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Ensure pam_pwquality module is enabled

pam-pwquality-enabled · RHEL ≥ 8 · 2 impls

Description

The pam_pwquality module must be enabled in the PAM configuration.

Rationale

pam_pwquality enforces password complexity requirements, preventing weak passwords.

Check → Remediate

Checkcommand
if grep -qE '^\s*(password|auth).*pam_pwquality\.so' /etc/pam.d/system-auth /etc/pam.d/password-auth 2>/dev/null; then
  echo "OK: pam_pwquality configured"
  exit 0
fi
echo "FAIL: pam_pwquality not enabled"
exit 1
expected_exit:
0
Remediatepam_module_configure
service:
system-auth
module:
pam_pwquality.so
type:
password
control:
requisite
args:
local_users_only

Framework references

CIS

rhel9 5.3.2.3rhel10 5.3.1.3rhel8 5.3.2.3

NIST 800-53

IA-5

Live verification

rhel10:checkrhel8:checkrhel9:check
#pam#authentication#pwquality