Microsoft PKI Services Corporate Certification Practice Statement

Microsoft PKI Services

Corporate Certification Practice Statement (CPS)

Version 3.1.7

May 22, 2023

Microsoft PKI Services Corporate Certification Practice Statement (CPS) v3.1.7  
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Table of Contents 
 
INTRODUCTION ..............................................................................................10 
1 OVERVIEW ...................................................................................................................... 10 
2 DOCUMENT NAME AND IDENTIFICATION ........................................................... 10 
2.1 Revisions ................................................................................................................................... 10 
2.2 Relevant Dates .......................................................................................................................... 10 
3 PKI PARTICIPANTS ....................................................................................................... 10 
3.1 Certification Authorities .......................................................................................................... 10 
3.1.1 Root CAs .......................................................................................................................................... 11 
3.1.2 Subordinate CAs.............................................................................................................................. 11 
3.1.3 Issuing CAs ...................................................................................................................................... 11 
3.2 Registration Authorities .......................................................................................................... 11 
3.3 Subscribers ............................................................................................................................... 11 
3.4 Relying Parties ......................................................................................................................... 12 
3.5 Other Participants.................................................................................................................... 12 
4 CERTIFICATE USAGE .................................................................................................. 12 
4.1 Appropriate Certificate Uses .................................................................................................. 12 
4.2 Prohibited Certificate Uses ..................................................................................................... 12 
5 POLICY ADMINISTRATION ........................................................................................ 13 
5.1 Organization Administering the Document........................................................................... 13 
5.2 Contact Person ......................................................................................................................... 13 
5.3 Person Determining CPS Suitability for the Policy .............................................................. 13 
5.4 CPS Approval Procedures ....................................................................................................... 13 
6 DEFINITIONS AND ACRONYMS ................................................................................ 13 
6.1 Definitions ................................................................................................................................. 13 
6.2 Acronyms .................................................................................................................................. 17 
6.3 References ................................................................................................................................. 17 
6.4 Conventions .............................................................................................................................. 18 
PUBLICATION AND REPOSITORY RESPONSIBILITIES .....................18 
1 REPOSITORIES ............................................................................................................... 18 
2 PUBLICATION OF CERTIFICATION INFORMATION .......................................... 18 
3 TIME OR FREQUENCY OF PUBLICATION ............................................................. 19 
4 ACCESS CONTROLS ON REPOSITORIES ................................................................ 19 
IDENTIFICATION AND AUTHENTICATION ...........................................19 
1 NAMING ............................................................................................................................ 19 
1.1 Type of Names .......................................................................................................................... 19 
1.2 Need for Names to be Meaningful .......................................................................................... 19 
1.3 Anonymity or Pseudonymity of Subscribers ......................................................................... 19 
1.4 Rules for Interpreting Various Name Forms ........................................................................ 19 
1.5 Uniqueness of Names ............................................................................................................... 19 

