT use this term because it duplicates the meaning of a standardized term. [RFC2828] (see also certificate, certification, public-key infrastructure)

certificate chain validation

(D) ISDs SHOULD NOT use this term because it duplicates the meaning of standardized terms and mixes concepts in a potentially misleading way. Instead, use 'certificate validation' or 'path validation', depending on what is meant. [RFC2828] (see also certificate, public-key infrastructure)

certificate creation

(I) The act or process by which a CA sets the values of a digital certificate's data fields and signs it. [RFC2828] (see also certificate, public-key infrastructure)

certificate directory

A directory containing a well defined (sub)set of public key certificates. This directory can contain certificates from different Certification Authorities. [SC27] (see also public-key infrastructure)

certificate domain

Collection of entities using public key certificates created by a single Certification Authority (CA) or a collection of CAs operating under a single security policy. [SC27] (see also security)

certificate domain parameters

Cryptographic parameters specific to a certificate domain and which are known and agreed by all members of the certificate domain. [SC27] (see also cryptography, public-key infrastructure)

certificate expiration

(I) The event that occurs when a certificate ceases to be valid because its assigned lifetime has been exceeded. [RFC2828] (see also certificate, public-key infrastructure)

certificate extension

(see also certificate, extension)

certificate holder

(D) ISDs SHOULD NOT use this term as a synonym for the subject of digital certificate because the term is potentially ambiguous. For example, the term could also refer to a system entity, such as repository, that simply has possession of a copy of the certificate. [RFC2828] (see also certificate)

certificate management

(I) The functions that a CA may perform during the life cycle of a digital certificate, including the following:

Acquire and verify data items to bind into the certificate.
Encode and sign the certificate.
Store the certificate in a directory or repository.
Renew, rekey, and update the certificate.
Revoke the certificate and issue a CRL.

[RFC2828] Process whereby certificates (as defined above) are generated, stored, protected, transferred, loaded, used, and destroyed. [CNSSI] (see also certificate, key, rekey, public-key infrastructure)

certificate management services

All services needed for the maintenance of the lifecycle of certificates, including registration, certification, distribution, and revocation of certificates. [SC27] (see also public-key infrastructure)

certificate owner

(D) ISDs SHOULD NOT use this term as a synonym for the subject of digital certificate because the term is potentially ambiguous. For example, the term could also refer to a system entity, such as corporation, that has acquired a certificate to operate some other entity, such as a Web server. [RFC2828] (see also certificate, world wide web)

certificate policy

(I) 'A named set of rules that indicates the applicability of a certificate to a particular community and/or class of application with common security requirements.' (C) A certificate policy can help a certificate user decide whether a certificate should be trusted in a particular application. 'For example, a particular certificate policy might indicate applicability of a type of certificate for the authentication of electronic data interchange transactions for the trading goods within a given price range.' (C) A v3 X.509 public-key certificate may have a 'certificatePolicies' extension that lists certificate policies, recognized by the issuing CA, that apply to the certificate and govern its use. Each policy is denoted by an object identifier and may optionally have certificate policy qualifiers.(C) SET usage: Every SET certificate specifies at least one certificate policy, that of the SET root CA. SET uses certificate policy qualifiers to point to the actual policy statement and to add qualifying policies to the root policy. [RFC2828] (see also authentication, certificate, key, trust, Secure Electronic Transaction, public-key infrastructure)

certificate policy qualifier

(I) Information that pertains to a certificate policy and is included in a 'certificatePolicies' extension in a v3 X.509 public-key certificate. [RFC2828] (see also certificate, key, public-key infrastructure)

certificate reactivation

(I) The act or process by which a digital certificate, which a CA has designated for revocation but not yet listed on a CRL, is returned to the valid state. [RFC2828] (see also certificate, public-key infrastructure)

certificate rekey

(I) The act or process by which an existing public-key certificate has its public key value changed by issuing a new certificate with different (usually new) public key. (C) For an X.509 public-key certificate, the essence of rekey is that the subject stays the same and a new public key is bound to that subject. Other changes are made, and the old certificate is revoked, only as required by the PKI and CPS in support of the rekey. If changes go beyond that, the process is a 'certificate update'. (O) MISSI usage: To rekey a MISSI X.509 public-key certificate means that the issuing authority creates a new certificate that is identical to the old one, except the new one has a new, different KEA key; or a new, different DSS key; or new, different KEA and DSS keys. The new certificate also has a different serial number and may have a different validity period. A new key creation date and maximum key lifetime period are assigned to each newly generated key. If a new KEA key is generated, that key is assigned new KMID. The old certificate remains valid until it expires, but may not be further renewed, rekeyed, or updated. [RFC2828] (see also certificate, key, multilevel information systems security initiative, public-key infrastructure, rekey)

certificate renewal

(I) The act or process by which the validity of the data binding asserted by an existing public-key certificate is extended in time by issuing a new certificate. (C) For an X.509 public-key certificate, this term means that the validity period is extended (and, of course, a new serial number is assigned) but the binding of the public key to the subject and to other data items stays the same. The other data items are changed, and the old certificate is revoked, only as required by the PKI and CPS to support the renewal. If changes go beyond that, the process is a 'certificate rekey' or 'certificate update'. [RFC2828] (see also certificate, key, rekey, public-key infrastructure)

certificate request

(D) ISDs SHOULD NOT use this term because it looks like imprecise use of a term standardized by PKCS #10 and used in PKIX. Instead, use the standard term, 'certification request'. [RFC2828] (see also certificate, certification, public-key infrastructure)

certificate revocation

(I) The event that occurs when a CA declares that a previously valid digital certificate issued by that CA has become invalid; usually stated with a revocation date. (C) In X.509, a revocation is announced to potential certificate users by issuing a CRL that mentions the certificate. Revocation and listing on a CRL is only necessary before certificate expiration. [RFC2828] (see also certificate, public-key infrastructure) (includes revocation)

certificate revocation list (CRL)

(I) A data structure that enumerates digital certificates that have been invalidated by their issuer prior to when they were scheduled to expire. (O) 'A signed list indicating a set of certificates that are no longer considered valid by the certificate issuer. After a certificate appears on a CRL, it is deleted from a subsequent CRL after the certificate's expiry. CRLs may be used to identify revoked public-key certificates or attribute certificates and may represent revocation of certificates issued to authorities or to users. The term CRL is also commonly used as a generic term applying to all the different types of revocation lists, including CRLs, ARLs, ACRLs, etc.' [RFC2828] A list of revoked but unexpired certificates issued by a certification authority. [SRV] A list of revoked public key certificates created and digitally signed by a Certification Authority. [800-63] A record of all revoked certificates produced by a common Issuer; a certificate is revoked when any data in it changes before it expires, e.g. when a user moves and changes addresses. [IATF] List of invalid certificates (as defined above) that have been revoked by the issuer. [CNSSI] list of nonvalid user certificates that must be checked as part of every authentication or encryption process. [misc] (see also accreditation, authentication, certificate, evaluation, identify, key, certification authority, user)

certificate revocation tree

(I) A mechanism for distributing notice of certificate revocations; uses a tree of hash results that is signed by the tree's issuer. Offers an alternative to issuing a CRL, but is not supported in X.509. [RFC2828] (see also certificate, hash)

certificate serial number

(I) An integer value that (a) is associated with, and may be carried in, a digital certificate; (b) is assigned to the certificate by the certificate's issuer; and (c) is unique among all the certificates produced by that issuer. (O) 'An integer value, unique within the issuing CA, that is unambiguously associated with a certificate issued by that CA.' [RFC2828] (see also certificate)

certificate status responder

(N) FPKI usage: A trusted on-line server that acts for a CA to provide authenticated certificate status information to certificate users. Offers an alternative to issuing a CRL, but is not supported in X.509. [RFC2828] (see also authentication, certificate, trust, public-key infrastructure)

certificate update

(I) The act or process by which non-key data items bound in an existing public-key certificate, especially authorizations granted to the subject, are changed by issuing a new certificate. (C) For an X.509 public-key certificate, the essence of this process is that fundamental changes are made in the data that is bound to the public key, such that it is necessary to revoke the old certificate. (Otherwise, the process is only a 'certificate rekey' or 'certificate renewal'.) [RFC2828] (see also authorization, certificate, key, rekey, public-key infrastructure)

certificate user

(I) A system entity that depends on the validity of information (such as another entity's public key value) provided by a digital certificate. (O) 'An entity that needs to know, with certainty, the public key of another entity.' (C) The system entity may be a human being or an organization, or device or process under the control of a human or an organization. (D) ISDs SHOULD NOT use this term as a synonym for the 'subject' of a certificate. [RFC2828] (see also certificate, key, user)

certificate validation

(I) An act or process by which a certificate user establishes that the assertions made by a digital certificate can be trusted. (O) 'The process of ensuring that a certificate is valid including possibly the construction and processing of a certification path, and ensuring that all certificates in that path have not expired or been revoked.' (C) To validate a certificate, a certificate user checks that the certificate is properly formed and signed and currently in force:

Checks the signature: Employs the issuer's public key to verify the digital signature of the CA who issued the certificate in question. If the verifier obtains the issuer's public key from the issuer's own public-key certificate, that certificate should be validated, too. That validation may lead to yet another certificate to be validated, and so on. Thus, in general, certificate validation involves discovering and validating a certification path.
Checks the syntax and semantics: Parses the certificate's syntax and interprets its semantics, applying rules specified for and by its data fields, such as for critical extensions in an X.509 certificate.
Checks currency and revocation: Verifies that the certificate is currently in force by checking that the current date and time are within the validity period (if that is specified in the certificate) and that the certificate is not listed on a CRL or otherwise announced as invalid. (CRLs themselves require similar validation process.)

[RFC2828] (see also certificate, certification, digital signature, key, trust, public-key infrastructure)

certification

A comprehensive assessment of the management, operational and technical security controls in an information system, made in support of security accreditation, to determine the extent to which the controls are implemented correctly, operating as intended, and producing the desired outcome with respect to meeting the security requirements for the system. [800-60] (1) Comprehensive evaluation of the technical and nontechnical security features of an AIS and other safeguards, made in support of the approval/accreditation process, to establish the extent to which a particular design and implementation meet a set of specified security requirements. Note: There remain two other definitions in active common usage that differ according to circumstances. (2) The issue of a formal statement confirming the results of an evaluation, and that the evaluation criteria used were correctly applied. Synonym for IT security certification. [AJP] (I) Information system usage: Technical evaluation (usually made in support of an accreditation action) of an information system's security features and other safeguards to establish the extent to which the system's design and implementation meet specified security requirements. (I) Digital certificate usage: The act or process of vouching for the truth and accuracy of the binding between data items in a certificate. (I) Public key usage: The act or process of vouching for the ownership of a public key by issuing a public-key certificate that binds the key to the name of the entity that possesses the matching private key. In addition to binding a key to a name, a public-key certificate may bind those items to other restrictive or explanatory data items. (O) SET usage: 'The process of ascertaining that a set of requirements or criteria has been fulfilled and attesting to that fact to others, usually with some written instrument. A system that has been inspected and evaluated as fully compliant with the SET protocol by duly authorized parties and process would be said to have been certified compliant.' [RFC2828] A comprehensive assessment of the management, operational, and technical security controls in an information system, made in support of security accreditation, to determine the extent to which the controls are implemented correctly, operating as intended, and producing the desired outcome with respect to meeting the security requirements for the system. [800-82] Comprehensive evaluation of the technical and nontechnical security features of an AIS and other safeguards, made in support of the accreditation process, to establish the extent to which a particular design and implementation meets a set of specified security requirements. [FCv1] Comprehensive evaluation of the technical and nontechnical security safeguards of an IS to support the accreditation process that establishes the extent to which a particular design and implementation meets a set of specified security requirements. [CNSSI] Procedure by which a third party gives written assurance that a deliverable (product, system or service) conforms to specified requirements. [SC27] The administrative act of approving a computer system for use in a particular application. [SRV] The comprehensive evaluation of the technical and non-technical security controls of an IT system to support the accreditation process that establishes the extent to which a particular design and implementation meets a set of specified security requirements. [800-37] The comprehensive evaluation of the technical and nontechnical security features of an AIS and other safeguards, made in support of the accreditation process, that establishes the extent to which a particular design and implementation meet a specified set of security requirements. [NCSC/TG004][OVT] The issue of a formal statement confirming the results of an evaluation, and that the evaluation criteria used were correctly applied. [ITSEC] The process of verifying the correctness of a statement or claim and issuing a certificate as to its correctness. [GSA] The technical evaluation of a system's security features, made as part of and in support of the approval/accreditation process, that establishes the extent to which a particular system's design and implementation meet a set of specified security requirements. [TCSEC][TNI] (see also British Standard 7799, Internet Policy Registration Authority, MISSI user, PIV registrar, RA domains, SET qualifier, SSO PIN, assessment, authority, authority certificate, authorized, brand certification authority, cardholder certification authority, certificate authority, certificate chain, certificate request, certificate validation, certification authority workstation, certification hierarchy, certification path, certification policy, certification practice statement, certification request, computer security, extension, external security controls, geopolitical certificate authority, hierarchical PKI, hierarchy management, hierarchy of trust, key, merchant certification authority, path discovery, path validation, penetration test, policy approving authority, policy certification authority, policy creation authority, pre-authorization, privacy enhanced mail, public-key certificate, public-key infrastructure, root, root certificate, security event, security program manager, security test & evaluation, security testing, subordinate certification authority, test, top CA, trust, trust chain, trust hierarchy, trust-file PKI, trusted certificate, trusted key, validate vs. verify, Secure Electronic Transaction, multilevel information systems security initiative) (includes IT security certification, accreditation, automated information system, certification agent or certifier, certification authority, certification body, certification package, certification phase, entry-level certification, evaluation, mid-level certification, payment gateway certification authority, pre-certification phase, requirements, security certification level, site certification, top-level certification)

certification agent or certifier

The individual (and supporting team) responsible for making an independent technical and non-technical evaluation of a system based on the security requirements and security controls documented in the security plan. The certifier assesses the vulnerabilities in the system, determines if the security controls are correctly implemented and effective, and identifies the level of residual risk. [800-37] (see also risk, security, certification)

certification and accreditation (C&A)

