CIS Google Android Benchmark v1.3.0
CIS Google Android Benchmark v1.3.0
v1.3.0 - 09-03-2019
Terms of Use
Please see the below link for our current terms of use:
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Table of Contents
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1.18 (L1) Ensure 'Scan device for security threats' is set to 'Enabled' (Not Scored)
................................................................................................................................................................ 43
1.19 (L1) Ensure 'Improve harmful app detection' is set to 'Enabled' (Not Scored)
................................................................................................................................................................ 45
1.20 (L1) Ensure 'Ask for unlock pattern/PIN/password before unpinning' is set
to 'Enabled' (Not Scored) ............................................................................................................. 47
1.21 (L1) Ensure 'Screen timeout' is set to '1 minute or less' (Not Scored) ............ 49
1.22 (L1) Ensure 'Wi-Fi assistant' is set to 'Disabled' (Not Scored)............................ 51
1.23 (L1) Keep device Apps up to date (Not Scored) ........................................................ 53
1.24 (L1) Ensure 'Add users from lock screen' is set to 'Disabled' (Not Scored)... 55
1.25 (L1) Ensure 'Guest profiles' do not exist (Not Scored)........................................... 57
1.26 (L1) Review app permissions periodically (Not Scored) ...................................... 59
1.27 (L1) Ensure 'Instant apps' is set to 'Disabled' (Not Scored) ................................. 61
2 Android OS Privacy Settings.................................................................................................................. 63
2.1 (L1) Ensure 'Lock screen' is set to 'Don't show notifications at all' (Not Scored)
................................................................................................................................................................ 63
2.2 (L2) Ensure 'Use location' is set to 'Disabled' (Not Scored) ................................... 65
2.3 (L2) Ensure 'Back up to Google Drive' is 'Disabled' (Not Scored) ........................ 67
2.4 (L1) Ensure 'Web and App Activity' is set to 'Disabled' (Not Scored) ................ 69
2.5 (L1) Ensure 'Device Information' is set to 'Disabled' (Not Scored) ..................... 71
2.6 (L1) Ensure 'Voice & Audio Activity' is set to 'Disabled' (Not Scored) ............... 73
2.7 (L1) Ensure 'YouTube Search History' is set to 'Disabled' (Not Scored) ........... 75
2.8 (L1) Ensure 'YouTube Watch History' is set to 'Disabled' (Not Scored) ............ 77
2.9 (L1) Ensure 'Google Location History' is set to 'Disabled' (Not Scored) ............ 79
2.10 (L1) Ensure 'Opt out of Ads Personalization' is set to 'Enabled' (Not Scored)
................................................................................................................................................................ 81
3 Android OS Chrome Browser Settings .............................................................................................. 83
3.1 (L1) Ensure 'Microphone' is set to 'Enabled' (Not Scored) ..................................... 83
3.2 (L1) Ensure 'Location' is set to 'Enabled' (Not Scored) ............................................ 85
3.3 (L1) Ensure 'Allow third-party cookies' is set to 'Disabled' (Not Scored) ........ 87
3.4 (L1) Ensure 'Safe Browsing' is set to 'Enabled' (Not Scored)................................. 89
3.5 (L2) Ensure 'Search and URL suggestions' is set to 'Disabled' (Not Scored) ... 91
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3.6 (L2) Ensure 'Do Not Track' is set to 'Enabled' (Not Scored) ................................... 93
Appendix: Summary Table ............................................................................................................................. 95
Appendix: Change History .............................................................................................................................. 97
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Overview
This document, Security Configuration Benchmark for Google Android, provides
prescriptive guidance for establishing a secure configuration posture for the Google
Android OS. This guide was tested against the Android 10.0.0 OS. This benchmark covers
Android 10.0.x and all hardware devices on which this OS is supported.
In determining recommendations, the current guidance treats all Android mobile device
platforms as having the same use cases and risk/threat scenarios. In all but a very few
cases, configuration steps, default settings, and benchmark recommended settings are
identical regardless of hardware platform. To obtain the latest version of this guide, please
visit http://cisecurity.org. If you have questions, comments, or have identified ways to
improve this guide, please write us at [email protected].
Intended Audience
This document is intended for system and application administrators, security specialists,
auditors, help desk, end users, and platform deployment personnel who plan to use,
develop, deploy, assess, or secure solutions that use Android 10.0.x
Consensus Guidance
This benchmark was created using a consensus review process comprised of subject
matter experts. Consensus participants provide perspective from a diverse set of
backgrounds including consulting, software development, audit and compliance, security
research, operations, government, and legal.
Each CIS benchmark undergoes two phases of consensus review. The first phase occurs
during initial benchmark development. During this phase, subject matter experts convene
to discuss, create, and test working drafts of the benchmark. This discussion occurs until
consensus has been reached on benchmark recommendations. The second phase begins
after the benchmark has been published. During this phase, all feedback provided by the
Internet community is reviewed by the consensus team for incorporation in the
benchmark. If you are interested in participating in the consensus process, please visit
https://workbench.cisecurity.org/.
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Typographical Conventions
The following typographical conventions are used throughout this guide:
Convention Meaning
Stylized Monospace font Used for blocks of code, command, and script examples.
Text should be interpreted exactly as presented.
Monospace font Used for inline code, commands, or examples. Text should
be interpreted exactly as presented.
<italic font in brackets> Italic texts set in angle brackets denote a variable
requiring substitution for a real value.
