Remote desktop software, also known as remote access tools, provide a way for computer users and support staff alike to share screens, access work computer systems from home, and vice versa. Examples of such software include LogMeIn, GoToMyPC, VNC (Virtual Network Computing), and Windows Remote Desktop (RDP). While these tools can save significant time and money by eliminating travel and enabling collaboration, they also provide a back door into CrowdFiber’s network that can be used for theft of, unauthorized access to, or destruction of assets. As a result, only approved, monitored, and properly controlled remote access tools may be used on CrowdFiber computer systems.

Remote Access Tools

CrowdFiber provides mechanisms to collaborate between internal users, with external partners, and from non-CrowdFiber systems. The approved software list can be obtained from the CrowdFiber Wiki. Because proper configuration is important for secure use of these tools, mandatory configuration procedures are provided for each of the approved tools.

The approved software list may change at any time, but the following requirements will be used for selecting approved products:

  1. All remote access tools or systems that allow communication to CrowdFiber resources from the Internet or external partner systems must require multi-factor authentication. Examples include authentication tokens and smart cards that require an additional PIN or password.
  2. The authentication database source must be Active Directory or LDAP, and the authentication protocol must involve a challenge-response protocol that is not susceptible to replay attacks. The remote access tool must mutually authenticate both ends of the session.
  3. Remote access tools must support the CrowdFiber application layer proxy rather than direct connections through the perimeter firewall(s).
  4. Remote access tools must support strong, end-to-end encryption of the remote access communication channels as specified in the CrowdFiber Network Encryption Protocols Policy.
  5. All CrowdFiber antivirus, data loss prevention, and other security systems must not be disabled, interfered with, or circumvented in any way.

All remote access tools must be purchased through the standard CrowdFiber procurement process, and the information technology group must approve the purchase.