VNC Blocking — Action Items

Action Items

Phase 0: Discovery

  • Incorporate January 2026 AQL query results — VNC traffic patterns, source/destination IPs, ports (5900-5999, 5800-5899)

  • Run updated AQL query against current QRadar data — compare footprint drift since January

  • Query ISE profiler data for VNC-capable endpoints (profiled attributes, OUI, DHCP fingerprint)

  • Pull FTD/FMC logs for VNC port activity (TCP 5900-5999)

  • Check Sentinel for VNC-related events if connector ingestion covers relevant sources

  • Identify all VLANs and subnets with VNC traffic

  • Document VNC server versions observed (RFB protocol fingerprinting if available)

Phase 1: Impact Assessment

  • Classify endpoints: clinical devices, research workstations, facilities/BMS, administrative

  • Identify endpoints with legitimate remote access needs — coordinate with department leads

  • Cross-reference with BMS Device Inventory project (PRJ-2026-04-bms-device-inventory) — BMS systems frequently use VNC

  • Assess Medigate/Claroty visibility for IoT/OT devices running VNC

  • Document exception candidates with business justification

Phase 2: Alternative Provisioning

  • Confirm approved remote access alternatives (RDP+NLA, jump hosts, vendor-specific tools)

  • Coordinate migration plan for legitimate VNC users

  • Ensure alternatives are deployed and tested before blocking

Phase 3: Blocking Implementation

  • Draft FTD ACL rules blocking TCP 5900-5999, 5800-5899

  • Draft ISE AuthZ policy denying VNC traffic where applicable

  • Coordinate with endpoint team for GPO/agent-level blocking

  • Write CR per STD-005 for CAB approval

  • Schedule maintenance window for implementation

Phase 4: Validation & Enforcement

  • Build Sentinel/KQL alert for any VNC traffic post-blocking

  • Monitor for circumvention (non-standard ports, tunneling)

  • Validate zero VNC traffic in SIEM for 7-day window

  • Close project — final report to leadership

Administrative

  • Add to carryover tracker if not completed by mid-June

  • Cross-reference with Mandiant remediation findings (if VNC flagged)