Scoring Information
A scoring status indicates whether compliance with the given recommendation impacts the
assessed target's benchmark score. The following scoring statuses are used in this
benchmark:
Scored
Failure to comply with "Scored" recommendations will decrease the final benchmark score.
Compliance with "Scored" recommendations will increase the final benchmark score.
Not Scored
Failure to comply with "Not Scored" recommendations will not decrease the final
benchmark score. Compliance with "Not Scored" recommendations will not increase the
final benchmark score.
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Profile Definitions
The following configuration profiles are defined by this Benchmark:
Level 1
Level 2
This profile extends the "Level 1" profile. Items in this profile exhibit one or more of
the following characteristics:
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Acknowledgements
This benchmark exemplifies the great things a community of users, vendors, and subject matter
experts can accomplish through consensus collaboration. The CIS community thanks the entire
consensus team with special recognition to the following individuals who contributed greatly to
the creation of this guide:
Editor
Jordan Rakoske GSEC, GCWN
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Recommendations
1 Android OS Security Settings
This section provides the security recommendation for Android OS.
Level 1
Description:
Ensure that the device is kept up to date with security patch levels.
Rationale:
Firmware updates often include critical security fixes that reduce the probability of an
attacker remotely exploiting the device. The device should be on the latest security patch
level as applicable.
Audit:
To verify that your device is updated to the most recent firmware version:
Remediation:
Follow the below steps to check and update the device security patch level:
Impact:
None
Default Value:
By default, users are notified about security patch level updates but are not installed until
the user initiates the process.
References:
1. https://source.android.com/security/bulletin/index.html
CIS Controls:
Version 6
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1.2 (L1) Ensure 'Screen Lock' is set to 'Enabled' (Not Scored)
Profile Applicability:
Level 1
Description:
Rationale:
Enabling Screen lock requires a form of user authentication before interacting with the
device. This strengthens application and data protection and overall improves the device
security.
Audit:
Verify that a Pattern, PIN or Password has been set for the device.
Remediation:
Impact:
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Default Value:
References:
1. https://support.google.com/android/answer/9079129?hl=en&ref_topic=7029556
&visit_id=636958548934918587-3326560713&rd=1
CIS Controls:
Version 6
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1.3 (L1) Ensure 'Make pattern visible' is set to 'Disabled' (if using a
pattern as device lock mechanism) (Not Scored)
Profile Applicability:
Level 1
Description:
Rationale:
Keeping device unlock pattern visible during device unlock can reveal the pattern and is
vulnerable to shoulder surfing attack. Hence, do not make the device unlock pattern visible.
Audit:
Follow the below steps and verify that device unlock pattern is not visible:
Remediation:
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Impact:
The user would have to be careful while entering the device unlock pattern since visual
feedback would not provide any clues for tracing pattern input.
Default Value:
References:
1. https://support.google.com/android/answer/9079129?hl=en&visit_id=636958548
934918587-3326560713&rd=1
CIS Controls:
Version 6
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1.4 (L1) Ensure 'Automatically Lock' is set to 'Immediately' (Not Scored)
Profile Applicability:
Level 1
Description:
Rationale:
Automatically and immediately locking the device as soon as it goes to sleep ensure that
there is no lag between the device entering the sleep state and the device getting locked. At
times, the user just rests the device and moves away from it. The phone eventually enters
the sleep state and automatically and immediately locking it ensures that no manual
locking of the device is needed. This ensures that the unattended devices are locked
immediately as soon as the device enters the sleep state.
Audit:
Follow the below steps and verify that Automatically Look is set to Immediately:
Remediation:
Impact:
None
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Default Value:
CIS Controls:
Version 6
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1.5 (L1) Ensure 'Power button instantly locks' is set to 'Enabled' (Not
Scored)
Profile Applicability:
Level 1
Description:
Rationale:
Pressing the power button instantly puts the phone to sleep. Enabling Power button
instantly locks setting ensures that the device is instantly locked as well.
Audit:
Follow the below steps and verify that Power button instantly locks is Enabled:
Remediation:
Follow the below steps to enable the Power button instantly locks setting:
Impact:
None
Default Value:
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References:
1. https://support.google.com/android/answer/9079129?hl=en&visit_id=636958548
934918587-3326560713&rd=1
CIS Controls:
Version 6
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1.6 (L1) Ensure 'Lock Screen Message' is configured (Not Scored)
Profile Applicability:
Level 1
Description:
The recommended state for this setting is: Configure Lock Screen Message.
Rationale:
deterrent warnings,
device recognition without needing to unlock it and
most importantly emergency information
Such information could be valuable to both your device security as well as personnel
security. It is thus recommended to have a suitable lock screen message.
Audit:
Follow the below steps and verify that Lock screen message is set:
Remediation:
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7. Write your message and tap Save.
Impact:
Anyone who picks up your device can see your message and emergency information
without unlocking your phone.
Default Value:
CIS Controls:
Version 6
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1.7 (L2) Do not connect to untrusted Wi-Fi networks (Not Scored)
Profile Applicability:
Level 2
Description:
The recommended state for this setting is: Only connect to trusted networks.
Rationale:
Audit:
Follow the below steps to verify that Wi-Fi is either disabled or not connected to an
untrusted network:
Remediation:
Impact:
You might have to use cellular data and would not be able to take advantage of Public Wi-
Fi.