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1.6 Recognition, Authentication, and Role of Trademarks ........................................................ 19 
2 INITIAL IDENTITY VALIDATION ............................................................................. 20 
2.1 Method to Prove Possession of Private Key ........................................................................... 20 
2.2 Authentication of Organization Identity ................................................................................ 20 
2.2.1 Identity ............................................................................................................................................. 20 
2.2.2 DBA/Tradename .............................................................................................................................. 20 
2.2.3 Verification of Country ................................................................................................................... 20 
2.2.4 Validation of Domain Authorization or Control .......................................................................... 20 
2.2.4.1 Validating the Applicant as a Domain Contact ..................................................................... 20 
2.2.4.2 Email, Fax, SMS, or Postal Mail to Domain Contact ........................................................... 20 
2.2.4.3 Phone Contact with Domain Contact ..................................................................................... 20 
2.2.4.4 Constructed Email to Domain Contact .................................................................................. 20 
2.2.4.5 Domain Authorization Document .......................................................................................... 20 
2.2.4.6 Agreed-Upon Change to Website ........................................................................................... 21 
2.2.4.7 DNS Change ............................................................................................................................. 21 
2.2.4.8 IP Address ................................................................................................................................ 21 
2.2.4.9 Test Certificate ......................................................................................................................... 21 
2.2.4.10 TLS Using a Random Number ............................................................................................. 21 
2.2.4.11 Any Other Methods ............................................................................................................... 21 
2.2.4.12 Validating Applicant as a Domain Contact ......................................................................... 21 
2.2.5 Authentication for an IP Address .................................................................................................. 21 
2.2.6 Wildcard Domain Validation ......................................................................................................... 21 
2.2.7 Data Source Accuracy ..................................................................................................................... 21 
2.2.8 CAA Records ................................................................................................................................... 21 
2.3 Authentication of Individual Identity .................................................................................... 21 
2.4 Non-Verified Subscriber Information .................................................................................... 21 
2.5 Validation of Authority ........................................................................................................... 21 
2.6 Criteria for Interoperation ...................................................................................................... 22 
2.7 Criteria for PKI Operating Groups ....................................................................................... 22 
3 IDENTIFICATION AND AUTHENTICATION FOR RE-KEY REQUESTS .......... 22 
3.1 Identification and Authentication for Routine Re-Key ........................................................ 22 
3.2 Identification and Authentication for Re-Key After Revocation ......................................... 22 
4 IDENTIFICATION AND AUTHENTICATION FOR REVOCATION REQUEST  22 
CERTIFICATE LIFE-CYCLE OPERATIONAL REQUIREMENTS .......22 
1 CERTIFICATE APPLICATION .................................................................................... 22 
1.1 Who Can Submit a Certificate Application ........................................................................... 22 
1.2 Enrollment Process and Responsibilities ............................................................................... 23 
2 CERTIFICATE APPLICATION PROCESSING ......................................................... 23 
2.1 Performing Identification and Authentication Functions .................................................... 23 
2.2 Approval or Rejection of Certificate Applications................................................................ 23 
2.3 Time to Process Certificate Applications ............................................................................... 23 
3 CERTIFICATE ISSUANCE ............................................................................................ 23 
3.1 CA Actions During Certificate Issuance ................................................................................ 23 
3.2 Notification to Subscriber by the CA of Issuance of Certificate .......................................... 24 
4 CERTIFICATE ACCEPTANCE .................................................................................... 24 
4.1 Conduct Constituting Certificate Acceptance ....................................................................... 24 

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4.2 Publication of the Certificate by the CA ................................................................................ 24 
4.3 Notification of Certificate Issuance by the CA to Other Entities ........................................ 24 
5 KEY PAIR AND CERTIFICATE USAGE .................................................................... 24 
5.1 Subscriber Private Key and Certificate Usage ...................................................................... 24 
5.2 Relying Party Public Key and Certificate Usage .................................................................. 24 
6 CERTIFICATE RENEWAL ........................................................................................... 24 
6.1 Circumstance for Certificate Renewal ................................................................................... 24 
6.2 Who May Request Renewal .................................................................................................... 25 
6.3 Processing Certificate Renewal Requests .............................................................................. 25 
6.4 Notification of New Certificate Issuance to Subscriber ........................................................ 25 
6.5 Conduct Constituting Acceptance of a Renewal Certificate ................................................ 25 
6.6 Publication of the Renewal Certificate by the CA ................................................................ 25 
6.7 Notification of Certificate Issuance by the CA to Other Entities ........................................ 25 
7 CERTIFICATE RE-KEY ................................................................................................ 25 
7.1 Circumstance for Certificate Re-Key ..................................................................................... 25 
7.2 Who May Request Certification of a New Public Key .......................................................... 25 
7.3 Processing Certificate Re-keying Requests ............................................................................ 25 
7.4 Notification of New Certificate Issuance to Subscriber ........................................................ 25 
7.5 Conduct Constituting Acceptance of a Re-keyed Certificate ............................................... 26 
7.6 Publication of the Re-keyed Certificate by the CA ............................................................... 26 
7.7 Notification of Certificate Issuance by the CA to Other Entities ........................................ 26 
8 CERTIFICATE MODIFICATION ................................................................................. 26 
8.1 Circumstance for Certificate Modification ............................................................................ 26 
8.2 Who May Request Certificate Modification .......................................................................... 26 
8.3 Processing Certificate Modification Requests ....................................................................... 26 
8.4 Notification of New Certificate Issuance to Subscriber ........................................................ 26 
8.5 Conduct Constituting Acceptance of Modified Certificate .................................................. 26 
8.6 Publication of the Modified Certificate by the CA................................................................ 26 
8.7 Notification of Certificate Issuance by the CA to Other Entities ........................................ 26 
9 CERTIFICATE REVOCATION AND SUSPENSION ................................................. 26 
9.1 Circumstances for Revocation ................................................................................................ 26 
9.1.1 Reasons for Revoking a Subscriber Certificate ............................................................................ 27 
9.1.2 Reasons for Revoking a Subordinate CA Certificate ................................................................... 27 
9.2 Who Can Request Revocation ................................................................................................ 27 
9.3 Procedure for Revocation Request ......................................................................................... 27 
9.4 Revocation Request Grace Period .......................................................................................... 27 
9.5 Time Within Which CA Must Process the Revocation Request .......................................... 28 
9.6 Revocation Checking Requirement for Relying Parties ....................................................... 28 
9.7 CRL Issuance Frequency ........................................................................................................ 28 
9.8 Maximum Latency for CRLs .................................................................................................. 28 
9.9 On-Line Revocation/Status Checking Availability ............................................................... 28 
9.10 On-Line Revocation Checking Requirements ..................................................................... 28 
9.11 Other Forms of Revocation Advertisements Available ...................................................... 28 
9.12 Special Requirements re Key Compromise ......................................................................... 28 
9.13 Circumstances for Suspension .............................................................................................. 28 

