STIGQter: STIG Summary: Microsoft Azure SQL Managed Instance Security Technical Implementation Guide Version: 1 Release: 1 Benchmark Date: 23 Sep 2025:

When using command-line tools with Azure SQL Server Managed Instance, such as SQLCMD, in a mixed-mode authentication environment, users must use a logon method that does not expose the password.

DISA Rule

SV-276323r1149878_rule

Vulnerability Number

V-276323

Group Title

SRG-APP-000178-DB-000083

Rule Version

MSQL-D0-018100

Severity

CAT I

CCI(s)

• CCI-000206 - Obscure feedback of authentication information during the authentication process to protect the information from possible exploitation and use by unauthorized individuals.

Weight

10

Fix Recommendation

Where possible, enable Microsoft Entra-only authentication.

Refer to: https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/azure/azure-sql/database/authentication-azure-ad-only-authentication-tutorial?view=azuresql&tabs=azure-powershell

If mixed-mode authentication is necessary, then for SQLCMD, which cannot be configured not to accept a plain-text password when mixed-mode authentication is enabled, and any other essential tool with the same limitation, complete the following:

1. Document the need for it, who uses it, and any relevant mitigations, and obtain AO approval.
2. Train all users of the tool in the importance of not using the plain-text password option and in how to keep the password hidden.

Check Contents

Run this PowerShell command to determine whether Microsoft Entra-only authentication is enabled:

Get-AzSqlInstanceActiveDirectoryOnlyAuthentication -InstanceName <myinstance> -ResourceGroupName <myresource>

If "AzureADOnlyAuthentication" value is "True", this is not a finding.

For SQLCMD, which cannot be configured not to accept a plain-text password, and any other essential tool with the same limitation, verify the system documentation explains the need for the tool, who uses it, and any relevant mitigations; and that AO approval has been obtained; if not, this is a finding.

Request evidence that all users of the tool are trained in the importance of not using the plain-text password option and in how to keep the password hidden; and that they adhere to this practice; if not, this is a finding.

Vulnerability Number

V-276323

Documentable

False

Rule Version

MSQL-D0-018100

Severity Override Guidance

Run this PowerShell command to determine whether Microsoft Entra-only authentication is enabled:

Get-AzSqlInstanceActiveDirectoryOnlyAuthentication -InstanceName <myinstance> -ResourceGroupName <myresource>

If "AzureADOnlyAuthentication" value is "True", this is not a finding.

For SQLCMD, which cannot be configured not to accept a plain-text password, and any other essential tool with the same limitation, verify the system documentation explains the need for the tool, who uses it, and any relevant mitigations; and that AO approval has been obtained; if not, this is a finding.

Request evidence that all users of the tool are trained in the importance of not using the plain-text password option and in how to keep the password hidden; and that they adhere to this practice; if not, this is a finding.

Check Content Reference

M

Target Key

5711