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Default Value:
NA
References:
1. https://support.google.com/android/answer/9075847?hl=en
CIS Controls:
Version 6
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1.8 (L2) Ensure 'Show passwords' is set to 'Disabled' (Not Scored)
Profile Applicability:
Level 2
Description:
Rationale:
This setting controls whether passwords typed into your Android device should be visible
on screen, or hidden by replacing the letters with dots. When this setting is off, the
password is obscured by dots, and only the most recent key pressed is visible for a short
time after it has been pressed. When this setting is on, the entire password can be viewed
in plain text, if desired.
Audit:
Remediation:
Impact:
Given the relative difficulty of typing letters accurately on a small on-screen keyboard, it
can be helpful to get visual feedback on-screen that you have typed all the letters of your
password correctly. Disabling password visibility might impact user experience.
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Default Value:
CIS Controls:
Version 6
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1.9 (L1) Ensure 'Developer Options' is set to 'Disabled' (Not Scored)
Profile Applicability:
Level 1
Description:
Rationale:
Enabling Developer Options allows a user to drastically alter certain very advanced
settings on the device. This can severely affect the way device functions and exposes
greater and developmental features to the user. This also exposes the device to respond to
features such as USB debugging (when enabled) and other such features that could be
exploited to get malicious access to the device sub-system. Hence, the Developer Options
should be disabled.
Audit:
Remediation:
Impact:
None
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Default Value:
References:
1. https://developer.android.com/studio/debug/dev-options
CIS Controls:
Version 6
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1.10 (L1) Ensure 'Install unknown apps' is set to 'Disabled' (Not Scored)
Profile Applicability:
Level 1
Description:
Rationale:
This setting determines whether applications can be installed from locations other than
Google Play. Disabling installation from untrusted distribution channels protects against
inadvertent installation of untrusted or malicious applications. Apps on Google play are
vetted by Google Security Team and are mostly safe to install. You should avoid installing
apps from anywhere else.
Audit:
Follow the below steps to verify that Install unknown apps is Disabled:
Remediation:
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Impact:
None
Default Value:
References:
1. https://support.google.com/pixelphone/answer/7391672?hl=en
CIS Controls:
Version 6
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1.11 (L1) Do not root your device (Not Scored)
Profile Applicability:
Level 1
Description:
Rationale:
Rooting your Android device breaks the user level restrictions put by the Android
operating system. This significantly opens up the device to allow literally any privileged
action. Rooting enables any form of alteration to the device. This puts the device at a much
greater risk because any vulnerability can be exploited without any restrictions. This also
voids the warranty and future security updates are problematic to install. Hence, for all
user purposes, do not root your device.
Audit:
Detecting whether a device is rooted or not is not straight forward. You would usually need
to install terminal apps or root checker apps to detect rooted devices. Follow your device
manufacturer support/documentation/community to detect rooting.
Remediation:
Impact:
None
Default Value:
By default, devices are not rooted and run with user level restrictions.
References:
1. http://www.wikihow.com/Check-if-Your-Android-Cellphone-Is-Rooted-or-Not
2. http://www.wikihow.com/Unroot-Android
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CIS Controls:
Version 6
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1.12 (L2) Ensure 'Smart Lock' is set to 'Disabled' (Not Scored)
Profile Applicability:
Level 2
Description:
Rationale:
Smart Lock detects device presence and its circumstances and automatically keeps it
unlocked even if the device has a screen password, pin or pattern enabled. Using Smart
Lock does not require you to manually unlock the device every time if the pre-defined
circumstances are met. As a best practice, do not set the device to get unlocked
automatically. For example, if your device gets stolen and if it is taken to a location pre-
defined in Smart Lock, it would automatically unlock. Similarly, if someone could replay
your voice, the device would automatically unlock.
Audit:
Remediation:
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Impact:
Default Value:
References:
1. https://support.google.com/android/answer/9075927?hl=en&visit_id=636959420
073607202-2748220419&rd=1
CIS Controls:
Version 6
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1.13 (L2) Ensure 'Lock SIM card' is set to 'Enabled' (Not Scored)
Profile Applicability:
Level 2
Description:
Rationale:
If your device uses a SIM card(s), enable SIM card lock. A SIM card PIN locks the SIM and
prevents anyone from removing the SIM card from your device and use it on any other
device without knowing the PIN. Also, you might choose to store your contacts and
messages on the SIM card and thus it is highly recommended that you safeguard this
valuable personal data by setting a custom PIN on the SIM card(s).
Note: Only phones that are not locked by the service provider can lock the SIM card.
Audit:
Follow the below steps to verify that Lock SIM card is Enabled:
Remediation:
1. Call up your SIM card provider and get the default SIM PIN.
2. Tap the Settings Gear Icon.
3. Tap Security.
4. Tap SIM card lock.
5. Toggle Lock SIM card to the on position.
6. Enter the default PIN provided by your SIM provider.
7. Press OK.
8. The Lock SIM card option will then be enabled.
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9. Tap on Change SIM PIN.
10. Again provide the default PIN provided (Old PIN) by your SIM card provider.
11. Type your new custom PIN.
12. Re-type your new custom PIN.
13. Press OK.
14. Your custom SIM PIN is then set.
15. Repeat the process for your 2nd SIM, if applicable.
Impact:
You would need to remember your SIM card PIN. If you forget your SIM card PIN, you need
your SIM card provider support for unlocking the SIM card.
Default Value:
By default, Lock SIM card is disabled. Also, the SIM card has a default PIN set by the
provider which is usually universally known.
References:
1. https://support.google.com/android/answer/6088895?hl=en-
GB&visit_id=636959420073607202-2748220419&rd=1
CIS Controls:
Version 6
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1.14 (L2) Ensure 'Find My Device' is set to 'Enabled' (Not Scored)
Profile Applicability:
Level 2
Description:
Rationale:
If you lose your Android device, you could use Find My Device to find your device and also
ring, lock, or erase your device data remotely.