Certification is the comprehensive evaluation of the technical and nontechnical security features of an IS and other safeguards, made in support of the accreditation process, to establish the extent to which a particular design and implementation meets a set of specified requirements. Accreditation is the formal declaration by a DAA that an IS approved to operate in a particular security mode using a prescribed set of safeguards at an acceptable level of risk. [IATF] (see also accreditation, evaluation, requirements, risk)

certification authority (CA)

(I) An entity that issues digital certificates (especially X.509 certificates) and vouches for the binding between the data items in a certificate. (O) 'An authority trusted by one or more users to create and assign certificates. Optionally, the certification authority may create the user's keys.' (C) Certificate users depend on the validity of information provided by a certificate. Thus, a CA should be someone that certificate users trust, and usually holds an official position created and granted power by a government, a corporation, or some other organization. A CA is responsible for managing the life cycle of certificates and, depending on the type of certificate and the CPS that applies, may be responsible for the life cycle of key pairs associated with the certificates. [RFC2828] (C&A) Official responsible for performing the comprehensive evaluation of the security features of an information system and determining the degree to which it meets its security requirements. (PKI) Trusted entity authorized to create, sign, and issue public key certificates. By digitally signing each certificate issued, the user's identity is certified, and the association of the certified identity with a public key is validated. [CNSSI] A centre trusted to create and assign public key certificates. Optionally, the certification authority may create and assign keys to the entities. [SC27] A trusted agent that issues digital certificates to principals. Certification authorities may themselves have a certificate that is issued to them by other certification authorities. The highest certification authority is called the root CA. [IATF][misc] A trusted entity that issues and revokes public key certificates. [800-63] A trusted entity that issues certificates to end entities and other CAs. CAs issue CRLs periodically, and post certificates and CRLs to a repository. [SRV] (see also PIV issuer, authorized, identity, identity credential issuer, key, user, certification, public-key infrastructure, trust) (includes certificate, certificate revocation list, credentials, cross-certification, nonrepudiation, root CA)

certification authority digital signature (CADS)

relying party uses certificate manufactured by a certification authority to obtain the public key for digital signature authentication [misc] (see also authentication, public-key infrastructure)

certification authority workstation (CAW)

(I) A computer system that enables a CA to issue digital certificates and supports other certificate management functions as required. [RFC2828] Commercial-off-the-shelf (COTS) workstation with a trusted operating system and special purpose application software that is used to issue certificates. [CNSSI] (see also certificate, certification, public-key infrastructure)

certification body

An independent and impartial national organization that performs certification. [AJP][ITSEC] (see also certification)

certification hierarchy

(I) A tree-structured (loop-free) topology of relationships among CAs and the entities to whom the CAs issue public-key certificates. (C) In this structure, one CA is the top CA, the highest level of the hierarchy. The top CA may issue public-key certificates to one or more additional CAs that form the second highest level. Each of these CAs may issue certificates to more CAs at the third highest level, and so on. The CAs at the second-lowest of the hierarchy issue certificates only to non-CA entities, called 'end entities' that form the lowest level. Thus, all certification paths begin at the top CA and descend through zero or more levels of other CAs. All certificate users base path validations on the top CA's public key. (O) MISSI usage: A MISSI certification hierarchy has three or four levels of CAs:

A CA at the highest level, the top CA, is a 'policy approving authority'.
A CA at the second-highest level is a 'policy creation authority'.
A CA at the third-highest level is a local authority called a 'certification authority'.
A CA at the fourth-highest (optional) level is a 'subordinate certification authority'. (O) PEM usage: A PEM certification hierarchy has three levels of CAs:
The highest level is the 'Internet Policy Registration Authority'.
A CA at the second-highest level is a 'policy certification authority'.
A CA at the third-highest level is a 'certification authority'. (O) SET usage: A SET certification hierarchy has three or four levels of CAs:
The highest level is a 'SET root CA'.
A CA at the second-highest level is a 'brand certification authority'.
A CA at the third-highest (optional) level is a 'geopolitical certification authority'.
A CA at the fourth-highest level is a 'cardholder CA', a 'merchant CA', or a 'payment gateway CA'.

certification package

Product of the certification effort documenting the detailed results of the certification activities. [CNSSI] Product of the certification effort documenting the detailed results of the certification activities. The certification package includes the security plan, developmental and/or operational ST&E re ports, risk assessment report, and certifier's statement. [800-37] (see also assessment, certification)

certification path

(I) An ordered sequence of public-key certificates (or a sequence of public-key certificates followed by one attribute certificate) that enables a certificate user to verify the signature on the last certificate in the path, and thus enables the user to obtain certified public key (or certified attributes) of the entity that is the subject of that last certificate. (O) 'An ordered sequence of certificates of objects in the [X.500 Directory Information Tree] which, together with the public key of the initial object in the path, can be processed to obtain that of the final object in the path.' [X509, R2527] (C) The path is the 'list of certificates needed to allow a particular user to obtain the public key of another.' The list is 'linked' in the sense that the digital signature of each certificate (except the first) is verified by the public key contained in the preceding certificate; i.e., the private key used to sign a certificate and the public key contained in the preceding certificate form a key pair owned by the entity that signed. (C) In the X.509 quotation in the previous 'C' paragraph, the word 'particular' points out that a certification path that can be validated by one certificate user might not be able to be validated by another. That is because either the first certificate should be a trusted certificate (it might be a root certificate) or the signature on the first certificate should be verified by a trusted key (it might be a root key), but such trust is defined relative to each user, not absolutely for all users. [RFC2828] An ordered sequence of certificates, leading from a certificate whose public key is known by a client, to a certificate whose public key is to be validated by the client. [SRV] (see also certificate, certification, digital signature, key, trust, public-key infrastructure)

certification phase

The certification phase is the second phase of the certification and accreditation process. Its purpose is to demonstrate through independent assessments using selected verification techniques and verification procedures that the security controls for the IT system have been implemented correctly and are effective in their application. [800-37] (see also accreditation, assessment, security, verification, certification)

certification policy

(D) ISDs SHOULD NOT use this term. Instead, use either 'certificate policy' or 'certification practice statement', depending on what is meant. [RFC2828] (see also certificate, certification, public-key infrastructure)

certification practice statement (CPS)

(I) 'A statement of the practices which a certification authority employs in issuing certificates.' [ABA96, R2527] (C) A CPS is a published security policy that can help a certificate user to decide whether a certificate issued by a particular CA can be trusted enough to use in a particular application. A CPS may be (a) a declaration by a CA of the details of the computer system and practices it employs in its certificate management operations, (b) part of a contract between the CA and an entity to whom a certificate is issued, (c) a statute or regulation applicable to the CA, or (d) a combination of these types involving multiple documents. (C) A CPS is usually more detailed and procedurally oriented than certificate policy. A CPS applies to a particular CA or CA community, while a certificate policy applies across CAs or communities. A CA with a single CPS may support multiple certificate policies, which may be used for different application purposes or by different user communities. Multiple CAs, each with different CPS, may support the same certificate policy. [RFC2828] (see also certificate, certification, trust, public-key infrastructure)

certification request

(I) A algorithm-independent transaction format, defined by PCKS #10 and used in PKIX, that contains a DN, a public key, and optionally a set of attributes, collectively signed by the entity requesting certification, and sent to a CA, which transforms the request to an X.509 public-key certificate or another type of certificate. [RFC2828] (see also certificate, certification, key, public-key infrastructure)

certification service

The service of creating and assigning certificates performed by a CA and described in ISO/IEC 9594-8: 1995. [SC27] (see also public-key infrastructure)

certification test and evaluation (CT&E)

Software and hardware security tests conducted during development of an IS. [CNSSI] (see also evaluation, test)

certificaton authority (CA)

(see also public-key infrastructure)

certified information systems security professional (CISSP)

(see also computer security, system)

certified TEMPEST technical authority (CTTA)

An experienced, technically qualified U.S. Government employee who has met established certification requirements in accordance with CNSS (NSTISSC)-approved criteria and has been appointed by a U.S. Government Department or Agency to fulfill CTTA responsibilities. [CNSSI] (see also TEMPEST)

certifier

Individual responsible for making a technical judgment of the system's compliance with stated requirements, identifying and assessing the risks associated with operating the system, coordinating the certification activities, and consolidating the final certification and accreditation packages. [CNSSI] (see also accreditation, identify, risk)

certify

(I) Issue a digital certificate and thus vouch for the truth, accuracy, and binding between data items in the certificate, such as the identity of the certificate's subject and the ownership of a public key. (C) To 'certify a public key' means to issue a public-key certificate that vouches for the binding between the certificate's subject and the key. (I) The act by which a CA employs measures to verify the truth, accuracy, and binding between data items in a digital certificate. (C) A description of the measures used for verification should be included in the CA's CPS. [RFC2828] (see also certificate, identity, key, public-key infrastructure)

CGI scripts

Allows for the creation of dynamic and interactive web pages. They also tend to be the most vulnerable part of a web server (besides the underlying host security). [NSAINT] (see also common gateway interface, software, threat, world wide web)

chain letter

An electronic e-mail that either explicitly or implicitly encourages the user to forward the note to multiple recipients with no discernible end to the chain or no specific benefit to the Government for doing so [NASA] (see also user, threat)

challenge

A data item chosen at random and sent by the verifier to the claimant, that is used by the claimant, in conjunction with secret information held by the claimant, to generate a response that is sent to the verifier. [SC27] (see also challenge/response)

challenge and reply authentication

Prearranged procedure in which a subject requests authentication of another and the latter establishes validity with a correct reply. [CNSSI] (see also authentication)

Challenge Handshake Authentication Protocol (CHAP)

(I) A peer entity authentication method for PPP, using a randomly-generated challenge and requiring a matching response that depends on a cryptographic hash of the challenge and a secret key. [RFC2828] (see also cryptography, hash, key, authentication, challenge/response, security protocol)

Challenge-Response Authentication Mechanism (CRAM)

(I) IMAP4 usage: A mechanism, intended for use with IMAP4 AUTHENTICATE, by which an IMAP4 client uses a keyed hash to authenticate itself to an IMAP4 server. (C) The server includes a unique timestamp in its ready response to the client. The client replies with the client's name and the hash result of applying MD5 to a string formed from concatenating the timestamp with a shared secret that is known only to the client and the server. [RFC2828] (see also hash, key, shared secret, authentication, challenge/response)

challenge-response protocol

An authentication protocol where the Verifier sends the Claimant a challenge (usually a random value or a nonce) that the Claimant combines with a secret (such as by hashing the challenge and a shared secret together, or by applying a private key operation to the challenge) to generate a response that is sent to the Verifier. The Verifier can independently verify the response generated by the Claimant (such as by re-computing the hash of the challenge and the shared secret and comparing to the response, or performing a public key operation on the response) and establish that the Claimant possesses and controls the secret. [800-63] (see also authentication)

challenge/response

(I) An authentication process that verifies an identity by requiring correct authentication information to be provided in response to a challenge. in a system, the authentication information is usually a value that is required to be computed in response to an unpredictable challenge value. [RFC2828] A type of authentication in which a user responds correctly (usually by performing some calculation based on the time and/or the user's secret key) to a challenge (usually a numeric, unpredictable one). [AFSEC] An authentication procedure that requires calculating a correct response to an unpredictable challenge. [SRV] An authentication technique whereby a server sends an unpredictable challenge to the user, who computes a response using some form of authentication token. [IATF][misc] (see also 3-factor authentication, Extensible Authentication Protocol, IMAP4 AUTHENTICATE, POP3 AUTH, authentication, identity, tokens, user) (includes Challenge Handshake Authentication Protocol, Challenge-Response Authentication Mechanism, challenge)

change control and life cycle management

Procedures and controls that prevent unauthorized programs or modifications to an existing program from being implemented. [CIAO] (see also authorized, software development)

change management

Activities involved in (1) defining and instilling new values, attitudes, norms, and behaviors within an organization that support new ways of doing work and overcome resistance to change; (2) building consensus among customers and stakeholders on specific changes designed to better meet their needs; and (3) planning, testing, and implementing all aspects of the transition from one organizational structure or business process to another. [SRV] (see also business process, security testing, test)

channel

(I) An information transfer path within a system. [RFC2828] An information transfer path within a system. May also refer to the mechanism by which the path is effected. [AJP][TCSEC] (includes communication channel, covert channel, covert storage channel, covert timing channel, exploitable channel, internal communication channel, overt channel, security-compliant channel, trusted channel)