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9.14 Who Can Request Suspension .............................................................................................. 28 
9.15 Procedure for Suspension Request ....................................................................................... 28 
9.16 Limits on Suspension Period ................................................................................................. 29 
10 CERTIFICATE STATUS SERVICES ......................................................................... 29 
10.1 Operational Characteristics .................................................................................................. 29 
10.2 Service Availability ................................................................................................................ 29 
10.3 Optional Features ................................................................................................................... 29 
11 END OF SUBSCRIPTION ............................................................................................. 29 
12 KEY ESCROW AND RECOVERY .............................................................................. 29 
12.1 Key Escrow and Recovery Policy and Practices ................................................................. 29 
12.2 Session Key Encapsulation and Recovery Policy and Practices ........................................ 29 
FACILITY, MANAGEMENT, AND OPERATIONAL CONTROLS ........29 
1 PHYSICAL CONTROLS ................................................................................................. 29 
1.1 Site Location and Construction .............................................................................................. 29 
1.2 Physical Access ......................................................................................................................... 29 
1.3 Power and Air Conditioning ................................................................................................... 30 
1.4 Water Exposures ...................................................................................................................... 30 
1.5 Fire Prevention and Protection ............................................................................................... 30 
1.6 Media Storage ........................................................................................................................... 30 
1.7 Waste Disposal ......................................................................................................................... 30 
1.8 Off-Site Backup ........................................................................................................................ 30 
2 PROCEDURAL CONTROLS ......................................................................................... 30 
2.1 Trusted Roles ............................................................................................................................ 30 
2.2 Number of Persons Required per Task .................................................................................. 31 
2.3 Identification and Authentication for Each Role .................................................................. 31 
2.4 Roles Requiring Separation of Duties .................................................................................... 31 
3 PERSONNEL CONTROLS ............................................................................................. 31 
3.1 Qualifications, Experience, and Clearance Requirements ................................................... 31 
3.2 Background Check Procedures .............................................................................................. 31 
3.3 Training Requirements ............................................................................................................ 31 
3.4 Retraining Frequency and Requirements .............................................................................. 31 
3.5 Job Rotation Frequency and Sequence .................................................................................. 32 
3.6 Sanctions for Unauthorized Actions ....................................................................................... 32 
3.7 Independent Contractor Requirements ................................................................................. 32 
3.8 Documentation Supplied to Personnel ................................................................................... 32 
4 AUDIT LOGGING PROCEDURES ............................................................................... 32 
4.1 Types of Events Recorded ....................................................................................................... 32 
4.2 Frequency of Processing Log .................................................................................................. 33 
4.3 Retention Period for Audit Log .............................................................................................. 33 
4.4 Protection of Audit Log ........................................................................................................... 34 
4.5 Audit Log Backup Procedures ................................................................................................ 34 
4.6 Audit Collection System (Internal vs. External) ................................................................... 34 
4.7 Notification to Event-Causing Subject ................................................................................... 34 

