1. Introduction
An antivirus application is installed on the remote host. This means a security tool designed to detect and prevent malicious software is present, which helps protect systems from viruses, malware, and other threats. Systems running Windows, macOS, and Linux are commonly affected. A compromised system could lead to data loss, service disruption, or unauthorized access.
2. Technical Explanation
The presence of an antivirus application indicates a layer of security is in place. The engine and virus definitions being up-to-date ensures the software can identify current threats. There is no active exploitation path to describe as this is a positive security control, not a vulnerability. However, outdated or misconfigured antivirus software *can* be exploited by malware.
- Root cause: The system has an installed and up-to-date antivirus application.
- Exploit mechanism: Not applicable – this is a protective measure. Malware could bypass protection if definitions are old.
- Scope: All systems with an installed antivirus application.
3. Detection and Assessment
Confirming the presence of an up-to-date antivirus application can be done through several methods. These checks verify that a security control is active and functioning correctly.
- Quick checks: Use the Windows Security app or check installed programs in Control Panel to confirm the antivirus software is present.
- Scanning: Nessus plugin ID 3ed73b52 can be used to detect this condition.
- Logs and evidence: Antivirus logs may show definition update times and scan results, but these vary by product.
4. Solution / Remediation Steps
Ensure the antivirus application remains enabled and up-to-date. These steps maintain a critical security control.
4.1 Preparation
- No backups or snapshots are specifically needed for this check, but regular system backups are recommended. No services need to be stopped.
- Change window needs: Typically no specific change window is required unless a major update is being applied. Approval may not be needed, but security team awareness is good practice.
4.2 Implementation
- Step 1: Verify the antivirus software is running and enabled.
- Step 2: Check for available definition updates and install them if present.
- Step 3: Schedule regular scans to ensure continued protection.
4.3 Config or Code Example
Before
After
4.4 Security Practices Relevant to This Vulnerability
Practices that support this control include regular patching and a layered security approach.
- Practice 1: Patch cadence – Regularly update antivirus software to protect against new threats.
- Practice 2: Layered security – Combine antivirus with other controls like firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and endpoint detection and response (EDR) for comprehensive protection.
4.5 Automation (Optional)
5. Verification / Validation
- Post-fix check: Use the Windows Security app or installed programs list to confirm the software is still present and running.
- Re-test: Re-run Nessus plugin ID 3ed73b52 to verify continued detection of the antivirus application.
- Smoke test: Ensure basic system functionality, such as file access and internet connectivity, remains unaffected.
- Monitoring: Check antivirus logs for regular definition updates and successful scans.
6. Preventive Measures and Monitoring
Preventive measures include maintaining a security baseline and incorporating checks into deployment pipelines.
- Baselines: Include antivirus software installation and configuration in your security baseline or policy (for example, CIS control 2).
- Asset and patch process: Establish a regular schedule for reviewing and updating antivirus definitions and software versions.
7. Risks, Side Effects, and Roll Back
Risks associated with this check are minimal, but potential side effects include performance impacts from scans.
- Risk or side effect 1: Antivirus scans can consume system resources. Schedule scans during off-peak hours to minimize impact.
8. References and Resources
- Vendor advisory or bulletin: https://www.tenable.com/blog/auditing-anti-virus-products-with-nessus
- NVD or CVE entry: Not applicable – this is a positive security control.
- Product or platform documentation relevant to the fix: Refer to your specific antivirus vendor’s documentation for update instructions.