channel capacity

Maximum possible error-free rate, measured in bits per second, at which information can be sent along a communications path. [AJP][FCv1] (see also bandwidth, communications)

channel scanning

Changing the channel being monitored by a wireless intrusion detection and prevention system. [800-94] (see also intrusion, intrusion detection)

check character

Added character which may be used to verify the accuracy of a string by a mathematical relationship to that string. [SC27] (see also error detection code) (includes check character system)

check character system

Set of rules for generating check characters and checking strings incorporating check characters. [SC27] (see also check character, system)

check digits

A digit in an account number that is calculated from the other digits in the account number and is used to check the account number's correctness/validity. [FFIEC]

check word

Cipher text generated by cryptographic logic to detect failures in cryptography. [CNSSI] (see also cipher, cryptography) check_password

check_password

A hacking program used for cracking VMS passwords. [NSAINT] (see also passwords, attack)

checksum

(I) A value that (a) is computed by a function that is dependent on the contents of a data object and (b) is stored or transmitted together with the object, for the purpose of detecting changes in the data. (C) To gain confidence that a data object has not been changed, an entity that later uses the data can compute a checksum and compare it with the checksum that was stored or transmitted with the object. (C) Computer systems and networks employ checksums (and other mechanisms) to detect accidental changes in data. However, active wiretapping that changes data could also change an accompanying checksum to match the changed data. Thus, some checksum functions by themselves are not good countermeasures for active attacks. To protect against active attacks, the checksum function needs to be well-chosen, and the checksum result needs to be cryptographically protected. [RFC2828] A computed value that's dependent upon the contents of a packet; the value is sent with the packet when transmitted, and the receiving system computes a new 'checksum' and compares the two values to determine whether or not the data was received correctly. [misc] A value that accompanies data transferred from one place to another and helps to ensure that the data was transferred correctly [NASA] Digits or bits summed according to arbitrary rules and used to verify the integrity of data. [SRV] Value computed on data to detect error or manipulation during transmission. [CNSSI] Value computed, via some parity or hashing algorithm, on information requiring protection against error or manipulation. [IATF] (see also attack, confidence, countermeasure, cryptography, hash, networks, integrity)

Chernobyl packet

A network packet that induces a broadcast storm and network meltdown. Typically an IP Ethernet datagram that passes through a gateway with both source and destination Ether and IP address set as the respective broadcast addresses for the subnetworks being gated between. [AFSEC] Also called Kamikaze Packet. A network packet that induces a broadcast storm and network meltdown. Typically an IP Ethernet datagram that passes through a gateway with both source and destination Ethernet and IP address set as the respective broadcast addresses for the subnetworks being gated between. [NSAINT] (see also networks, threat)

chief information agency officer

official responsible for: (i) Providing advice and other assistance to the head of the executive agency and other senior management personnel of the agency to ensure that information technology is acquired and information resources are managed in a manner that is consistent with laws, Executive Orders, directives, policies, regulations, and priorities established by the head of the agency; (ii) Developing, maintaining, and facilitating the implementation of a sound and integrated information technology architecture for the agency; and (iii) Promoting the effective and efficient design and operation of all major information resources management processes for the agency, including improvements to work processes of the agency. [800-60]

chief information officer (CIO)

Agency official that provides advice and other assistance to the head of the agency and other senior management personnel to ensure that information technology is acquired and information resources are managed in a manner that implements the policies and procedures of the Congress and the priorities established by the head of the agency. Section 5125(a) of the Information Technology Management Reform Act of 1996 (ITMRA) establishes the position of Chief Information Officer (CIO) by amending Section 33506 of the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, 44 U.S.C. Chapter 35. [CIAO]

chosen-ciphertext attack

(I) A cryptanalysis technique in which the analyst tries to determine the key from knowledge of plaintext that corresponds to ciphertext selected (i.e., dictated) by the analyst. [RFC2828] (see also analysis, key, attack, cipher)

chosen-plaintext attack

(I) A cryptanalysis technique in which the analyst tries to determine the key from knowledge of ciphertext that corresponds to plaintext selected (i.e., dictated) by the analyst. [RFC2828] (see also analysis, cipher, cryptography, key, attack)

cipher

(I) A cryptographic algorithm for encryption and decryption. [RFC2828] Alternative term for encryption algorithm. [SC27] Any cryptographic system in which arbitrary symbols or groups of symbols, represent units of plain text, or in which units of plain text are rearranged, or both. [CNSSI] (see also BLACK, Blowfish, Data Authentication Algorithm, Data Encryption Algorithm, El Gamal algorithm, RED/BLACK separation, Rivest-Shamir-Adleman, Skipjack, asymmetric cryptographic technique, asymmetric encryption algorithm, block chaining, brute force, brute force attack, check word, chosen-plaintext attack, ciphony, cleartext, code, controlled access area, cryptanalysis, crypto-algorithm, cryptographic key, cryptographic synchronization, cryptographic system, cryptography, cut-and-paste attack, data encryption key, decrypt, decryption, encode, encrypt, encryption algorithm, feedback buffer, initialization value, initialization vector, initializing value, intelligent threat, key, key generator, key stream, known-plaintext attack, message authentication code vs. Message Authentication Code, mode of operation, one-time pad, one-way encryption, out-of-band, plain text, private key, public key, public-key certificate, public-key cryptography, secret-key cryptography, semantic security, superencryption, traffic encryption key, triple DES, encryption) (includes Rivest Cipher 2, Rivest Cipher 4, asymmetric cipher, asymmetric encipherment system, block cipher, block cipher key, chosen-ciphertext attack, cipher block chaining, cipher feedback, cipher text auto-key, ciphertext, ciphertext key, ciphertext-only attack, decipher, decipherment, encipher, encipherment, encipherment algorithm, n-bit block cipher, private decipherment key, private decipherment transformation, public encipherment key, public encipherment transformation, stream cipher, symmetric encipherment algorithm)

cipher block chaining (CBC)

(I) An block cipher mode that enhances electronic codebook mode by chaining together blocks of ciphertext it produces. (C) This mode operates by combining (exclusive OR-ing) the algorithm's ciphertext output block with the next plaintext block to form the next input block for the algorithm. [RFC2828] (see also block chaining, cipher)

cipher feedback (CFB)

(I) An block cipher mode that enhances electronic code book mode by chaining together the blocks of ciphertext it produces and operating on plaintext segments of variable length less than or equal to the block length. (C) This mode operates by using the previously generated ciphertext segment as the algorithm's input (i.e., by 'feeding back' the ciphertext) to generate an output block, and then combining (exclusive OR-ing) that output block with the next plaintext segment (block length or less) to form the next ciphertext segment. [RFC2828] (see also cipher, cryptography)

cipher text auto-key (CTAK)

Cryptographic logic that uses previous cipher text to generate a key stream. [CNSSI] (see also cipher, key)

ciphertext

(I) Data that has been transformed by encryption so that its semantic information content (i.e., its meaning) is no longer intelligible or directly available. (O) 'Data produced through the use of encipherment. The semantic content of the resulting data is not available.' [RFC2828] Data which has been transformed to hide its information content. [SC27] Enciphered information. [CNSSI][SC27] The encrypted form of a plaintext message of data. [SRV] The result of transforming plaintext with an encryption algorithm. Also known as cryptotext. It is encrypted (enciphered) data. [SRV] (see also encryption, cipher)

ciphertext key

(see encrypted key) (see also cipher)

ciphertext-only attack

(I) A cryptanalysis technique in which the analyst tries to determine the key solely from knowledge of intercepted ciphertext (although the analyst may also know other clues, such as the cryptographic algorithm, the language in which the plaintext was written, the subject matter of the plaintext, and some probable plaintext words.) [RFC2828] (see also analysis, key, attack, cipher)

ciphony

Process of enciphering audio information, resulting in encrypted speech. [CNSSI] (see also cipher)

circuit control officer (CCO)

circuit level gateway

One form of a firewall. Validates TCP and UDP sessions before opening a connection. Creates a handshake, and once that takes place passes everything through until the session is ended. [NSAINT] (see also circuit proxy, firewall)

circuit proxy

A proxy service that statically defines which traffic will be forwarded. The key difference between application and circuit proxies is that the latter are static and thus will always set up a connection if the DUT/SUT's rule set allows it. For example, if a firewall's rule set permits ftp connections, a circuit proxy will always forward traffic on TCP port 20 (ftp-data) even if no control connection was first established on TCP port 21 (ftp-control). [RFC2647] (see also circuit level gateway, firewall, proxy)

circuit switching

A method of opening communications lines, as through the telephone system, creating a physical link between the initiating and receiving parties. In circuit switching, the connection is made at a switching center, which physically connects the two parties and maintains an open line between them for as long as needed. Circuit switching is typically used in modem communications on the dial-up telephone network, and it is also used on a smaller scale in privately maintained communications networks. [SRV] (see also communications, networks)

civil liberties

Those individual rights and freedoms protected by the Constitution, the Bill of Rights, and Federal law and regulations. [CIAO]

claimant

A party whose identity is to be verified using an authentication protocol. [800-63] An entity that is or represents a principal for the purposes of authentication. A claimant includes the functions necessary for engaging in authentication exchanges on behalf of a principal. [SC27] (see also authentication, identity)

Clark Wilson integrity model

An approach to providing data integrity for common commercial activities, including software engineering concepts of abstract data types, separation of privilege, allocation of least privilege, and nondiscretionary access control. [SRV] (see also access control, software, integrity, model)

class 2, 3, 4, or 5

(O) U.S. Department of Defense usage: Levels of PKI assurance based on risk and value of information to be protected:

Class 2: For handling low-value information (unclassified, not mission-critical, or low monetary value) or protection of system-high information in low- to medium-risk environment.
Class 3: For handling medium-value information in low- to medium-risk environment. Typically requires identification of a system entity as a legal person, rather than merely a member of an organization.
Class 4: For handling medium- to high-value information in any environment. Typically requires identification of an entity as legal person, rather than merely a member of an organization, and a cryptographic hardware token for protection of keying material.
Class 5: For handling high-value information in a high-risk environment.

[RFC2828] (see also classified, identification, key, tokens, public-key infrastructure)

class

A generic description of an object type, consisting of instance variables and method definitions. A set of objects that share a common structure and a common behavior. Class definitions are templates from which individual objects can be created. [SRV] A grouping of families that share a common focus. [CC2][CC21][SC27]

class hierarchy

Classes can be organized naturally into structures (tree or network) called class hierarchies. In a hierarchy, a class may have zero or more superclasses above it. A class may have zero or more classes below, referred to as its subclasses. [SRV] (see also networks)

class object

Class object is a class definition. Class definitions are objects that are instances of a generic class, or metaclass. [SRV]

classification

A classification is the separation or ordering of objects (or specimens) into classes [WEBOL 1998]. Classifications that are created non-empirically are called a priori classifications [...; Simpson 1961; WEBOL 1998]. Classifications that are created empirically by looking at the data are called a posteriori classifications [...; Simpson 1961; WEBOL 1998]. [OVT] (see classification level) (see also classified)

classification level

(I) (1.) A grouping of classified information to which a hierarchical, restrictive security label is applied to increase protection of the data. (2.) The level of protection that is required to be applied to that information. [RFC2828] (see also Bell-LaPadula security model, Internet Protocol Security Option, clearance level, compartment, confinement property, controlled security mode, dedicated security mode, dominated by, dominates, downgrade, lattice model, mode of operation, modes of operation, multilevel security, multilevel security mode, non-discretionary security, regrade, risk index, sanitize, security, security label, security level, security situation, sensitivity label, system-high security mode, user) (includes default classification, secret, sensitive, sensitive but unclassified, trust level)

classified

(I) Refers to information (stored or conveyed, in any form) that is formally required by a security policy to be given data confidentiality service and to be marked with a security label (which in some cases might be implicit) to indicate its protected status. (C) The term is mainly used in government, especially in the military, although the concept underlying the term also applies outside government. In the U.S. Department of Defense, for example, it means information that has been determined pursuant to Executive Order 12958 ('Classified National Security Information', April 1995) or any predecessor order to require protection against unauthorized disclosure and is marked to indicate its classified status when in documentary form. [RFC2828] (see also BLACK, Bell-LaPadula model, Bell-LaPadula security model, CRYPTO, Data Encryption Standard, Escrowed Encryption Standard, FIPS PUB 140-1, Federal Public-key Infrastructure, Federal Standard 1027, Internet Protocol Security Option, Key Exchange Algorithm, National Institute of Standards and Technology, National Security Agency, RED, Skipjack, Trusted Computer System Evaluation Criteria, Type I cryptography, Type II cryptography, access control, advanced encryption standard, authorized, authorized person, automated security monitoring, class 2, 3, 4, or 5, clearing, compartment, compartmentalization, confidentiality, confinement property, contamination, controlled cryptographic item, controlled security mode, data aggregation, dedicated mode, dedicated security mode, dominated by, dominates, downgrade, false positive, information category, inspectable space, key-escrow system, lattice model, mandatory access control, mission critical, mode of operation, modes of operation, multilevel security, multilevel security mode, multiuser mode of operation, national security information, national security system, non-discretionary security, operations security, periods processing, personnel security, protected distribution systems, purge, regrade, risk index, safeguarding statement, sanitize, secret key, secure operating system, security clearance, security incident, security label, security level, security situation, sensitive information, sensitivity label, stratified random sample, system-high security mode, trusted computer system, type 1 product, type 2 product, security) (includes classification, classified information, default classification)