Audit:
Remediation:
Impact:
Default Value:
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References:
1. https://support.google.com/android/answer/6160491?hl=en
CIS Controls:
Version 6
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1.15 (L1) Ensure 'Use network-provided time' and 'Use network-
provided time zone' are set to 'Enabled' (Not Scored)
Profile Applicability:
Level 1
Description:
Enable Use network-provided time. For this setting to work correctly, Use network-
provided time zone` setting should also be enabled.
Rationale:
Use network-provided time setting fetches the date and time information from the
cellular provider and is generally more accurate and reliable than your own managed and
set date and time. Accurate date and time could help in forensics, device recovery through
Android Device Manager and maintain application and logs in a time-sync manner.
Audit:
Follow the below steps to verify that Use network-provided time and Use network-
provided time zone setting is Enabled:
Remediation:
Follow the below steps to enable Use network-provided time and Use network-provided
time zone settings:
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Impact:
None
Default Value:
By default, Use network-provided time and Use network-provided time zone settings
are Enabled.
References:
1. https://support.google.com/nexus/answer/2841106?hl=en
CIS Controls:
Version 6
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1.16 (L1) Ensure 'Remotely locate this device' is set to 'Enabled' (Not
Scored)
Profile Applicability:
Level 1
Description:
Rationale:
Remotely locate this device setting helps you to track your lost device using Find My
Device. It must be enabled for improving the recovery possibility of your device.
Audit:
Follow the below steps to verify that Remotely locate this device setting is Enabled:
Remediation:
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Impact:
This setting requires you to keep location services enabled all the time. This might be a
privacy issue for you.
Default Value:
References:
1. https://support.google.com/accounts/answer/3265955#location
CIS Controls:
Version 6
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1.17 (L1) Ensure 'Allow remote lock and erase' is set to 'Enabled' (Not
Scored)
Profile Applicability:
Level 1
Description:
Rationale:
Allow remote lock and erase setting helps you to remotely lock your device or erase
your data through Find My Device. This helps you to safeguard your privacy and protect
your data from unsanctioned access.
Audit:
Follow the below steps to verify that Allow remote lock and erase setting is Enabled:
Remediation:
Follow the below steps to enable Allow remote lock and erase:
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Impact:
This setting requires you to keep location services enabled all the time. This might be a
privacy issue for you.
Default Value:
References:
1. https://support.google.com/accounts/answer/3265955#location
CIS Controls:
Version 6
13 Data Protection
Data Protection
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1.18 (L1) Ensure 'Scan device for security threats' is set to 'Enabled' (Not
Scored)
Profile Applicability:
Level 1
Description:
Rationale:
Scan device for security threats setting lets Google regularly check your device and
prevent or warn about potential harm. This should be always enabled.
Audit:
Follow the below steps to verify that Scan device for security threats setting is
Enabled:
Remediation:
Follow the below steps to enable Scan device for security threats:
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Impact:
None
Default Value:
References:
1. https://support.google.com/googleplay/answer/2812853?hl=en
CIS Controls:
Version 6
8 Malware Defenses
Malware Defenses
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1.19 (L1) Ensure 'Improve harmful app detection' is set to 'Enabled' (Not
Scored)
Profile Applicability:
Level 1
Description:
Rationale:
Audit:
Follow the below steps to verify that Improve harmful app detection setting is Enabled:
Remediation:
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Impact:
User data needs to be sent to Google that may incur data charges based on your carrier.
Also, this user data might contain, but not restricted to, log information, URLs related to the
app, device ID, your Android version, and IP address.
Default Value:
References:
1. https://support.google.com/googleplay/answer/2812853?hl=en
CIS Controls:
Version 6
8 Malware Defenses
Malware Defenses
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1.20 (L1) Ensure 'Ask for unlock pattern/PIN/password before
unpinning' is set to 'Enabled' (Not Scored)
Profile Applicability:
Level 1
Description:
Rationale:
Your might lend your device to a friend or anyone else for carrying out a single task such as
make an emergency phone call or play a game. You should use screen pinning in such a
situation. It locks the users to the particular screen that you handed over the device with.
Users cannot use the device outside of that application until the screen is unpinned.
Unpinning screen should require re-authentication.
Audit:
Follow the below steps to verify that Ask for pattern/PIN/password before unpinning
setting is Enabled:
Remediation:
Follow the below steps to enable Ask for pattern/PIN/password before unpinning:
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6. If you are using Screen Pinning, then toggle Ask for pattern/PIN/password
before unpinning setting to ON position.
Impact:
None
Default Value:
By default, if you enable Screen pinning, then Ask for pattern/PIN/password before
unpinning setting is also enabled if you have previously chosen to lock your device with a
pattern, PIN or password. If you have previously chosen to not lock your device, you would
be required to set it up by tapping Lock device when unpinning after enabling Screen
pinning.
References:
1. https://support.google.com/android/answer/6118421?hl=en
CIS Controls:
Version 6
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1.21 (L1) Ensure 'Screen timeout' is set to '1 minute or less' (Not Scored)
Profile Applicability:
Level 1
Description:
Rationale:
You should set inactivity timeout to avoid unsanctioned usage of the device if you leave it
unattended. The inactivity timeout not only blackens your screen after stipulated time
period but also kicks in other security features such as screen lock that protect your device
when you leave it unattended.