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4.8 Vulnerability Assessments ....................................................................................................... 34 
5 RECORDS ARCHIVAL................................................................................................... 34 
5.1 Types of Records Archived ..................................................................................................... 34 
5.2 Retention Period for Archive .................................................................................................. 34 
5.3 Protection of Archive ............................................................................................................... 34 
5.4 Archive Backup Procedures .................................................................................................... 34 
5.5 Requirements for Time-Stamping of Records ....................................................................... 35 
5.6 Archive Collection System (Internal or External) ................................................................ 35 
5.7 Procedures to Obtain and Verify Archive Information ....................................................... 35 
6 KEY CHANGEOVER ...................................................................................................... 35 
7 COMPROMISE AND DISASTER RECOVERY .......................................................... 35 
7.1 Incident and Compromise Handling Procedures .................................................................. 35 
7.2 Computing Resources, Software, and/or Data Are Corrupted ............................................ 35 
7.3 Entity Private Key Compromise Procedures ........................................................................ 35 
7.4 Business Continuity Capabilities After a Disaster ................................................................ 35 
8 CA OR RA TERMINATION ........................................................................................... 35 
TECHNICAL SECURITY CONTROLS ........................................................36 
1 KEY PAIR GENERATION AND INSTALLATION .................................................... 36 
1.1 Key Pair Generation ................................................................................................................ 36 
1.1.1 CA Key Pair Generation ................................................................................................................. 36 
1.1.2 RA Key Pair Generation ................................................................................................................. 36 
1.1.3 Subscriber Key Pair Generation .................................................................................................... 36 
1.2 Private Key Delivery to Subscriber ........................................................................................ 36 
1.3 Public Key Delivery to Certificate Issuer ............................................................................... 36 
1.4 CA Public Key Delivery to Relying Parties ........................................................................... 36 
1.5 Key Sizes ................................................................................................................................... 36 
1.6 Public Key Parameter Generation and Quality Checking ................................................... 38 
1.7 Key Usage Purposes (as per X.509 v3 Key Usage Field) ...................................................... 38 
2 PRIVATE KEY PROTECTION AND CRYPTOGRAPHIC MODULE 
ENGINEERING CONTROLS .............................................................................................. 38 
2.1 Cryptographic Module Standards and Controls .................................................................. 38 
2.2 Private Key (m out of n) Multi-Person Control .................................................................... 38 
2.3 Private Key Escrow .................................................................................................................. 38 
2.4 Private Key Backup ................................................................................................................. 38 
2.5 Private Key Archival ............................................................................................................... 38 
2.6 Private Key Transfer into or From a Cryptographic Module ............................................. 39 
2.7 Private Key Storage on Cryptographic Module .................................................................... 39 
2.8 Method of Activating Private Key .......................................................................................... 39 
2.9 Method of Deactivating Private Key ...................................................................................... 39 
2.10 Method of Destroying Private Key ....................................................................................... 39 
2.11 Cryptographic Module Rating .............................................................................................. 39 
3 OTHER ASPECTS OF KEY PAIR MANAGEMENT ................................................. 39 
3.1 Public Key Archival ................................................................................................................. 39 
3.2 Certificate Operational Periods and Key Pair Usage Periods ............................................. 39 