classified information

Information that has been determined pursuant to E.O. 13292 or any predecessor order to require protection against unauthorized disclosure and is marked to indicate its classified status when in documentary form. [800-60] Information determined to be top secret, secret, or confidential in the interests of national security by an appropriate Federal official acting under the provisions of Executive Order 12958 [NASA] Information that has been determined pursuant to Executive Order 12958 or any predecessor Order, or by the Atomic Energy Act of 1954, as amended, to require protection against unauthorized disclosure and is marked to indicate its classified status. [CNSSI] (see also authorized, access control, classified)

classified information spillage

Security incident that occurs whenever classified data is spilled either onto an unclassified IS or to an IS with a lower level of classification. [CNSSI]

clean system

(I) A computer system in which the operating system and application system software and files have just been freshly installed from trusted software distribution media. (C) A clean system is not necessarily in a secure state. [RFC2828] A computer which has been freshly installed with its operating system and software obtained from trusted software distribution media. As more software and configuration are added to a computer, it becomes increasingly difficult to determine if the computer is 'clean' or has been compromised by viruses, trojan horse or misconfiguration which reduces the security of the computer system. [RFC2504] (see also compromise, risk, security, software, trust, system)

clearance

Formal security determination by an authorized adjudicative office that an individual is authorized access, on a need to know basis, to a specific level of collateral classified information (TOP SECRET, SECRET, CONFIDENTIAL). [CNSSI] The official determination of a person's trustworthiness, based on a records review and past behavior. [800-37] The process of transmitting, reconciling, and in some cases, confirming payment orders or financial instrument transfer instructions prior to settlement. [FFIEC] (see security clearance) (see also access control, authorized)

clearance level

(I) The security level of information to which a security clearance authorizes a person to have access. [RFC2828] (see also access control, classification level, security, security clearance)

clearing

Removal of data from an IS, its storage devices, and other peripheral devices with storage capacity, in such a way that the data may not be reconstructed using common system capabilities (i.e., keyboard strokes); however, the data may be reconstructed using laboratory methods. Cleared media may be reused at the same classification level or at a higher level. Overwriting is one method of clearing. [CNSSI] (see also classified)

cleartext

(I) Data in which the semantic information content (i.e., the meaning) is intelligible or is directly available. (O) 'Intelligible data, the semantic content of that is available.' (D) ISDs SHOULD NOT use this term as a synonym for 'plaintext', the input to an encryption operation, because the plaintext input to encryption may itself be ciphertext that was output from another operation. [RFC2828] Alternative term for plaintext. [SC27] Information that is not encrypted. [800-82] Intelligible data, the semantic content of that is available. [AJP][FCv1] (see also encryption, cipher)

client

(I) A system entity that requests and uses a service provided by another system entity, called a 'server'. (C) Usually, the requesting entity is a computer process, and it makes the request on behalf of a human user. In some cases, the server may itself be a client of some other server. [RFC2828] Depending on the point of view, a client might be a computer system which an end-user uses to access services hosted on another computer system called a server. 'Client' may also refer to a program or a part of a system that is used by an end-user to access services provided by another program (for example, a web browser is a client that accesses pages provided by a Web Server). [RFC2504] Individual or process acting on behalf of an individual who makes requests of a guard or dedicated server. The client's requests to the guard or dedicated server can involve data transfer to, from, or through the guard or dedicated server. [CNSSI] (see also access control)

client server

The client/server model states that a client (user), whether a person or a computer program, may access authorized services from a server (host) connected anywhere on the distributed computer system. The services provided include database access, data transport, data processing, printing, graphics, electronic mail, word processing, or any other service available on the system. These services may be provided by a remote mainframe using long haul communications or within the user's workstation in real-time or delayed (batch) transaction mode. Such an open access model is required to permit true horizontal and vertical integration. [SRV] (see also access control, authorized, communications, model, automated information system)

clients, products, and business practices

an unintentional or negligent failure to meet a professional obligation to specific clients (including fiduciary and suitability requirements), or from the nature or design of a product. [2003-53c] (see also requirements, operational risk loss)

Clipper chip

(N) The Mykotronx, Inc. MYK-82, an integrated microcircuit with a cryptographic processor that implements the SKIPJACK encryption algorithm and supports key escrow. (C) The key escrow scheme for a chip involves a SKIPJACK key common to all chips that protects the unique serial number of the chip, and a second SKIPJACK key unique to the chip that protects all data encrypted by the chip. The second key is escrowed as split key components held by NIST and the U.S. Treasury Department. [RFC2828] A tamper-resistant VLSI chip designed by NSA for encrypting voice communications. It conforms to the Escrow Encryption Standard (EES) and implements the Skipjack encryption algorithm. [NSAINT] (see also cryptography, encryption, key, tamper, National Institute of Standards and Technology, National Security Agency) (includes Law Enforcement Access Field)

closed security environment

(O) U.S. Department of Defense usage: A system environment that meets both of the following conditions: (a) Application developers (including maintainers) have sufficient clearances and authorizations to provide an acceptable presumption that they have not introduced malicious logic. (b) Configuration control provides sufficient assurance that system applications and the equipment they run on are protected against the introduction of malicious logic prior to and during the operation of applications. [RFC2828] An environment in which both of the following conditions hold true: (1) Application developers (including maintainers) have sufficient clearances and authorizations to provide an acceptable presumption that they have not introduced malicious logic and (2) configuration control provides sufficient assurance that applications and the equipment are protected against the introduction of malicious logic prior to and during the operation of system applications. [AJP][NCSC/TG004] Environment providing sufficient assurance that applications and equipment are protected against the introduction of malicious logic during an IS life cycle. Closed security is based upon a system's developers, operators, and maintenance personnel having sufficient clearances, authorization, and configuration control. [CNSSI] (see also assurance, authorization, security, software development)

closed user group

A closed user group permits users belonging to a group to communicate with each other, but precludes communications with other users who are not members of the group. [AJP][TNI] (see also user)

cluster controller

A device that manages the input and output of several devices [NASA]

cluster sample

A simple random sample in which each sampling unit is a collection of elements. [SRV]

coaxial cable

A cable that consists of two conductors, a center wire inside a cylindrical shield that is grounded. The shield is typically made of braided wire and is insulated from the center wire. The shield minimizes electrical and radio-frequency interference; signals in a coaxial cable do not affect nearby components, and potential interference from these components does not affect the signal carried on the [SRV]

code

(I) noun: A system of symbols used to represent information, which might originally have some other representation. (D) ISDs SHOULD NOT use this term as synonym for the following: (a) 'cipher', 'hash', or other words that mean 'a cryptographic algorithm'; (b) 'ciphertext'; or (c) 'encrypt', 'hash', or other words that refer to applying a cryptographic algorithm. (D) ISDs SHOULD NOT this word as an abbreviation for the following terms: country code, cyclic redundancy code, Data Authentication Code, error detection code, Message Authentication Code, object code, or source code. To avoid misunderstanding, use the fully qualified term, at least at the point of first usage. [RFC2828] (COMSEC) System of communication in which arbitrary groups of letters, numbers, or symbols represent units of plain text of varying length. [CNSSI] In computer programming, a set of symbols used to represent characters and format commands and instructions in a program. Source code refers to the set of commands and instructions making up a program. [CIAO] (see also authentication, cipher, communications security, encryption, hash, message authentication code)

code amber

Significantly debilitate the ability of the Agency to fulfill its mission, critical national security or national economic security functions or provide continuity of government services. [CIAO] (see also critical infrastructures, threat)

code book

Document containing plain text and code equivalents in a systematic arrangement, or a technique of machine encryption using a word substitution technique. [CNSSI] (see also encryption)

code coverage

An analysis method that determines which parts of the software have been executed (covered) by the test case suite and which parts have not been executed and therefore may require additional attention. [OVT] (see also analysis, test)

code division multiple access (CDMA)

A digital cellular phone spread spectrum technology that assigns a code to all speech bits, sends a scrambled transmission of the encoded speech over the air and reassembles the speech to its original format. [IATF] (see also cryptography, security)

code green

No appreciable impact on Agency missions. [CIAO] (see also critical infrastructures)

code group

Group of letters, numbers, or both in a code system used to represent a plain text word, phrase, or sentence. [CNSSI]

code red

Prevent the Agency from fulfilling its mission, critical national security or national economic security functions or from providing continuity of core government services. From the perspective of an attacker, this would constitute a 'Kill.' [CIAO] (see also critical infrastructures, threat)

code vocabulary

Set of plain text words, numerals, phrases, or sentences for which code equivalents are assigned in a code system. [CNSSI]

coded switch system (CSS)

(see also system)

coding

Creating the software used by the computer from program flowcharts or pseudocode. [SRV] (see also software)

coefficient of variation

The ratio produced by dividing the standard deviation by the mean value. It provides an indication of the consistency of the data. [SRV]

cold site

An alternate site with necessary electrical and communications connections and computer equipment, but no running system, maintained by an organization to facilitate prompt resumption of service after a disaster. [CIAO] (see also hot site, disaster recovery)

cold start

Procedure for initially keying crypto-equipment. [CNSSI] (see also cryptography, user)

collaborative computing

Applications and technology (e.g. , whiteboarding, group conferencing) that allow two or more individuals to share information real time in an inter- or intra-enterprise environment. [CNSSI]

collision-resistant hash function

A hash function satisfying the following property:

it is computationally infeasible to find any two distinct inputs which map to the same output.

NOTE - Computational feasibility depends on the specific security requirements and environment. [SC27] (see also hash)

color change

(I) In a system that is being operated in periods processing mode, the act of purging all information from one processing period and then changing over to the next processing period. [RFC2828]

command and control (C2)

The exercise of authority and direction by a properly designated commander over assigned and attached forces in the accomplishment of the mission. Command and control functions are performed through an arrangement of personnel, equipment, communications, facilities, and procedures employed by a commander in planning, directing, coordinating, and controlling forces and operations in the accomplishment of the mission. [800-60] (see also C2-protect, Defense Information Infrastructure, control) (includes command and control warfare, command, control, and communications, command, control, communications and computers, command, control, communications and intelligence, global command and control system, nuclear command and control document)

command and control warfare (C2W)

The integrated use of operations security, military deception, psychological operations, electronic warfare, and physical destruction, mutually supported by intelligence, to deny information to, influence, degrade, or destroy adversary command and control capabilities, while protecting friendly command and control capabilities against such actions. Command and control warfare is an application of information operations in military operations and is a subset of information warfare. C2W is both offensive and defensive. [NSAINT] (see also security, command and control, warfare)

command authority

Individual responsible for the appointment of user representatives for a department, agency, or organization and their key ordering privileges. [CNSSI]

command, control, and communications (C3)

(see also command and control, communications)

command, control, communications and computers (C4)

(see also command and control, communications)

command, control, communications and intelligence (C3I)

(see also command and control, communications)

Commercial COMSEC

(see also evaluation, communications security)

Commercial COMSEC Endorsement Program (CCEP)

(see also communications security)

Commercial COMSEC Evaluation Program

Relationship between NSA and industry in which NSA provides the COMSEC expertise (i.e., standards, algorithms, evaluations, and guidance) and industry provides design, development, and production capabilities to produce a type 1 or type 2 product. Products developed under the CCEP may include modules, subsystems, equipment, systems, and ancillary devices. [CNSSI] (see also communications security)

commercial off the shelf (COTS)

(includes COTS software)

commercial off the shelf software

Software that a vendor has developed, tested, placed on the market, and advertised as a salable product [NASA] (see also COTS software)

commercial software

Software available through lease or purchase in the commercial market from an organization representing itself to have ownership of marketing rights in the software. [SRV] (see also software)

Committee of sponsoring organizations (of the Treadway Commission) (COSO)

Common Criteria

Provides a comprehensive, rigorous method for specifying security function and assurance requirements for products and systems. (International Standard ISO/IEC 5408, Common Criteria for Information Technology Security Evaluation [ITSEC]) [CNSSI] The Common Criteria for Information Technology Security Evaluation [CC98] is a catalog of security functional and assurance requirements and has a central role in the National Information Assurance Program. [IATF] (see also Common Criteria for Information Technology Security, assurance, computer security, information assurance)

Common Criteria for Information Technology Security (CC)