Audit:
Follow the below steps to verify that Screen timeout setting is set to 1 minute or less:
Remediation:
Follow the below steps to set Screen timeout setting to 1 minute or less:
Impact:
You would need to unlock your device after every time inactivity period is reached.
Default Value:
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References:
1. https://support.google.com/android/answer/9084191?hl=en
CIS Controls:
Version 6
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1.22 (L1) Ensure 'Wi-Fi assistant' is set to 'Disabled' (Not Scored)
Profile Applicability:
Level 1
Description:
Rationale:
Wi-Fi assistant automatically connects to any open Wi-Fi and tunnel the connection
through Google VPN servers. Even with the level of security included when this setting is
enabled, it is recommended that users only connect to trusted networks manually and to
leave this setting disabled.
Audit:
Remediation:
Impact:
You would not benefit from open Wi-fi connections and would require using cellular data.
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Default Value:
Note: on the Verizon Variant this setting is disabled. Also, this feature is available only on
Pixel phones and Nexus devices running Android 5.1 and up in the selected countries.
References:
1. https://support.google.com/nexus/answer/6327199?hl=en
CIS Controls:
Version 6
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1.23 (L1) Keep device Apps up to date (Not Scored)
Profile Applicability:
Level 1
Description:
Rationale:
Keeping apps updated gives you access to the latest features and improves app security
and stability. This has similar advantages as patching. Hence, keep your device apps
updated.
Audit:
1. Tap/slide up Launcher.
2. Launch Play Store App in the App drawer.
3. Tap Menu.
4. Tap My apps & Games.
5. Verify that all apps are up to date.
Remediation:
1. Tap/slide up Launcher.
2. Launch Play Store App in the App drawer.
3. Tap Menu.
4. Tap My apps & Games.
5. If there are any updates pending, then tap Update All.
Impact:
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Default Value:
By default, apps are automatically updated. If cellular data is not a concern or secure Wi-Fi
is available then you can leave the default Playstore app setting to auto update the apps to
ensure that apps are updated automatically.
References:
1. https://support.google.com/googleplay/answer/113412?hl=en-IN
CIS Controls:
Version 6
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1.24 (L1) Ensure 'Add users from lock screen' is set to 'Disabled' (Not
Scored)
Profile Applicability:
Level 1
Description:
Rationale:
Users and the guest profile can do most of the same things as the device's owner, but each
profile has its own storage space. Guests could install malicious apps or carry out any other
malicious activities that may compromise overall device security. Also, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
connections are shared which could give guests unauthorized access to networks/devices
that could compromise data. Hence, Add users from lock screen setting should be
disabled.
Audit:
Follow the below steps to verify that Add users from lock screen setting is 'Disabled`:
Remediation:
Follow the below steps to disable Add users from lock screen setting:
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Impact:
Users will not be able to add additional users when the device is locked.
Default Value:
References:
1. https://support.google.com/pixelphone/answer/2865944
CIS Controls:
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1.25 (L1) Ensure 'Guest profiles' do not exist (Not Scored)
Profile Applicability:
Level 1
Description:
The recommended state for this setting is: Remove Guest profiles.
Rationale:
Users and the guest profile can do most of the same things as the device's owner, but each
profile has its own storage space. Guests could install malicious apps or carry out any other
malicious activities that may compromise overall device security. Also, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
connections are shared which could give guests unauthorized access to networks/devices
that could compromise data. Hence, do not add any guest profiles on the device.
If you need to give your device to someone for temporary use, use Screen Pinning to
restrict access to the desired app and be in the complete visibility of your device all the
time.
Audit:
Follow the below steps to verify that the Guest profile do not exist:
Remediation:
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Impact:
None
Default Value:
References:
1. https://support.google.com/pixelphone/answer/2865944
2. https://support.google.com/pixelphone/answer/6115141?hl=en&ref_topic=70834
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1.26 (L1) Review app permissions periodically (Not Scored)
Profile Applicability:
Level 1
Description:
The recommended state for this setting is: Review app permissions regularly.
Rationale:
App permissions allow you to control which capabilities or information apps could access
on your device. This can extend from using device hardware to using your personal data.
You should periodically review your all app's permissions and ensure that those apps have
legitimate permissions. Uninstall apps that over-seek permissions.
Audit:
Remediation:
Impact:
Some of the apps tend to have more than required permissions. Such apps might not work
if you disable the permissions it originally asked for. Also, if you disable the needed
permissions, you may not be able to use the app and might have to re-install it.
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Default Value:
References:
1. https://support.google.com/googleplay/answer/6270602?hl=en-IN
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1.27 (L1) Ensure 'Instant apps' is set to 'Disabled' (Not Scored)
Profile Applicability:
Level 1
Description:
Rationale:
Instant apps allow you to use apps without installing them on your device. On clicking app
links, the browser downloads and run app modules as desired by the user.
Having exposure to an app like this is dangerous since any malicious link could then
potentially trick the user and then browser could download the app code and run on your
device without requiring installation. Also, this feature defies enterprise security that relies
on blacklisting or whitelisting apps based on installation. Hence, it is recommended to turn
off instant apps.
Audit:
Remediation:
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Impact:
Instant apps will not be available. The app links would open on the browser as other
regular links.
Default Value:
References:
1. https://support.google.com/googleplay/answer/7240211
2. https://www.appthority.com/mobile-threat-center/blog/will-googles-instant-
apps-undermine-enterprise-security/
3. https://developer.android.com/topic/instant-apps/index.html
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2 Android OS Privacy Settings
This section provides the privacy-related recommendation for Android OS.