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4 ACTIVATION DATA ...................................................................................................... 40 
4.1 Activation Data Generation and Installation ........................................................................ 40 
4.2 Activation Data Protection ...................................................................................................... 40 
4.3 Other Aspects of Activation Data ........................................................................................... 40 
5 COMPUTER SECURITY CONTROLS ........................................................................ 40 
5.1 Specific Computer Security Technical Requirements .......................................................... 40 
5.2 Computer Security Rating ...................................................................................................... 40 
6 LIFE CYCLE TECHNICAL CONTROLS .................................................................... 40 
6.1 System Development Controls ................................................................................................ 40 
6.2 Security Management Controls .............................................................................................. 40 
6.3 Life Cycle Security Controls ................................................................................................... 40 
7 NETWORK SECURITY CONTROLS .......................................................................... 40 
8 TIME-STAMPING ........................................................................................................... 41 
CERTIFICATE, CRL, AND OCSP PROFILES ............................................41 
1 CERTIFICATE PROFILE .............................................................................................. 41 
1.1 Version Number(s) ................................................................................................................... 41 
1.2 Certificate Extensions .............................................................................................................. 41 
1.2.1 Root CA Certificate ......................................................................................................................... 41 
1.2.2. Subordinate CA Certificate ........................................................................................................... 43 
1.2.3 Subscriber Certificate ..................................................................................................................... 43 
1.2.4 All Certificates ................................................................................................................................. 45 
1.2.5 Application of RFC 5280................................................................................................................. 45 
1.3 Algorithm Object Identifiers ................................................................................................... 45 
1.4 Name Forms ............................................................................................................................. 45 
1.4.1. Issuer Information .......................................................................................................................... 45 
1.4.2. Subject Information – Subscriber Certificates ............................................................................ 45 
1.4.2.1. Subject Alternative Name Extension .................................................................................... 45 
1.4.2.2. Subject Distinguished Name Fields ....................................................................................... 45 
1.4.3. Subject Information – Root Certificates and Subordinate CA Certificates .............................. 45 
1.4.3.1. Subject Distinguished Name Fields ....................................................................................... 45 
1.5 Name Constraints ..................................................................................................................... 46 
1.6 Certificate Policy Object Identifier ........................................................................................ 46 
1.6.1 Reserved Certificate Policy Object Identifiers .............................................................................. 46 
1.6.2 Root CA Certificates ....................................................................................................................... 46 
1.6.3 Subordinate CA Certificates .......................................................................................................... 46 
1.6.4 Subscriber Certificates .................................................................................................................... 46 
1.7 Usage of Policy Constraints Extension ................................................................................... 46 
1.8 Policy Qualifiers Syntax and Semantics ................................................................................. 46 
1.9 Processing Semantics for the Critical Certificate Policies Extension .................................. 46 
2 CRL PROFILE .................................................................................................................. 46 
2.1 Version Number(s) ................................................................................................................... 46 
2.2 CRL and CRL Entry Extensions ............................................................................................ 46 
3 OCSP PROFILE ............................................................................................................... 46 
3.1 Version Number(s) ................................................................................................................... 47 
3.2 OCSP Extensions ..................................................................................................................... 47 

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COMPLIANCE AUDIT AND OTHER ASSESSMENTS .............................47 
1 FREQUENCY AND CIRCUMSTANCES OF ASSESSMENT ................................... 47 
2 IDENTITY/QUALIFICATIONS OF ASSESSOR ......................................................... 47 
3 ASSESSOR'S RELATIONSHIP TO ASSESSED ENTITY ......................................... 47 
4 TOPICS COVERED BY ASSESSMENT ....................................................................... 47 
5 ACTIONS TAKEN AS A RESULT OF DEFICIENCY ............................................... 47 
6 COMMUNICATION OF RESULTS .............................................................................. 48 
7 SELF-AUDITS .................................................................................................................. 48 
OTHER BUSINESS AND LEGAL MATTERS .............................................48 
1 FEES ................................................................................................................................... 48 
1.1 Certificate Issuance or Renewal Fees ..................................................................................... 48 
1.2 Certificate Access Fees ............................................................................................................. 48 
1.3 Revocation or Status Information Access Fees ..................................................................... 48 
1.4 Fees for Other Services ............................................................................................................ 48 
1.5 Refund Policy ........................................................................................................................... 48 
2 FINANCIAL RESPONSIBILITY ................................................................................... 48 
2.1 Insurance Coverage ................................................................................................................. 48 
2.2 Other Assets .............................................................................................................................. 49 
2.3 Insurance or Warranty Coverage for End-Entities .............................................................. 49 
3 CONFIDENTIALITY OF BUSINESS INFORMATION ............................................. 49 
3.1 Scope of Confidential Information ......................................................................................... 49 
3.2 Information Not Within the Scope of Confidential Information ......................................... 49 
3.3 Responsibility to Protect Confidential Information .............................................................. 49 
4 PRIVACY OF PERSONAL INFORMATION .............................................................. 49 
4.1 Privacy Plan .............................................................................................................................. 49 
4.2 Information Treated as Private .............................................................................................. 50 
4.3 Information Not Deemed Private ........................................................................................... 50 
4.4 Responsibility to Protect Private Information ...................................................................... 50 
4.5 Notice and Consent to Use Private Information .................................................................... 50 
4.6 Disclosure Pursuant to Judicial or Administrative Process ................................................. 50 
4.7 Other Information Disclosure Circumstances ....................................................................... 50 
5 INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY RIGHTS ..................................................................... 50 
6 REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES ............................................................... 50 
6.1 CA Representations and Warranties ..................................................................................... 51 
6.2 RA Representations and Warranties ..................................................................................... 51 
6.3 Subscriber Representations and Warranties......................................................................... 51 
6.4 Relying Party Representations and Warranties .................................................................... 51 
6.5 Representations and Warranties of Other Participants ....................................................... 51 
7 DISCLAIMERS OF WARRANTIES ............................................................................. 51 
8 LIMITATIONS OF LIABILITY ..................................................................................... 51 
9 INDEMNITIES ................................................................................................................. 52 
9.1 Indemnification by CAs ........................................................................................................... 52 