(N) 'The Common Criteria' is a standard for evaluating information technology products and systems, such as operating systems, computer networks, distributed systems, and applications. It states requirements for security functions and for assurance measures. (C) Canada, France, Germany, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, and the United States (NIST and NSA) began developing this standard in 1993, based on the European ITSEC, the Canadian Trusted Computer Product Evaluation Criteria (CTCPEC), and the U.S. 'Federal Criteria for Information Technology Security' (FC) and its precursor, the TCSEC. Work was done in cooperation with ISO/IEC Joint Technical Committee 1 (Information Technology), Subcommittee 27 (Security Techniques), Working Group 3 (Security Criteria). Version 2.1 of the Criteria is equivalent to ISO's International Standard 15408. The U.S. Government intends that this standard eventually will supersede both the TCSEC and FIPS PUB 140-1. (C) The standard addresses data confidentiality, data integrity, and availability and may apply to other aspects of security. It focuses on threats to information arising from human activities, malicious or otherwise, but may apply to non-human threats. It applies to security measures implemented in hardware, firmware, or software. It does not apply to (a) administrative security not related directly to technical security, (b) technical physical aspects of security such as electromagnetic emanation control, (c) evaluation methodology or administrative and legal framework under which the criteria may be applied, (d) procedures for use of evaluation results, or (e) assessment of inherent qualities of cryptographic algorithms. [RFC2828] Evolving international security evaluation criteria being developed by the US, Canada, the UK, Germany, and France. [AJP] (see also Common Criteria, National Security Agency, assessment, availability, confidentiality, cryptography, emanation, emanations security, evaluation, integrity, networks, software, threat, trust, National Institute of Standards and Technology, computer security, security) (includes Common Criteria for Information Technology Security Evaluation, National Information Assurance Partnership)

Common Criteria for Information Technology Security Evaluation (CCITSE)

The Common Criteria for Information Technology Security Evaluation is a joint effort between North America and certain European countries to develop a single set of international criteria for use as the basis for evaluation of IT security properties. The requirements can also be used, in conjunction with a risk assessment, for the selection of appropriate IT security measures. [misc] (see also assessment, risk, Common Criteria for Information Technology Security, computer security, criteria, evaluation) (includes Canadian Trusted Computer Product Evaluation Criteria, European Information Technology Security Evaluation Criteria, Federal Criteria for Information Technology Security, Trusted Computer System Evaluation Criteria, assurance component, common criteria version 1.0, common criteria version 2.0, component dependencies, component extensibility, component hierarchy, component operations, evaluation assurance level, functional component, protection profile, security target, trusted gateway)

Common Criteria Testing Laboratory (CCTL)

Within the context of the NIAP Common Criteria Evaluation and Validation Scheme, an IT security evaluation facility, accredited by the U.S. National Voluntary Laboratory Accreditation Program (NVLAP) and approved by the NIAP Oversight Body to conduct CC-based evaluations. [NIAP] (see also accreditation, computer security, evaluation, National Information Assurance Partnership, security testing, test) (includes Monitoring of Evaluations, Scope of Accreditation, Validation Certificate, approved technologies list, approved test methods list, deliverables list, designated laboratories list, designating authority, designation policy, evaluation technical report, evaluation work plan, observation reports)

Common Criteria Testing Program (CCTP)

NIAP program described in the NIAP Common Criteria Evaluation and Validation Scheme [NIAP] (see also evaluation, National Information Assurance Partnership, security testing, test)

common criteria version 1.0 (CC1)

Common Criteria Editorial Board, Common Criteria for Information Technology Security Evaluation, Version 1.0, 96/01/31. [CC1] (see also computer security, Common Criteria for Information Technology Security Evaluation)

common criteria version 2.0 (CC2)

Common Criteria for Information Technology Security Evaluation, Version 2.0, May, 1998. [CC2] (see also computer security, Common Criteria for Information Technology Security Evaluation)

common data security

A set of layered security services that address communications and data security architecture (CDSA) problems in the emerging PC business space. The CDSA consists of three basic layers: A set of system security services, The Common Security Services Manager (CSSM), and Add-in Security Modules (CSPs, TPs, CLs, DLs). [Intel] (see also common data security architecture)

common data security architecture (CDSA)

Intel's multi-API security framework for encryption and authentication. [Intel] (see also authentication) (includes common data security, common security, common security services manager, cryptographic service, cryptographic service providers)

Common Evaluation Methodology (CEM)

common fill device (CFD)

One of a family of devices developed to read-in, transfer, or store key. [CNSSI]

common gateway interface (CGI)

CGI is the method that Web servers use to allow interaction between servers and programs. [NSAINT] The CGI programs are insecure programs that allow the web server to execute an external program when particular uniform resource locators (URLs) are accessed. [SRV] (see also access control, world wide web) (includes CGI scripts)

common interswitch rekeying key (CIRK)

(see also key, rekey)

Common IP Security Option (CIPSO)

(see also security)

common name

(I) A alphanumeric string that (a) may be a part of the X.500 DN of a Directory object ('commonName' attribute), (b) is a (possibly ambiguous) name by which the object is commonly known in some limited scope (such as an organization), and (c) conforms to the naming conventions of the country or culture with which it is associated. X.509 public-key certificate.) (C) For example, 'Dr. E. F. Moore', 'The United Nations', or '12-th Floor Laser Printer'. [RFC2828] (see also certificate, key, public-key infrastructure)

common security

The central layer of the Common Data Security Architecture (CDSA) Services Manager defines six key service components: Cryptographic Services Manager, Trust Policy Services Manager, Certificate Library Services Manager, Data Storage Library Services Manager, Integrity Services Manager, and Security Context Manager. The CSSM binds together all the security services required by PC applications. In particular, it facilitates linking digital certificates to cryptographic actions and trust protocols. [Intel] (see also integrity, public-key infrastructure, trust, common data security architecture)

common security services manager (CSSM)

common vulnerabilities and exposures

A simplified dictionary/nomenclature being developed through collaborative effort of the cyber community in order to provide common names for publicly known vulnerabilities (design flaws) and exposures (risky services). [CIAO] (see also exposure, vulnerability)

communication and data security architecture (CDSA)

(see common data security architecture)

communication channel

The physical media and devices that provide the means for transmitting information from one component of a network to (one or more) other components. [AJP][TNI] (see also networks, channel, communications) (includes internal communication channel)

communication equipment room (CER)

(see also communications)

communication link

The physical means of connecting one location to another for the purpose of transmitting and/or receiving data. [AJP][TNI] (see also communications)

communications

A family of security controls in the technical class dealing with ensuring that communications are appropriately protected by encryption or PDSs, that controlled interfaces are installed and appropriately configured as required to protect the IT system, and that dial-in and remote access is appropriately controlled, protected, and monitored. [800-37] (see also CCI equipment, Integrated services digital network, OSI architecture, access control, active wiretapping, bandwidth, bit error rate, cellular transmission, channel capacity, circuit switching, client server, cross-talk, dial-up, dial-up line, digital telephony, distributed processing, electronic commerce, electronic data interchange, extraction resistance, frequency hopping, gateway, help desk, host, information processing standard, information superhighway, information technology, information technology system, interface, internet control message protocol, internet protocol, internetwork, line conditioning, line conduction, link, local loop, local-area network, message indicator, multicast, network architecture, network configuration, network device, network management architecture, network management protocol, network weaving, open system interconnection model, operations code, outage, privacy system, protocol, protocol suite, remote access, remote terminal emulation, secure hypertext transfer protocol, secure socket layer, signaling, simple network management protocol, subnetwork, telecommuting, teleprocessing, trusted gateway, tunnel, user data protocol, virtual private network, wide-area network, communications security, networks) (includes asynchronous communication, command, control, and communications, command, control, communications and computers, command, control, communications and intelligence, communication channel, communication equipment room, communication link, communications cover, communications electronics operating instruction, communications profile, communications protocol, data communications, defense communications system, imitative communications, internal communication channel, private communication technology, protected communications, telecommunications)

communications cover

Concealing or altering of characteristic communications patterns to hide information that could be of value to an adversary. [CNSSI] (see also communications)

communications deception

Deliberate transmission, retransmission, or alteration of communications to mislead an adversary's interpretation of the communications. [CNSSI] (see also assurance, security)

communications electronics operating instruction (CEOI)

(see also communications)

communications profile

Analytic model of communications associated with an organization or activity. The model is prepared from a systematic examination of communications content and patterns, the functions they reflect, and the communications security measures applied. [CNSSI] (see also communications security, communications)

communications protocol

A set of rules or standards designed to enable computers to connect with one another and to exchange information with as little error as possible. [SRV] (see also communications)

communications security (COMSEC)

(I) Measures that implement and assure security services in a communication system, particularly those that provide data confidentiality and data integrity and that authenticate communicating entities. (C) Usually understood to include cryptographic algorithms and key management methods and processes, devices that implement them, and the life cycle management of keying material and devices. [RFC2828] Measures and controls taken to deny unauthorized individuals information derived from telecommunications and to ensure the authenticity of such telecommunications. Communications security includes cryptosecurity, transmission security, emission security, and physical security of COMSEC material. [CNSSI] Measures and controls taken to deny unauthorized persons information derived from telecommunications and to ensure the authenticity of such telecommunications. [IATF] Measures taken to deny unauthorized persons information derived from telecommunications of an entity concerning national or organizational security, and to ensure the authenticity of such telecommunications. Communications security includes crypto-security, transmission security, emission security, and physical security of communications security material and information. [AJP] Measures taken to deny unauthorized persons information derived from telecommunications of the U.S. Government concerning national security, and to ensure the authenticity of such telecommunications. Communications security includes crypto-security, transmission security, emission security, and physical security of communications security material and information. [NCSC/TG004] (see also BLACK, CCI assembly, CCI component, CCI equipment, CRYPTO, FIPS PUB 140-1, Federal Public-key Infrastructure, RED, RED/BLACK separation, Secure Data Exchange, TSEC nomenclature, access control list, accountability, accounting legend code, accounting number, alert, approval/accreditation, audit trail, authentication, authorized, central office of record, code, communications profile, computer emergency response team, confidentiality, cryptography, data transfer device, design controlled spare parts, direct shipment, drop accountability, electronic attack, electronic key management system, electronically generated key, element, encryption algorithm, fill device, fixed COMSEC facility, frequency hopping, incident, information security, integrity, key, key distribution center, limited maintenance, local management device/key processor, long title, mandatory modification, network sponsor, optional modification, procedural security, protective packaging, repair action, security architecture, security incident, security net control station, short title, supersession, systems security steering group, test key, time-compliance date, transmission security, trusted path, two-person integrity, updating, user representative, Automated Information System security) (includes COMSEC Material Control System, COMSEC Parent Switch, COMSEC Resources Program, COMSEC Subordinate Switch, COMSEC Utility Program, COMSEC account, COMSEC account audit, COMSEC aid, COMSEC boundary, COMSEC chip set, COMSEC control program, COMSEC custodian, COMSEC end-item, COMSEC equipment, COMSEC facility, COMSEC incident, COMSEC insecurity, COMSEC manager, COMSEC material, COMSEC modification, COMSEC module, COMSEC monitoring, COMSEC profile, COMSEC survey, COMSEC system data, COMSEC training, Commercial COMSEC, Commercial COMSEC Endorsement Program, Commercial COMSEC Evaluation Program, Internet Protocol security, National COMSEC Advisory Memorandum, National COMSEC Information Memorandum, National COMSEC Instruction, advanced self-protection jammer, alternate COMSEC custodian, anti-jam, anti-jamming, communications, communications security element, cryptosecurity, emissions security, meaconing, intrusion, jamming, and interference, network security, network security architecture, network security architecture and design, network security officer, subcommittee on telecommunications security, telecommunications security)

communications security element (CSE)

(see also communications security)

community risk

Probability that a particular vulnerability will be exploited within an interacting population and adversely impact some members of that population. [CNSSI] (see also risk)

community string

(I) A community name in the form of an octet string that serves as cleartext password in SNMP version 1. [RFC2828] (see also passwords)

comparisons

The process of comparing a biometric with a previously stored reference. See also 'Identification' and 'Identity Verification'. [GSA] (see also identity, biometrics)

compartment

(1) A designation applied to a type of sensitive information, indicating the special handling procedures to be used for the information and the general class of people who may have access to the information. It can refer to the designation of information belonging to one or more categories. (2) A class of information in the U.S. Government that has need-to-know access controls beyond those normally provided for access to Confidential, Secret, or Top Secret information. [AJP] (I) A grouping of sensitive information items that require special access controls beyond those normally provided for the basic classification level of the information. (C) The term is usually understood to include the special handling procedures to be used for the information. [RFC2828] A class of information that has need-to-know access controls beyond those normally provided for access to Confidential, Secret or Top Secret information. [NCSC/TG004] A designation applied to a type of sensitive information, indicating the special handling procedures to be used for the information and the general class of people who may have access to the information. It can refer to the designation of information belonging to one or more categories. [TNI] (see also access control, classification level, classified)

compartment key (CK)

