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mediumkernelverified rollback-safe

Restrict access to kernel symbol addresses

sysctl-kptr-restrict · RHEL ≥ 8 · 1 impl

Description

The kernel.kptr_restrict sysctl parameter must be set to 1 or higher to restrict access to kernel symbol addresses via /proc/kallsyms and similar interfaces.

Rationale

Exposing kernel symbol addresses allows attackers to bypass kernel address space layout randomization (KASLR). Restricting access to kernel pointers prevents information disclosure that could aid exploitation of kernel vulnerabilities.

Check → Remediate

Checksysctl_value
key:
kernel.kptr_restrict
expected:
1
Remediatesysctl_set
key:
kernel.kptr_restrict
value:
1
persist_file:
/etc/sysctl.d/99-kensa-kptr.conf

Framework references

CIS

rhel8 1.5.6rhel10 1.5.6

STIG

V-230547V-281308 / RHEL-10-701060V-257800 / RHEL-09-213025

NIST 800-53

CM-6SC-4

Live verification

rhel10:checkrhel8:checkrhel9:check
#kernel#sysctl#kaslr#security#information-disclosure