How to Protect User Sessions from Remote Viewing on Terminal Servers

Terminal servers are essential tools for managing multiple user sessions, especially in enterprise environments. However, ensuring the privacy and security of these sessions is crucial, particularly when sensitive data is involved. This article provides practical steps to prevent unauthorized viewing or shadowing of terminal server sessions, helping administrators maintain a secure and compliant environment.

1. Why Restrict Remote Viewing?

Remote control or shadowing is a valuable feature for troubleshooting and user support, but it can pose risks in certain scenarios. Restricting remote viewing is essential when:

• Sessions involve sensitive or confidential information.
• Organizations need to comply with data protection regulations.
• Users require assurance of privacy in their working environment.

2. Methods to Restrict Viewing of User Sessions

2.1. Configuring Group Policy

Group Policy is a powerful tool for managing terminal server settings. To prevent remote control of sessions:

1. Open the Group Policy Management Editor.
2. Navigate to: Computer Configuration -> Administrative Templates -> Windows Components -> Remote Desktop Services -> Remote Desktop Session Host -> Connections
3. Locate the policy "Set rules for remote control of Remote Desktop Services user sessions".
4. Enable the policy and choose:
   • No remote control allowed to fully disable shadowing.
   • Require user’s permission to ensure that users must explicitly approve any remote control request.
5. Apply the policy and update it across servers using gpupdate /force.

2.2. Adjusting Session Permissions

You can further restrict remote control by modifying session permissions:

1. Remove remote control rights for specific users or groups:
   • Access the server’s Session Host Configuration (or its equivalent in newer versions).
   • Edit user permissions and uncheck "Allow Remote Control."
2. Use role-based access control (RBAC) to ensure only authorized administrators have shadowing privileges.

2.3. Modifying Registry Settings

For more granular control, registry settings can be adjusted:

1. Open the Registry Editor.
2. Navigate to:
   HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\Terminal Server\WinStations\RDP-Tcp
3. Modify the Shadow DWORD value:
   • 0 = No remote control allowed.
   • 2 = Requires user consent for remote control.
   • 4 = View-only mode with user consent.
4. Restart the Remote Desktop Services to apply the changes.

3. Testing and Verification

After implementing restrictions, it’s essential to test the configuration:

• Verify that restricted users cannot be shadowed.
• Use tools like gpresult /h report.html to confirm the applied policies.
• Check session logs to ensure compliance with organizational policies.

Conclusion

Restricting remote viewing of terminal server sessions is a vital step in securing sensitive information and maintaining user trust. By using Group Policy, session permissions, and registry settings, administrators can effectively manage and protect user sessions.

Implementing these measures not only enhances security but also aligns with best practices for compliance and operational efficiency. If you encounter challenges, consult your IT security team or relevant documentation for additional support.

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