(see also key)

compartmentalization

A nonhierarchical grouping of sensitive information used to control access to data more finely than with hierarchical security classification alone. [CNSSI] (see also access control, classified)

compartmented mode

Mode of operation wherein each user with direct or indirect access to a system, its peripherals, remote terminals, or remote hosts has all of the following: (a) valid security clearance for the most restricted information processed in the system; (b) formal access approval and signed nondisclosure agreements for that information which a user is to have access; and (c) valid need-to-know for information which a user is to have access. [CNSSI] (see also access control, user)

compensating security controls

The management, operational, and technical controls (i.e., safeguards or countermeasures) employed by an organization in lieu of the recommended controls in the low, moderate, or high baselines described in NIST Special Publication 800-53, that provide equivalent or comparable protection for an information system. [800-53] (see also countermeasure, control, security)

competition

Activity of two or more entities taken in consideration of each other to achieve differing objectives. The commercial analogue of military combat. [CIAO]

compiled viruses

A virus that has had its source code converted by a compiler program into a format that can be directly executed by an operating system. [800-83] (see also virus)

compiler

A computer program that translates large sections of source code into object code the computer can understand. [SRV] (see also source code, software development)

completeness

The degree to which all of the software's required functions and design constraints are present and fully developed in the software requirements, software design, and code. [SRV] (see also software)

compliance-based

A structured, top-down approach to IT security wherein each system must meet the same standards set program-wide. [NASA] (see also security)

component

(1) A device or set of devices consisting of hardware, along with its firmware and/or software, that performs a specific function on a computer communications network. A component is a part of the larger system and may itself consist of other components. Examples include modems, telecommunications controllers, message switches, technical control devices, host computers, gateways, communications subnets, and so on. (2) An identifiable and self-contained portion of a Target of Evaluation that is subjected to security evaluation. (3) An organization that is part of a larger organization, e.g. a U.S. Defense Component. (4) A requirement that is part of a larger set of requirements that may be called a package. e.g. protection profiles are assembled from components. Groups of components can be assembled into predefined packages. [AJP] A device or set of devices, consisting of hardware, along with its firmware, and/or software that performs a specific function on a computer communications network. A component is a part of the larger system, and may itself consist of other components. Examples include modems, telecommunications controllers, message switches, technical control devices, host computers, gateways, communications subnets, etc. [TNI] An IT assembly, or part thereof, that is essential to the operation of some larger IT assembly and is an immediate subdivision of the IT assembly to which it belongs, (e.g., a trusted guard, biometrics device, or firewall would be a component of a computer system.). [800-37] An element of a large system, such as an identity card, PIV Issuer, PIV Registrar, card reader, or identity verification support, within the PIV system. [GSA] An identifiable and self-contained portion of a TOE that is subjected to security evaluation. [JTC1/SC27] An identifiable and self-contained portion of a Target of Evaluation. [ITSEC] An object of testing. An integrated assembly of one or more units and/or associated data objects or one or more components and/or associated data objects. By this (recursive) definition, a component can be anything from a unit to a system. [OVT] The smallest selectable set of elements that may be included in a PP, an ST, or a package. [CC2][CC21][SC27] (see also identity, networks, security testing, software, test, component dependencies, component extensibility, component hierarchy, component operations, component reference monitor, construction of TOE requirements, target of evaluation) (includes assurance component, basic component, development assurance component, evaluation assurance component, functional component, functional unit, network component)

component dependencies

Dependencies may exist between components. Dependencies arise when a component is not self-sufficient and relies upon the presence of another component. Dependencies may exist between functional components, between assurance components and between functional and assurance components. [CC1] (see also assurance, Common Criteria for Information Technology Security Evaluation) (includes component)

component extensibility

The addition to an ST of functional or assurance requirement not defined in the common criteria (CC). Note that the use of such extensions requires the prior approval of a certification body, and may be a barrier to the mutual recognition of evaluation results. [CC1] (see also assurance, Common Criteria for Information Technology Security Evaluation) (includes component, security target)

component hierarchy

The hierarchy of functional and assurance requirements, provided by the Common Criteria is: Class => Family => Component => Element. [CC1] (see also assurance, Common Criteria for Information Technology Security Evaluation) (includes component)

component operations

Common criteria (CC) components may be used exactly as defined in the common criteria, or they may be tailored through the use of permitted operations to meet a specific security policy or counter a specific threat. Each component identifies and defines any permitted operations, the circumstances under which it may be applied and the results of the application. Permitted operations are: assignment; selection and refinement. [CC1] (see also Common Criteria for Information Technology Security Evaluation) (includes component, security policy, threat)

component reference monitor

An access-control concept that refers to an abstract machine that mediates all access to objects within a component by subjects within the component. [AJP][TNI] (see also access control) (includes component, object, subject)

compromise

A violation (or suspected violation) of a security policy, in which an unauthorized disclosure of, or loss of control over, sensitive information may have occurred. [GSA] A violation of the security policy of a system such that unauthorized disclosure of sensitive information may have occurred. [NCSC/TG004] A violation of the security policy of a system such that unauthorized disclosure of sensitive information may have occurred. The unauthorized disclosure, modification, substitution, or use of sensitive data (including plaintext cryptographic keys and other critical security parameters). [SRV] A violation of the security system such that an unauthorized disclosure of sensitive information may have occurred. [AJP][TNI] An intrusion into a computer system where unauthorized disclosure, modification or destruction of sensitive information may have occurred [NSAINT] An intrusion into a computer system where unauthorized disclosure, modification or destruction of sensitive information may have occurred. A violation of the security policy of a system such that unauthorized disclosure of sensitive information may have occurred. [OVT] Disclosure of information of data to unauthorized persons, or a violation of the security policy of a system in which unauthorized intentional or unintentional disclosure, modification, destruction, or loss of an object may have occurred. [IATF] Disclosure of information to unauthorized persons, or a violation of the security policy of a system in which unauthorized intentional or unintentional disclosure, modification, destruction, or loss of an object may have occurred. [GSA] The unauthorized disclosure, modification, substitution or use of sensitive data (including plaintext cryptographic keys and other critical security parameters). [FIPS140] Type of incident where information is disclosed to unauthorized individuals or a violation of the security policy of a system in which unauthorized intentional or unintentional disclosure, modification, destruction, or loss of an object may have occurred. [CNSSI] (see also DNS spoofing, TEMPEST, TEMPEST shielded, TEMPEST test, application server attack, attack, authorized, benign, clean system, control zone, cost-risk analysis, critical security parameters, cryptography, emanations security, emissions security, environmental failure protection, environmental failure testing, file integrity checking, flaw hypothesis methodology, insider, intrusion, invalidity date, key, leapfrog attack, malware, multilevel device, object, ohnosecond, payment gateway certification authority, privacy, protective technologies, public-key forward secrecy, revocation, revocation date, rootkit, security, security audit, security event, security incident, security management infrastructure, suppression measure, tri-homed, trusted recovery, vulnerability, vulnerability assessment, warehouse attack, incident) (includes areas of potential compromise, compromised key list, compromising emanation performance requirement, compromising emanations, data compromise, security compromise)

compromised key list (CKL)

(O) MISSI usage: A list that identifies keys for which unauthorized disclosure or alteration may have occurred. (C) A CKL is issued by an CA, like a CRL is issued. But a CKL lists only KMIDs, not subjects that hold the keys, and not certificates in which the keys are bound. [RFC2828] A list with the Key Material Identifier (KMID) of every user with compromised key material; key material is compromised when a card and its personal identification number (PIN) are uncontrolled or the user has become a threat to the security of the computer system. [IATF] (see also authorized, certificate, identification, compromise, key, multilevel information systems security initiative, public-key infrastructure, threat, user)

compromising emanation performance requirement (CEPR)

(see also compromise, emanations security, risk)

compromising emanations

Unintentional data-related or intelligence-bearing signals that, if intercepted and analyzed, disclose the information transmission received, handled, or otherwise processed by any information processing equipment. [AJP][NCSC/TG004] Unintentional signals that, if intercepted and analyzed, would disclose the information transmitted, received, handled, or otherwise processed by information systems equipment. [CNSSI] (see also TEMPEST, compromise, emanations security, threat)

computer

A machine that can be programmed in code to execute a set of instructions (program). In an IS, the term 'computer' usually refers to the components inside the case: the motherboard, memory chips, and internal storage disk(s). [CIAO] (see also automated information system)

computer abuse

Intentional or reckless misuse, alteration, disruption, or destruction of information processing resources. [CNSSI] The misuse, alteration, disruption, or destruction of data processing resources. The key aspect is that it is intentional and improper. [AJP][NCSC/TG004] The willful or negligent unauthorized activity that affects the availability, confidentiality, or integrity of computer resources. Computer abuse includes fraud, embezzlement, theft, malicious damage, unauthorized use, denial of service, and misappropriation. [AFSEC][NSAINT] (see also authorized, availability, confidentiality, denial of service, fraud, integrity, automated information system, threat)

computer architecture

The set of layers and protocols (including formats and standards that different hardware and software must comply with to achieve stated objectives) which define a computer system. Computer architecture features can be available to application programs and system programmers in several modes, including a protected mode. e.g. the system-level features of computer architecture may include: (1) memory management, (2) protection, (3) multitasking, (4) input/output, (5) exceptions and multiprocessing, (6) initialization, (7) coprocessing and multiprocessing, (8) debugging, and (9) cache management. [AJP] (see also software, security architecture) (includes object)

computer cryptography

The use of a crypto-algorithm in a computer, microprocessor, or microcomputer to perform encryption or decryption to protect information or to authenticate users, sources, or information. [AJP][NCSC/TG004] Use of a crypto-algorithm program by a computer to authenticate or encrypt/decrypt information. [CNSSI] (see also authentication)

computer emergency response team (CERT)

(I) An organization that studies computer and network INFOSEC in order to provide incident response services to victims of attacks, publish alerts concerning vulnerabilities and threats, and offer other information to help improve computer and network security. (C) For example, the CERT Coordination Center at Carnegie-Mellon University (sometimes called 'the' CERT) and the Computer Incident Advisory Capability. [RFC2828] A federally funded research and development center at Carnegie Mellon University. They focus on Internet security vulnerabilities, provide incident response services to sites that have been the victims of attack, publish security alerts, research security and survivability in wide-area-networked computing, and develop site security information. They can be found at www.cert.org. [IATF] An organization chartered by an information system owner to coordinate and/or accomplish necessary actions in response to computer emergency incidents that threaten the availability or integrity of its information systems. (DoDD 5160.54) [CIAO] Formed by ARPA in 1988 to take proactive steps to alert people to computer security issues. [misc] (see also Computer Incident Advisory Capability, availability, communications security, computer security, computer security incident response team, incident, integrity, internet, networks, threat, security) (includes Forum of Incident Response and Security Teams, computer emergency response teams' coordination center)

computer emergency response team/ coordination center

An element of the Networked Systems Survivability Program of the Software Engineering Institute at Carnegie Mellon University. It keeps track of attacks on the Internet and issues advisories. [CIAO] (see also attack, internet)

computer emergency response teams' coordination center

computer forensics

The practice of gathering, retaining, and analyzing computer-related data for investigative purposes in a manner that maintains the integrity of the data. [800-61] (see also integrity)

computer fraud

Computer-related crimes involving deliberate misrepresentation or alteration of data in order to obtain something of value. [AFSEC][NSAINT] Computer-related crimes involving deliberate misrepresentation, alteration, or disclosure of data to obtain something of value (usually for monetary gain). A computer system must have been involved in the perpetration or cover-up of the act or series of acts. A computer system might have been involved through improper manipulation of input data, output or results, applications programs, data files, computer operations, communications, or computer hardware, systems software, or firmware. [AJP][NCSC/TG004] Misrepresentation, alteration, or disclosure of data in order to obtain something of value (usually for monetary gain). A computer system must have been involved in the perpetration or coverup of the act or series of acts. A computer system might have been involved through improper manipulation of input data; output or results; applications programs; data files; computer operations; communications; or computer hardware, systems software, or firmware. [SRV] (see also software, fraud)

Computer Incident Advisory Capability (CIAC)

(N) A computer emergency response team in the U.S. Department of Energy. [RFC2828] (see also computer emergency response team, incident)

computer incident assessment capability (CIAC)

(see also assessment, incident)

computer intrusion

An incident of unauthorized access to data or an Automated Information System (AIS). [IATF] (see also access control, authorized, unauthorized access, attack, incident, intrusion)

computer network

(I) A collection of host computers together with the subnetwork or internetwork through which they can exchange data. (C) This definition is intended to cover systems of all sizes and types, ranging from the complex Internet to a simple system composed of a personal computer dialing in as a remote terminal of another computer. [RFC2828] A set of computers that are connected and able to exchange data. [CIAO] (see also internet, networks)

computer network attack (CNA)

Operations to disrupt, deny, degrade, or destroy information resident in computers and computer networks, or the computers and networks themselves. (DODD S-3600.1 of 9 Dec 96) [NSAINT] (see also attack, networks)

computer network defense (CND)

(see also networks)

computer operations, audit, and security technology (COAST)

is a multiple project, multiple investigator laboratory in computer security research in the Computer Sciences Department at Purdue University. It functions with close ties to researchers and engineers in major companies and government agencies. Its research is focused on real-world needs and limitations, with a special focus on security for legacy computing systems. [NSAINT] (see also computer security, audit)

computer oracle and password system (COPS)

A computer network monitoring system for Unix machines. Software tool for checking security on shell scripts and C programs. Checks for security weaknesses and provides warnings. [NSAINT] (see also networks, passwords, software, security software, system)

computer related controls

A comprehensive name to include both general controls and application controls. These controls help ensure the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of data. [SRV] (see also availability, confidentiality, integrity, security controls)

computer related crime

Any illegal act for which knowledge of computer technology is involved for its investigation, perpetration, or prosecution. [AFSEC] (see also threat)

computer security (COMPUSEC)

computer security emergency response team (CERT)

(see also computer security)

computer security incident

Any intrusion or attempted intrusion into a computer system. Incidents can include probes of multiple computer systems. [AFSEC] Any intrusion or attempted intrusion into an automated information system (AIS). Incidents can include probes of multiple computer systems. [NSAINT] See incident. [CNSSI] (see also intrusion, computer security, incident)

computer security incident response capability (CSIRC)

(see also computer security, incident)

computer security incident response team (CIRT) (CSIRT)

(I) An organization 'that coordinates and supports the response to security incidents that involve sites within a defined constituency.' (C) To be considered a CSIRT, an organization must do as follows:

Provide a (secure) channel for receiving reports about suspected security incidents.
Provide assistance to members of its constituency in handling the incidents.
Disseminate incident-related information to its constituency and other involved parties.

