1.2.2 Ensure repository creation is limited to specific members

ID

cis_sscs/repository_creation

Severity

high

Category

source_code/repository

Levels

Optional

false

Tags

code-leakage, least-privilege, repo-permissions

Description

Limit the ability to create repositories to trusted users and teams.

Rationale

Restricting repository creation to trusted users and teams is recommended in order to keep the organization properly structured, track fewer items, prevent impersonation, and to not overload the version-control system. It will allow administrators easier source code tracking and management capabilities, as they will have fewer repositories to track. The process of detecting potential attacks also becomes far more straightforward, as well, since the easier it is to track the source code, the easier it is to detect malicious acts within it. Additionally, the possibility of a member creating a public repository and sharing the organization’s data externally is significantly decreased.

Verification

Verify that only trusted users and teams can create repositories.

Remediation

Restrict repository creation to trusted users and teams only.

In case of Azure Devops platform, ensure only users member of admin groups has the Create Repository permission allowed.