2.1 (L1) Ensure 'Lock screen' is set to 'Don't show notifications at all'
(Not Scored)
Profile Applicability:
Level 1
Description:
The recommended state for this setting is: Don't show notifications at all.
Rationale:
If the device is lost or is unattended, then disabling notifications do not display any
notification information on the locked screen. This information might be private or
confidential and thus unwarranted disclosures could be avoided.
Audit:
To verify Notifications on the lock screen are set to Don't show notifications at all:
Remediation:
Follow the below steps to set the On the lock screen to Don't show notifications at
all:
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6. Tap Lock Screen and set it to Don't show notifications at all.
Impact:
The user will not be able to see contents of notifications on lock screen requiring her to
unlock the device each time.
Default Value:
References:
1. https://support.google.com/pixelphone/answer/6111294?hl=en&ref_topic=70782
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2.2 (L2) Ensure 'Use location' is set to 'Disabled' (Not Scored)
Profile Applicability:
Level 2
Description:
Rationale:
Location allows applications such as Maps and Internet websites to gather and use data
indicating the user's location. The user's location is determined using available information
from cellular network data, local Wi-Fi networks, Bluetooth and GPS. If the user turns off
Location Services, the user will be prompted to turn it back on again the next time any
application tries to use this feature.
Disabling location reduces the capability of an attacker to determine or track the user's
location via websites, locally installed applications or other means without user's consent.
Thus, it should be disabled when not in use.
Note: Location is very important for tracking your lost device if the device data is not
disabled. Make a judicious call and decide what works best for you or in your environment.
Audit:
Remediation:
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Impact:
Each time an application needs location data, the user activity would be interrupted to
enable the location.
Another impact could be on finding your lost device. If the device is lost and the location is
disabled, you cannot use remote locate services such as Android Device Manager.
Default Value:
References:
1. https://support.google.com/pixelphone/answer/3467281?hl=en&ref_topic=70838
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2.3 (L2) Ensure 'Back up to Google Drive' is 'Disabled' (Not Scored)
Profile Applicability:
Level 2
Description:
Rationale:
You can back up content, data, and settings from your device to your Google Account. You
can then later restore your backed-up information to another device. Due to privacy
concerns, backing up personal data such as text messages, emails, photos and contacts to
any third party is not recommended unless you accept the risk of sharing the data with the
3rd party. Moreover, if you are using a personal device for business apps such as emails,
that data might be backed up as well in the Google Drive related to your personal account
and might be exposed. Hence, disable the automatic backup to Google drive and carefully
choose what data backup you need.
Audit:
Remediation:
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Impact:
A backup of the device will not be taken and hence restoration would not be possible. Also,
the user would have to carefully choose the data to be backed up and manually back it up
periodically.
Default Value:
References:
1. https://support.google.com/pixelphone/answer/7179901?hl=en
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2.4 (L1) Ensure 'Web and App Activity' is set to 'Disabled' (Not Scored)
Profile Applicability:
Level 1
Description:
Disable linking of web and app activity to your account when you are logged out.
Note: This setting is applicable only for Google Pixel range of devices.
Rationale:
When this setting is enabled, your searches and activity from other Google services are
linked and saved to your Google Account, even when you are logged out or offline. This
could be privacy-invasive and hence it is recommended to disable this setting.
Audit:
Follow the below steps to verify that Web & App Activity setting is Disabled:
Remediation:
Follow the below steps to disable Web & App Activity setting:
Impact:
Web and App activities would not be linked to your account. You might not get
personalized user experience.
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Default Value:
References:
1. https://support.google.com/pixelphone/answer/6139018?co=GENIE.Platform%3D
Desktop&hl=en
2. https://support.google.com/websearch/answer/54068
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2.5 (L1) Ensure 'Device Information' is set to 'Disabled' (Not Scored)
Profile Applicability:
Level 1
Description:
Note: This setting is applicable only for Google Pixel range of devices.
Rationale:
Turning on Device Information setting saves various device related information to your
account to give you personalized results, suggestions, and experiences. The information
saved might include contact lists, calendars, alarms, apps, and music. Additionally,
information such as whether the screen is on, the battery level, the quality of your Wi-Fi or
Bluetooth connection, touchscreen and sensor readings, and crash reports are also saved
and shared with Google. This could be privacy-invasive and hence it is recommended to
disable this setting.
Audit:
Follow the below steps to verify that Device Information setting is Disabled:
Remediation:
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Impact:
Default Value:
References:
1. https://support.google.com/pixelphone/answer/6139018?co=GENIE.Platform%3D
Desktop&hl=en
2. https://support.google.com/accounts/answer/6135999
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2.6 (L1) Ensure 'Voice & Audio Activity' is set to 'Disabled' (Not Scored)
Profile Applicability:
Level 1
Description:
Disable saving your voice and other audio to your Google Account.
Note: This setting is applicable only for Google Pixel range of devices.
Rationale:
Google records your voice and other audio when you use audio activations. Audio can be
saved even when your device is offline. When Voice & Audio Activity is off, voice inputs
won't be saved to your Google Account, even if you're signed in. Instead, they may only be
saved using anonymous identifiers. This could be privacy-invasive and hence it is
recommended to disable this setting.
Audit:
Follow the below steps to verify that Voice & Audio Activity setting is Disabled:
Remediation:
Follow the below steps to disable Voice & Audio Activity setting:
Impact:
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Default Value:
References:
1. https://support.google.com/pixelphone/answer/6139018?co=GENIE.Platform%3D
Desktop&hl=en
2. https://support.google.com/websearch/answer/6030020
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2.7 (L1) Ensure 'YouTube Search History' is set to 'Disabled' (Not Scored)
Profile Applicability:
Level 1
Description:
Note: This setting is applicable only for Google Pixel range of devices.