[RFC2828] A capability set up for the purpose of assisting in responding to computer security-related incidents; also called a Computer Incident Response Team (CIRT) or a CIRC (Computer Incident Response Center, Computer Incident Response Capability). [800-61] (see also computer emergency response team, computer security, incident)

computer security intrusion

Any event of unauthorized access or penetration to a computer system. [AFSEC] Any event of unauthorized access or penetration to an automated information system (AIS). [NSAINT] (see also access control, authorized, penetration, unauthorized access, computer security, intrusion)

computer security object

(I) The definition or representation of a resource, tool, or mechanism used to maintain a condition of security in computerized environments. Includes many elements referred to in standards that are either selected or defined by separate user communities. [RFC2828] (see also security software, computer security)

Computer Security Objects Register (CSOR)

(N) A service operated by NIST is establishing a catalog for computer security objects to provide stable object definitions identified by unique names. The use of this register will enable the unambiguous specification of security parameters and algorithms to be used in secure data exchanges. (C) The CSOR follows registration guidelines established by the international standards community and ANSI. Those guidelines establish minimum responsibilities for registration authorities and assign the top branches of an international registration hierarchy. Under that international registration hierarchy the CSOR is responsible for the allocation of unique identifiers under the branch {joint-iso-ccitt(2) country(16) us(840) gov(101) csor(3)}. [RFC2828] (see also National Institute of Standards and Technology, computer security)

computer security subsystem

A device designed to provide limited computer security features in a larger system environment. [AJP][NCSC/TG004] Hardware/software designed to provide computer security features in a larger system environment. [CNSSI] (see also computer security, system)

computer security technical vulnerability reporting program (CSTVRP)

A program that focuses on technical vulnerabilities in commercially available hardware, firmware, and software products acquired by DoD. CSTVRP provides for the reporting, cataloging, and discreet dissemination of technical vulnerability and corrective measure information to DoD components on a need-to-know basis. [NCSC/TG004] A program that focuses on technical vulnerabilities in commercially available hardware, firmware, and software products acquired by the Federal Government. CSTVRP provides for the reporting, cataloging, and discreet dissemination of technical vulnerability and corrective measure information to Defense Components on a need-to-know basis. [AJP] (see also login, software, computer security, vulnerability)

computer-aided software engineering (CASE)

The creation of software using well-defined design techniques and development methodology, supported by computer-based automation tools. [SRV] (see also software)

computer-assisted audit technique (CAAT)

A collection of computer programs, such as generalized audit software, test-data generators, sampling programs, utility software aids, or customized audit programs. [SRV] (see also software, test, audit)

computing environment

Workstation or server (host) and its operating system, peripherals, and applications. [CNSSI]

computing security methods

Computing security methods are security safeguards implemented within the IS, using the networking, hardware, software, and firmware of the IS. This includes the following: (1) the hardware, firmware, and software that implements security functionality and (2) the design, implementation, and verification techniques used to ensure that system assurance requirements are satisfied. [SRV] Computing security methods are security safeguards implemented within the IT, using the networking, hardware, software, and firmware of the IT. This includes (1) the hardware, firmware, and software that implements security functionality and (2) the design, implementation, and verification techniques used to ensure that system assurance requirements are satisfied. [800-33] (see also assurance, networks, requirements, software, computer security)

COMSEC account

Administrative entity, identified by an account number, used to maintain accountability, custody, and control of COMSEC material. [CNSSI] (see also communications security)

COMSEC account audit

Examination of the holdings, records, and procedures of a COMSEC account ensuring all accountable COMSEC material is properly handled and safeguarded. [CNSSI] (see also communications security)

COMSEC aid

COMSEC material that assists in securing telecommunications and is required in the production, operation, or maintenance of COMSEC systems and their components. COMSEC keying material, callsign/frequency systems, and supporting documentation, such as operating and maintenance manuals, are examples of COMSEC aids. [CNSSI] (see also key, communications security)

COMSEC assembly

Group of parts, elements, subassemblies, or circuits that are removable items of COMSEC equipment. [CNSSI]

COMSEC boundary

Definable perimeter encompassing all hardware, firmware, and software components performing critical COMSEC functions, such as key generation, handling, and storage. [CNSSI] (see also key, communications security)

COMSEC chip set

Collection of NSA approved microchips. [CNSSI] (see also communications security)

COMSEC control program

Computer instructions or routines controlling or affecting the externally performed functions of key generation, key distribution, message encryption/decryption, or authentication. [CNSSI] (see also authentication, encryption, key, communications security)

COMSEC custodian

Individual designated by proper authority to be responsible for the receipt, transfer, accounting, safeguarding, and destruction of COMSEC material assigned to a COMSEC account. [CNSSI] (see also communications security)

COMSEC demilitarization

Process of preparing COMSEC equipment for disposal by extracting all CCI, classified, or CRYPTO marked components for their secure destruction, as well as defacing and disposing of the remaining equipment hulk. [CNSSI]

COMSEC element

Removable item of COMSEC equipment, assembly, or subassembly; normally consisting of a single piece or group of replaceable parts. [CNSSI]

COMSEC end-item

Equipment or combination of components ready for use in a COMSEC application. [CNSSI] (see also communications security)

COMSEC equipment

Equipment designed to provide security to telecommunications by converting information to a form unintelligible to an unauthorized interceptor and, subsequently, by reconverting such information to its original form for authorized recipients; also, equipment designed specifically to aid in, or as an essential element of, the conversion process. COMSEC equipment includes crypto-equipment, crypto-ancillary equipment, cryptoproduction equipment, and authentication equipment. [CNSSI] (see also authentication, authorized, cryptography, communications security)

COMSEC facility

Authorized and approved space used for generating, storing, repairing, or using COMSEC material. [CNSSI] (see also authorized, communications security)

COMSEC incident

See incident. [CNSSI] (see also communications security, incident)

COMSEC insecurity

COMSEC incident that has been investigated, evaluated, and determined to jeopardize the security of COMSEC material or the secure transmission of information. [CNSSI] (see also incident, communications security)

COMSEC manager

Individual who manages the COMSEC resources of an organization. [CNSSI] (see also communications security)

COMSEC material

Item designed to secure or authenticate telecommunications. COMSEC material includes, but is not limited to key, equipment, devices, documents, firmware, or software that embodies or describes cryptographic logic and other items that perform COMSEC functions. [CNSSI] (see also control system, cryptography, key, communications security)

COMSEC Material Control System (CMCS)

Logistics and accounting system through which COMSEC material marked 'CRYPTO' is distributed, controlled, and safeguarded. Included are the COMSEC central offices of record, cryptologistic depots, and COMSEC accounts. COMSEC material other than key may be handled through the CMCS. [CNSSI] (see also communications security, control system, system)

COMSEC modification

See information systems security equipment modification. [CNSSI] (see also communications security, information systems security equipment modification)

COMSEC module

Removable component that performs COMSEC functions in a telecommunications equipment or system. [CNSSI] (see also communications security)

COMSEC monitoring

Act of listening to, copying, or recording transmissions of one's own official telecommunications to analyze the degree of security. [CNSSI] (see also communications security)

COMSEC Parent Switch (CPS)

(see also communications security)

COMSEC profile

Statement of COMSEC measures and materials used to protect a given operation, system, or organization. [CNSSI] (see also communications security)

COMSEC Resources Program (CRP)

(see also communications security)

COMSEC Subordinate Switch (CSS)

(see also communications security)

COMSEC survey

Organized collection of COMSEC and communications information relative to a given operation, system, or organization. [CNSSI] (see also communications security)

COMSEC system data

Information required by a COMSEC equipment or system to enable it to properly handle and control key. [CNSSI] (see also key, communications security)

COMSEC training

Teaching of skills relating to COMSEC accounting, use of COMSEC aids, or installation, use, maintenance, and repair of COMSEC equipment. [CNSSI] (see also communications security)

COMSEC Utility Program (CUP)

(see also communications security)

concealment system

A method of achieving confidentiality in which sensitive information is hidden by embedding it in irrelevant data. [AJP][NCSC/TG004] (see also confidentiality, security, system)

concept of operations (CONOP)

Describes how the system would be used to accomplish objectives. [IATF] Document detailing the method, act, process, or effect of using an IS. [CNSSI] Document detailing the method, act, process, or effect of using an IT system. [CIAO] (see also internet, security)

concurrency control

A controlling mechanism that prevents multiple users from executing inconsistent actions on the database. [SRV]

concurrent connections

The aggregate number of simultaneous connections between hosts across the DUT/SUT, or between hosts and the DUT/SUT. The number of concurrent connections a firewall can support is just as important a metric for some users as maximum bit forwarding rate. While 'connection' describes only a state and not necessarily the transfer of data, concurrency assumes that all existing connections are in fact capable of transferring data. If a data cannot be sent over a connection, that connection should not be counted toward the number of concurrent connections. Further, this definition assumes that the ability (or lack thereof) to transfer data on a given connection is solely the responsibility of the DUT/SUT. For example, a TCP connection that a DUT/SUT has left in a FIN_WAIT_2 state clearly should not be counted. But another connection that has temporarily stopped transferring data because some external device has restricted the flow of data is not necessarily defunct. The tester should take measures to isolate changes in connection state to those effected by the DUT/SUT. [RFC2647] (see also test, connection)

confidence

A belief that a deliverable will perform in the way expected or claimed (i.e. properly, trustworthy, enforce security policy, reliably, effectively). [SC27] (see also IT Security Evaluation Criteria, IT Security Evaluation Methodology, Monitoring of Evaluations, National Information Assurance Partnership, assurance level, assurance profile, audit, authentication, authenticity, checksum, confidentiality, data confidentiality, data integrity, defense, defense-in-depth, infrastructure assurance, interval estimate, profile assurance, quality assurance, reference monitor, reliability, robustness, sampling error, software quality assurance, source integrity, state delta verification system, trusted channel, trusted computing system, trusted path, assurance, trust) (includes confidence coefficient, confidence interval, confidence level, confidence limits, public confidence)

confidence coefficient

A measure (usually expressed as a percentage) of the degree of assurance that the estimate obtained from a sample differs from the population parameter being estimated by less than the measure of precision (sampling error). [SRV] (see also confidence)

confidence interval

An estimate of a population parameter that consists of a range of values bounded by statistics called upper and lower confidence limits. [SRV] (see also confidence)

confidence level

A number, stated as a percentage, that expresses the degree of certainty associated with an interval estimate of a population parameter. It is the probability that an estimate based on a random sample falls within a specified range. [SRV] (see also confidence)

confidence limits

Two statistics that form the upper and lower bounds of a confidence interval. [SRV] (see also confidence)

confidentiality

Preserving authorized restrictions on information access and disclosure, including means for protecting personal privacy and proprietary information. [800-60] (1) The assurance that information is not disclosed to inappropriate entities or processes. (2) The property that information is not made available or disclosed to unauthorized entities. (3) The prevention of the unauthorized disclosure of information. (4) The concept of holding sensitive data in confidence, limited to an appropriate set of individuals or organizations. [AJP] 1) Assurance that information is not disclosed to unauthorized persons, processes, or devices. 2) The protection of sensitive information from unauthorized disclosure and sensitive facilities from physical, technical or electronic penetration or exploitation. [CIAO] A concept that applies to data that must be held in confidence and that describes the status and degree of protection that must be provided for such data about individuals as well as organizations. [SRV] A security service that prevents unauthorized disclosure of information residing on a computer, transiting a local network, or flowing over a public Internet. [IATF] Assurance that information in an IT system is not disclosed to unauthorized persons, processes or devices. [800-37] Assurance that information is not disclosed to inappropriate entities or processes. [FCv1] Assurance that information is not disclosed to unauthorized entities or processes. [GSA] Assurance that information is not disclosed to unauthorized individuals, processes, or devices. [CNSSI] Assuring information will be kept secret, with access limited to appropriate persons. [NSAINT] Assuring information will be kept secret, with access limited to appropriate persons. The concept of holding sensitive data in confidence, limited to an appropriate set of individuals or organizations. [OVT] Ensuring that data is disclosed only to authorized subjects. [SRV] Holding sensitive data in confidence such that distribution is limited to those individuals or organizations with an established need to know [NASA] Preserving authorized restrictions on information access and disclosure, including means for protecting personal privacy and proprietary information. [800-82] The assurance that information is not disclosed to unauthorized entities or computer processes. [GAO06178] The concept of holding sensitive data in confidence, limited to an appropriate set of individuals or organizations. [NCSC/TG004] The prevention of the unauthorized disclosure of information. [ITSEC][NIAP] The principle that keeps information from being disclosed to anyone not authorized to access it. Synonymous with secrecy. [AFSEC] The property that information is not made available or disclosed to unauthorized entities. [JTC1/SC27] The property that information is not made available or disclosed to unauthorized individuals, entities, or processes. [SC27][TNI] The property that sensitive information is not disclosed to unauthorized individuals, entities or processes. [FIPS140] The security objective that generates the requirement for protection from intentional or accidental attempts to perform unauthorized data reads. Confidentiality covers data in storage, during processing, and in transit. [800-30][800-33] (see also Common Criteria for Information Technology Security, Generic Security Service Application Program Interface, Generic Upper Layer Security, IT security, IT security controls, IT security incident, Internet Protocol security, NULL encryption algorithm, Secure Electronic Transaction, access control, assurance, asymmetric cryptography, authentication header, authorized, classified, communications security, computer abuse, computer related controls, computer security, concealment system, confidence, data privacy, data security, defense-in-depth, defense-wide information assurance program, digital envelope, encapsulating security payload, encryption algorithm, entry-level certification, hybrid encryption, information assurance, information security, internet, intrusion, key recovery, levels of concern, line managers, mid-level certification, networks, object, passive, penetration, post-accreditation phase, privacy enhanced mail, privacy programs, privacy protection, public-key infrastructure, requirements for procedures and standards, secure shell, secure socket layer, security controls, security event, security policy, simple network management protocol, symmetric cryptography, top-level certification, transmission security, vulnerability, wrap, privacy, security goals) (includes cryptographic algorithm for confidentiality, data confidentiality, data confidentiality service, traffic flow confidentiality)