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9.2 Indemnification by Subscribers .............................................................................................. 52 
9.3 Indemnification by Relying Parties ........................................................................................ 52 
10 TERM AND TERMINATION ....................................................................................... 53 
10.1 Term ........................................................................................................................................ 53 
10.2 Termination ............................................................................................................................ 53 
10.3 Effect of Termination and Survival ...................................................................................... 53 
11 INDIVIDUAL NOTICES AND COMMUNICATIONS WITH PARTICIPANTS .. 53 
12 AMENDMENTS.............................................................................................................. 53 
12.1 Procedure for Amendment .................................................................................................... 53 
12.2 Notification Mechanism and Period ..................................................................................... 53 
12.3 Circumstances under which OID must be changed ............................................................ 53 
13 DISPUTE RESOLUTION PROVISIONS .................................................................... 54 
14 GOVERNING LAW ....................................................................................................... 54 
15 COMPLIANCE WITH APPLICABLE LAW ............................................................. 54 
16 MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS .............................................................................. 54 
16.1 Entire Agreement ................................................................................................................... 54 
16.2 Assignment .............................................................................................................................. 54 
16.3 Severability ............................................................................................................................. 54 
16.4 Enforcement (attorneys' fees and waiver of rights) ............................................................ 55 
16.5 Force Majeure ........................................................................................................................ 55 
17 OTHER PROVISIONS .................................................................................................. 55 
 
 

Microsoft PKI Services Corporate Certification Practice Statement (CPS) v3.1.7

1. INTRODUCTION

1.1 OVERVIEW

This Certification Practice Statement (CPS) is the principle document that governs the minimum

requirements for the public and private lifecycle management of Microsoft PKI Services’

Certification Authority (CA) solutions and services for Microsoft Product Groups and affiliated

entities operating within the Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) Certification Authority (CA)

hierarchies.

Microsoft PKI Services uses two CPS documents to differentiate its internal (not publicly

trusted) from its external (publicly trusted) CA operations, as they are regulated by separate

compliance authorities and/or levels. This CPS governs the private PKI of Microsoft PKI

Services.

Other important documents that accompany this CPS include the presiding CP and associated

subscriber and relying party agreements. Microsoft may publish additional Certificate Policies

or Certification Practice Statements, as necessary, to describe other products or service offerings.

This CPS conforms to the Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF) RFC 3647 standards for the

creation of Certificate Policy (CP) and Certification Practices Statement (CPS) documents.

1.2 DOCUMENT NAME AND IDENTIFICATION

This document is formally referred to as the “Microsoft PKI Services Certification Practice

Statement” (referred to as “CPS”). Microsoft CAs SHALL issue certificates in accordance with

the policy and practice requirements of this document. The Object Identifier (OID) for this CPS

is: 1.3.6.1.4.1.311.76.509.1.3

1.2.1 Revisions

See Appendix A

1.2.2 Relevant Dates

No Stipulation

1.3 PKI PARTICIPANTS

1.3.1 Certification Authorities

The term Certification Authority (CA) collectively refers an entity or organization that is

responsible for the authorization, issuance, revocation, and life cycle management of a

certificate. The term equally applies to Roots CAs and Subordinate CAs.

The two main categories of CAs that exist within the Microsoft PKI Services’ PKI hierarchy are

the Root CAs and Subordinate CAs. Up-to-date records of CAs are maintained by Microsoft

PKI Services.