Rationale:
Turning on YouTube Search History setting links and stores all your YouTube searches to
your account across any device. Also, your YouTube and Google search history influences
the recommendations that you see on your YouTube homepage when you are logged-in.
This could be privacy-invasive and hence it is recommended to disable this setting.
Audit:
Follow the below steps to verify that YouTube Search History setting is Disabled:
Remediation:
Impact:
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Default Value:
References:
1. https://support.google.com/pixelphone/answer/6139018?co=GENIE.Platform%3D
Desktop&hl=en
2. https://support.google.com/youtube/answer/57711
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2.8 (L1) Ensure 'YouTube Watch History' is set to 'Disabled' (Not Scored)
Profile Applicability:
Level 1
Description:
Note: This setting is applicable only for Google Pixel range of devices.
Rationale:
Turning on YouTube Watch History setting links and stores all your watched YouTube
videos to your account from any device. Also, this influences the recommendations that you
see on your YouTube homepage when you are logged-in and other YouTube video
recommendations. This could be privacy-invasive and hence it is recommended to disable
this setting.
Audit:
Follow the below steps to verify that YouTube Watch History setting is Disabled:
Remediation:
Impact:
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Default Value:
References:
1. https://support.google.com/pixelphone/answer/6139018?co=GENIE.Platform%3D
Desktop&hl=en
2. https://support.google.com/youtube/answer/95725
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2.9 (L1) Ensure 'Google Location History' is set to 'Disabled' (Not Scored)
Profile Applicability:
Level 1
Description:
Note: This setting is applicable only for Google Pixel range of devices.
Rationale:
When Google Location History setting is turned on, your device periodically sends
diagnostics information to Google about what’s working and what’s not working in relation
to Location History. Location History allows Google to regularly obtain location data from
the device. It also stores your Location History to provide results and recommendations
across Google products. This could be privacy-invasive and hence it is recommended to
disable this setting.
Audit:
Follow the below steps to verify that Google Location History setting is Disabled:
Remediation:
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Impact:
Default Value:
References:
1. https://support.google.com/pixelphone/answer/6139018?co=GENIE.Platform%3D
Desktop&hl=en
2. https://support.google.com/accounts/answer/3118687
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2.10 (L1) Ensure 'Opt out of Ads Personalization' is set to 'Enabled' (Not
Scored)
Profile Applicability:
Level 1
Description:
Rationale:
Apps can use your app/browsing data to build a profile for displaying personalized ads. To
protect your privacy, you should disable building your profiles from various app/browsing
activities.
Audit:
Follow the below steps to verify that Opt out of Ads Personalization setting is Enabled:
Remediation:
Follow the below steps to enable Opt out of Ads Personalization setting:
Impact:
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Default Value:
References:
1. https://support.google.com/ads/answer/2662922?hl=en
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3 Android OS Chrome Browser Settings
3.1 (L1) Ensure 'Microphone' is set to 'Enabled' (Not Scored)
Profile Applicability:
Level 1
Description:
Rationale:
Websites will have to ask permission before being allowed to access the microphone which
will help prevent unwanted access to the microphone and help protect against potential
privacy concerns.
Audit:
Remediation:
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Impact:
Users will be prompted each time a website requests access to the microphone.
Default Value:
Enabled.
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3.2 (L1) Ensure 'Location' is set to 'Enabled' (Not Scored)
Profile Applicability:
Level 1
Description:
Rationale:
Websites will have to ask permission before being allowed to access the location which will
help prevent unwanted access to the users location and help protect against potential
privacy concerns.
Audit:
Remediation:
Impact:
Users will be prompted each time a website requests access to the location.
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Default Value:
Enabled.
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3.3 (L1) Ensure 'Allow third-party cookies' is set to 'Disabled' (Not Scored)
Profile Applicability:
Level 1
Description:
A third-party cookie is a cookie sent by a domain that differs from the domain in the
browser's address bar.
Rationale:
Blocking third party cookies can help protect a user's privacy by eliminating a number of
website tracking cookies.
Audit:
Follow the below steps to verify that Allow third-party cookies is Disabled:
Remediation:
Follow the below steps to Disabled the Allow third-party cookies option:
Impact:
Blocking third-party cookies may adversely effect the functionality of some sites.
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Default Value:
Enabled.
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3.4 (L1) Ensure 'Safe Browsing' is set to 'Enabled' (Not Scored)
Profile Applicability:
Level 1
Description:
Rationale:
Google Safe Browsing helps protect devices every day by showing warnings to users when
they attempt to navigate to dangerous sites or download dangerous files.
Audit:
Remediation:
Impact:
Users will be shown a warning message before they visit a dangerous site or download a
harmful app.
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Default Value:
Enabled.
References:
1. https://safebrowsing.google.com/
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3.5 (L2) Ensure 'Search and URL suggestions' is set to 'Disabled' (Not
Scored)
Profile Applicability:
Level 2
Description:
Google Chrome uses a prediction service to show you related searches, matches from your
browsing history, and popular websites as you type in the address bar.
Rationale:
Audit:
Follow the below steps to verify that Search and URL suggestions is Disabled:
Remediation:
Follow the below steps to Disable the Search and URL suggestions feature:
Default Value:
Enabled.