configuration

In configuration management, the functional and physical characteristics of hardware or software as set forth in technical documentation or achieved in a product. [IEEE610] Selection of one of the sets of possible combinations of features of a system or Target of Evaluation. [AJP][FCv1] The relative or functional arrangement of components in a system. [SRV] The selection of one of the sets of possible combinations of features of a Target of Evaluation. [ITSEC] (see also software, configuration management, target of evaluation)

configuration control

(1) A system of controls imposed on changing controlled objects produced during the development, production, and maintenance processes for a Target of Evaluation. (2) Management of changes made to a system's hardware, firmware, software, and documentation throughout the development and operational life of the computer system. (3) The process of controlling modifications to the system's hardware, firmware, software, and documentation that provides sufficient assurance that the system is protected against the introduction of improper modification before, during, and after system implementation. [AJP] (I) The process of regulating changes to hardware, firmware, software, and documentation throughout the development and operational life of a system. (C) Configuration control helps protect against unauthorized or malicious alteration of a system and thus provides assurance of system integrity. [RFC2828] A system of controls imposed on changing controlled objects produced during the development, production, and maintenance processes for a Target of Evaluation. [ITSEC] An element of configuration management, consisting of the evaluation, coordination, approval or disapproval, and implementation of changes to configuration items after formal establishment of their configuration identification. [IEEE610] Management of changes made to a system's hardware, firmware, software, and documentation throughout the development and operational life of the computer system. [TNI] Process for controlling modifications to hardware, firmware, software, and documentation to ensure the information system is protected against improper modifications before, during, and after system implementation. [800-82] Process of controlling modifications to hardware, firmware, software, and documentation to ensure that an IS is protected against improper modification before, during, and after system implementation. [CIAO] Process of controlling modifications to hardware, firmware, software, and documentation to ensure the IS is protected against improper modifications prior to, during, and after system implementation. [CNSSI] The management process of controlling the specific elements comprising IT and controlling changes to those elements; the process that ensures that only authorized and approved changes of or to those elements are made. Configuration control includes but is not limited to hardware, firmware, and software elements. [NASA] The process of controlling modifications to the system's hardware, firmware, software, and documentation that provides sufficient assurance that the system is protected against the introduction of improper modification before, during, and after system implementation. Compare to configuration management. [NCSC/TG004][SRV] (see also authorized, identification, integrity, software, configuration management, control, target of evaluation) (includes object)

configuration identification

An element of configuration management, consisting of selecting the configuration items for a system and recording their functional and physical characteristics in technical documentation. [IEEE610] (see also configuration management, identification)

configuration item

An aggregation of hardware or computer programs or any of its discrete portions which satisfies an end use function. [SRV] An aggregation of hardware, software, or both, that is designated for configuration management and treated as a single entity in the configuration management process. [IEEE610] (see also software, configuration management)

configuration management (CM)

A discipline applying technical and administrative direction and surveillance to identify and document the functional and physical characteristics of a configuration item, control changes to those characteristics, record and report change processing and implementation status, and verify compliance with specified requirements. [IEEE610] A family of security controls in the management class dealing with the control of changes made to hardware, software, firm ware, documentation, test, test fixtures, and test documentation throughout the life cycle of an IT system. [800-37] A procedure for applying technical and administrative direction and surveillance to: (1) identify and document the functional and physical characteristics of an item or system, (2) control any changes to such characteristics, and (3) record and report the change, process, and implementation status. The process of controlling the software and documentation so they remain consistent as they are developed or changed. The configuration management process must be carefully tailored to the capacity, size, scope, phase of the life cycle, maturity, and complexity of the computer system involved. [SRV] Management of security features and assurances through control of changes made to hardware, firmware, software, documentation, test, test fixtures, and test documentation throughout the life cycle of an IT system. [CIAO][IATF] Management of security features and assurances through control of changes made to hardware, software, firmware, documentation, test, test fixtures, and test documentation throughout the life cycle of an IS. [CNSSI] The management of security features and assurances through control of changes made to a system's hardware, software, firmware, documentation, test, test fixtures, and test documentation throughout the development and operational life of the computer system. [AJP][NCSC/TG004] The management of security features and assurances through control of changes made to a system's hardware, software, firmware, documentation, test, test fixtures, and test documentation throughout the development and operational life of the computer system. Compare to configuration control. [SRV] (see also identify, software, test, assurance, risk management, software development) (includes baseline management, configuration, configuration control, configuration identification, configuration item, secure configuration management)

confinement

The prevention of the leaking of sensitive data from a program. [AJP][NCSC/TG004] (see also risk) (includes confinement channel, confinement property)

confinement channel

See covert channel. [CNSSI] (see also covert channel, covert timing channel, confinement)

confinement property

A subject has write access to an object only if classification of the object dominates the clearance of the subject. [RFC2828] (see also *-property, Bell-LaPadula security model, access control, classification level, classified, confinement)

conformance testing

A process established by NIST within its responsibilities of developing, promulgating, and supporting FIPS for testing specific characteristics of components, products, and services, as well as people and organizations for compliance with a FIPS. [GSA] (see also security testing)

conformant validation certificate

A validation certificate issued by or under the authority of a Party in accordance with the terms of an agreement on the mutual recognition of certificates in the field of IT security. [NIAP] (see also computer security, security, validation)

congruence

Property of a set of integers which differ from each other by a multiple of the modulus. Congruence is indicated by the symbol º . For example, 39 º 6 (mod 11) indicates that 39 and 6 are congruent with respect to the modulus 11, i.e., 39 - 6 = 33, that is a multiple of 11. [SC27] Property of a set of integers which differ from each other by a multiple of the modulus. Congruence is indicated by the symbol º . For example, 39 º 6 (mod 11) indicates that 39 and 6 are congruent with respect to the modulus 11, i.e., 39 - 6 = 33, that is a multiple of 11. [SC27]

connection

A liaison, in the sense of a network interrelationship, between two hosts for a period of time. The liaison is established (by an initiating host) for the purpose of information transfer (with the associated host). The period of time is the time required to carry out the intent of the liaison (e.g. transfer of a file, a chatter session, or delivery of mail). In many cases, a connection (in the sense of this glossary) will coincide with a host-host connection (in a special technical sense) that is established via TCP (Transmission Control Protocol) or an equivalent protocol. However, a connection (liaison) can also exist when only a protocol such as IP (Internet Protocol) is in use. (IP has no concept of a connection that persists for a period of time.) Hence, the notion of connection can be independent of the particular protocols in use during a liaison of two hosts. [AJP] A liaison, in the sense of a network interrelationship, between two hosts for a period of time. The liaison is established (by an initiating host) for the purpose of information transfer (with the associated host); the period of time is the time required to carry out the intent of the liaison (e.g. transfer of a file, a chatter session, delivery of mail). In many cases, a connection (in the sense of this glossary) will coincide with a host-host connection (in a special technical sense) established via TCP or equivalent protocol. However a connection (liaison) can also exist when only a protocol such as IP is in use (IP has no concept of a connection that persists for a period of time). Hence, the notion of connection as used here is independent of the particular protocols in use during a liaison of two hosts. [TNI] A state in which two hosts, or a host and the DUT/SUT, agree to exchange data using a known protocol. A connection is an abstraction describing an agreement between two nodes: One agrees to send data and the other agrees to receive it. [RFC2647] (see also data source, networks, firewall) (includes concurrent connections, connection establishment, connection establishment time, connection maintenance, connection overhead, connection teardown, connection teardown time)

connection establishment

The data exchanged between hosts, or between a host and the DUT/SUT, to initiate a connection. Connection-oriented protocols like TCP have a proscribed handshaking procedure when launching a connection. When benchmarking firewall performance, it is import to identify this handshaking procedure so that it is not included in measurements of bit forwarding rate or UOTs per second. Testers may also be interested in measurements of connection establishment time through or with a given DUT/SUT. [RFC2647] (see also identify, security association, test, connection)

connection establishment time

The length of time needed for two hosts, or a host and the DUT/SUT, to agree to set up a connection using a known protocol. Each connection-oriented protocol has its own defined mechanisms for setting up a connection. For purposes of benchmarking firewall performance, this shall be the interval between receipt of the first bit of the first octet of the packet carrying a connection establishment request on a DUT/SUT interface until transmission of the last bit of the last octet of the last packet of the connection setup traffic headed in the opposite direction. This definition applies only to connection-oriented protocols such as TCP. For connectionless protocols such as UDP, the notion of connection establishment time is not meaningful. [RFC2647] (see also connection)

connection maintenance

The data exchanged between hosts, or between a host and the DUT/SUT, to ensure a connection is kept alive. Some implementations of TCP and other connection-oriented protocols use 'keep-alive' data to maintain a connection during periods where no user data is exchanged. When benchmarking firewall performance, it is useful to identify connection maintenance traffic as distinct from UOTs per second. Given that maintenance traffic may be characterized by short bursts at periodical intervals, it may not be possible to describe a steady-state forwarding rate for maintenance traffic. One possible approach is to identify the quantity of maintenance traffic, in bytes or bits, over a given interval, and divide through to derive a measurement of maintenance traffic forwarding rate. [RFC2647] (see also identify, connection)

connection overhead

The degradation in bit forwarding rate, if any, observed as a result of the addition of one connection between two hosts through the DUT/SUT, or the addition of one connection from a host to the DUT/SUT. The memory cost of connection establishment and maintenance is highly implementation-specific. This metric is intended to describe that cost in a method visible outside the firewall. It may also be desirable to invert this metric to show the performance improvement as a result of tearing down one connection. [RFC2647] (see also connection)

connection teardown

The data exchanged between hosts, or between a host and the DUT/SUT, to close a connection. Connection-oriented protocols like TCP follow a stated procedure when ending a connection. When benchmarking firewall performance, it is important to identify the teardown procedure so that it is not included in measurements of bit forwarding rate or UOTs per second. Testers may also be interested in measurements of connection teardown time through or with a given DUT/SUT. [RFC2647] (see also identify, test, connection)

connection teardown time

The length of time needed for two hosts, or a host and the DUT/SUT, to agree to tear down a connection using a known protocol. Each connection-oriented protocol has its own defined mechanisms for dropping a connection. For purposes of benchmarking firewall performance, this shall be the interval between receipt of the first bit of the first octet of the packet carrying a connection teardown request on a DUT/SUT interface until transmission of the last bit of the last octet of the last packet of the connection teardown traffic headed in the opposite direction. This definition applies only to connection-oriented protocols such as TCP. For connectionless protocols such as UDP, the notion of connection teardown time is not meaningful. [RFC2647] (see also connection)

connectionless data integrity service

(I) A security service that provides data integrity service for an individual IP datagram, by detecting modification of the datagram, without regard to the ordering of the datagram in a stream of datagrams. (C) A connection-oriented data integrity service would be able to detect lost or reordered datagrams within a stream of datagrams. [RFC2828] (see also integrity)

connectivity

The property of the TOE which allows interaction with IT entities external to the TOE. This includes exchange of data by wire or by wireless means, over any distance in any environment or configuration. [CC2][CC21][SC27] (see also target of evaluation)

consequence management

Includes measures to protect public health and safety, restore essential government services, and provide emergency relief to governments, businesses, and individuals affected by the consequences of terrorism. The laws of the United States assign primary authority to the States to respond to the consequences of terrorism; the Federal Government provides assistance as required. [CIAO] (see also risk management)

consistency

The degree of uniformity, standardization, and freedom from contradiction among the documents or parts of system or component. [IEEE610] (see also database management system)

console

A program that provides user and administrator interfaces to an intrusion detection and prevention system. [800-94] (see also intrusion, intrusion detection, user)

console logon

Accessing IT from the computer operator's system control console. Console logons are generally granted privileged user status. [NASA] (see also privileged, user, logon)

console logs

Important system events that are recorded and printed at the system control console Handwritten journals of important events kept by the computer operator [NASA] (see also audit trail)

constant surveillance service (CSS)

construction

The process of creating a Target of Evaluation. [AJP][ITSEC] (see also target of evaluation)

construction of TOE requirements

An intermediate com