Windows 10 must be configured to require a minimum pin length of six characters or greater.

Overview

Finding IDVersionRule IDIA ControlsSeverity
V-220847WN10-CC-000260SV-220847r991589_ruleCCI-000366medium
Description
Windows allows the use of PINs as well as biometrics for authentication without sending a password to a network or website where it could be compromised. Longer minimum PIN lengths increase the available combinations an attacker would have to attempt. Shorter minimum length significantly reduces the strength.
STIGDate
Microsoft Windows 10 Security Technical Implementation Guide2025-02-25

Details

Check Text (C-220847r991589_chk)

If the following registry value does not exist or is not configured as specified, this is a finding. Registry Hive: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE Registry Path: \SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft\PassportForWork\PINComplexity\ Value Name: MinimumPINLength Type: REG_DWORD Value: 6 (or greater)

Fix Text (F-22551r555027_fix)

Configure the policy value for Computer Configuration >> Administrative Templates >> System >> PIN Complexity >> "Minimum PIN length" to "6" or greater. v1607 LTSB: The policy path is Computer Configuration >> Administrative Templates >> Windows Components >> Windows Hello for Business >> Pin Complexity. v1507 LTSB: The policy path is Computer Configuration >> Administrative Templates >> Windows Components >> Microsoft Passport for Work >> Pin Complexity.