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References:
1. https://support.google.com/chrome/answer/114836?hl=en&co=GENIE.Platform%
3DAndroid
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3.6 (L2) Ensure 'Do Not Track' is set to 'Enabled' (Not Scored)
Profile Applicability:
Level 2
Description:
When you browse the web on computers or Android devices, you can send a request to
websites not to collect or track your browsing data.
Note Chrome doesn't provide details of which websites and web services respect Do Not
Track requests and how websites interpret them.
Rationale:
This setting will help in protecting some of the tracking that is done but many websites will
still collect and use your browsing data to improve security, provide content, services, ads
and recommendations on their websites, and generate reporting statistics.
Audit:
Remediation:
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7.
Toggle the Do Not Track to the OFF position.
Default Value:
Disabled.
References:
1. https://support.google.com/chrome/answer/2790761?hl=en&co=GENIE.Platform
%3DAndroid
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Appendix: Summary Table
Control Set
Correctly
Yes No
1 Android OS Security Settings
1.1 (L1) Ensure device firmware is up to date (Not Scored)
1.2 (L1) Ensure 'Screen Lock' is set to 'Enabled' (Not Scored)
1.3 (L1) Ensure 'Make pattern visible' is set to 'Disabled' (if using
a pattern as device lock mechanism) (Not Scored)
1.4 (L1) Ensure 'Automatically Lock' is set to 'Immediately' (Not
Scored)
1.5 (L1) Ensure 'Power button instantly locks' is set to 'Enabled'
(Not Scored)
1.6 (L1) Ensure 'Lock Screen Message' is configured (Not Scored)
1.7 (L2) Do not connect to untrusted Wi-Fi networks (Not
Scored)
1.8 (L2) Ensure 'Show passwords' is set to 'Disabled' (Not
Scored)
1.9 (L1) Ensure 'Developer Options' is set to 'Disabled' (Not
Scored)
1.10 (L1) Ensure 'Install unknown apps' is set to 'Disabled' (Not
Scored)
1.11 (L1) Do not root your device (Not Scored)
1.12 (L2) Ensure 'Smart Lock' is set to 'Disabled' (Not Scored)
1.13 (L2) Ensure 'Lock SIM card' is set to 'Enabled' (Not Scored)
1.14 (L2) Ensure 'Find My Device' is set to 'Enabled' (Not Scored)
1.15 (L1) Ensure 'Use network-provided time' and 'Use network-
provided time zone' are set to 'Enabled' (Not Scored)
1.16 (L1) Ensure 'Remotely locate this device' is set to 'Enabled'
(Not Scored)
1.17 (L1) Ensure 'Allow remote lock and erase' is set to 'Enabled'
(Not Scored)
1.18 (L1) Ensure 'Scan device for security threats' is set to
'Enabled' (Not Scored)
1.19 (L1) Ensure 'Improve harmful app detection' is set to
'Enabled' (Not Scored)
1.20 (L1) Ensure 'Ask for unlock pattern/PIN/password before
unpinning' is set to 'Enabled' (Not Scored)
1.21 (L1) Ensure 'Screen timeout' is set to '1 minute or less' (Not
Scored)
1.22 (L1) Ensure 'Wi-Fi assistant' is set to 'Disabled' (Not Scored)
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1.23 (L1) Keep device Apps up to date (Not Scored)
1.24 (L1) Ensure 'Add users from lock screen' is set to 'Disabled'
(Not Scored)
1.25 (L1) Ensure 'Guest profiles' do not exist (Not Scored)
1.26 (L1) Review app permissions periodically (Not Scored)
1.27 (L1) Ensure 'Instant apps' is set to 'Disabled' (Not Scored)
2 Android OS Privacy Settings
2.1 (L1) Ensure 'Lock screen' is set to 'Don't show notifications at
all' (Not Scored)
2.2 (L2) Ensure 'Use location' is set to 'Disabled' (Not Scored)
2.3 (L2) Ensure 'Back up to Google Drive' is 'Disabled' (Not
Scored)
2.4 (L1) Ensure 'Web and App Activity' is set to 'Disabled' (Not
Scored)
2.5 (L1) Ensure 'Device Information' is set to 'Disabled' (Not
Scored)
2.6 (L1) Ensure 'Voice & Audio Activity' is set to 'Disabled' (Not
Scored)
2.7 (L1) Ensure 'YouTube Search History' is set to 'Disabled' (Not
Scored)
2.8 (L1) Ensure 'YouTube Watch History' is set to 'Disabled' (Not
Scored)
2.9 (L1) Ensure 'Google Location History' is set to 'Disabled' (Not
Scored)
2.10 (L1) Ensure 'Opt out of Ads Personalization' is set to 'Enabled'
(Not Scored)
3 Android OS Chrome Browser Settings
3.1 (L1) Ensure 'Microphone' is set to 'Enabled' (Not Scored)
3.2 (L1) Ensure 'Location' is set to 'Enabled' (Not Scored)
3.3 (L1) Ensure 'Allow third-party cookies' is set to 'Disabled'
(Not Scored)
3.4 (L1) Ensure 'Safe Browsing' is set to 'Enabled' (Not Scored)
3.5 (L2) Ensure 'Search and URL suggestions' is set to 'Disabled'
(Not Scored)
3.6 (L2) Ensure 'Do Not Track' is set to 'Enabled' (Not Scored)
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Appendix: Change History
Date Version Changes for this version
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8-06-18 1.2.0 REMOVE - 2.4 Ensure 'Signed-out
search activity' is set to Disabled –
Ticket #6387
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