Obligations of the CAs within the Microsoft PKI Services PKI hierarchy include:

Microsoft PKI Services Corporate Certification Practice Statement (CPS) v3.1.7

• Generating, issuing and distributing public key certificates in accordance with this CPS;

• Distributing CA certificates;

• Generating and publishing certificate status information (such as CRLs);

• Maintaining the security, availability, and continuity of the certificate issuance and CRL

signing functions;

• Providing a means for Subscribers to request revocation;

• Ensuring that changes in certificate status are reflected in their own repositories and those of

authorized certificate validation authorities within the times specified in Section 4 of this

CPS.

• Ensuring that changes in certificate status are reflected in its own repositories and those of

authorized certificate validation authorities within the times specified in Section 4 of this

CPS.

1.3.1.1 Root CAs

Root CAs serve as the “trust anchors” for the Microsoft PKI Services CA hierarchy and issue

any new CAs for different types of PKI services.

1.3.1.2 Subordinate CAs

The primary function of Subordinate CAs is to issue additional CAs and/or Subscriber

certificates.

1.3.1.3 Issuing CAs

The primary function of an Issuing CA is to issue Subscriber certificates to internal Microsoft

Product Groups or approved 3

Party entities. Issuing CAs are further classified in the following

categories:

• Microsoft PKI Services managed CAs: this category consists of CAs hosted and managed

by the Microsoft PKI Services team.

• Microsoft PKI Operating Group (POG) managed CAs: this category consists of CAs that

are hosted and managed by affiliated Microsoft Product Groups Roots and are subordinate to

Root CAs managed by the Microsoft PKI Services team.

1.3.2 Registration Authorities

No RA functions are delegated to third parties by Microsoft PKI Services.

1.3.3 Subscribers

A Subscriber, as defined in Section 1.6, is the end entity whose name or identifier appears as the

subject in a certificate, and who uses its key and certificate in accordance with this CPS.

Subscribers within Microsoft PKI Services hierarchy MAY be issued certificates for assignment

to devices, groups, organizational roles or applications, provided that responsibility and

Microsoft PKI Services Corporate Certification Practice Statement (CPS) v3.1.7

accountability is attributable to the organization.

Obligations of Subscribers within the Microsoft PKI Services PKI hierarchy include:

• Reading and accepting the terms and conditions of the Subscriber Agreement

• Being responsible for the generation of the key pair for their certificate

• Submitting public keys and credentials for registration

• Providing information to the RA that is accurate and complete to the best of the Subscribers’

knowledge and belief regarding information in their certificates and identification and

authentication information

• Taking appropriate measures to protect their private keys from compromise

• Promptly reporting loss or compromise of private key(s) and inaccuracy of certificate

information

1.3.4 Relying Parties

A Relying Party is an individual or entity that acts in reliance on a Certificate or digital signature

associated with a Certificate.

1.3.5 Other Participants

Other participants include entities or groups that have participated in the development of this

CPS and presiding CP, and any authorities that have contributed to the requirements and

guidelines governing the issuance and management of certificates.

1.4 CERTIFICATE USAGE

1.4.1 Appropriate Certificate Uses

Microsoft PKI Services has established policy and technical constraints to define appropriate

uses for issued certificates and provides reasonable controls to ensure the certificates are used for

their intended purpose.

Certificates issued by the Microsoft PKI Services are used in accordance with the key usage

extensions and extended key usage of the respective Certificates and adhere to the terms and

conditions of this CPS, the presiding CP, any agreements with subscribers, and applicable laws.

Relying Parties SHALL evaluate the application environment and associated risks before

deciding on whether to use certificates issued under this CPS.

1.4.2 Prohibited Certificate Uses

Use of certificates in violation of this CPS, applicable laws, and/or key usage constraints, is

unauthorized and prohibited. Microsoft PKI Services reserves the right to revoke certificates that

violate their designated usage.

Microsoft PKI Services Corporate Certification Practice Statement (CPS) v3.1.7

1.5 POLICY ADMINISTRATION

1.5.1 Organization Administering the Document

The Microsoft PKI Policy Authority is responsible for the maintenance of this CPS

1.5.2 Contact Person

Contact information is listed below:

PKI Service Manager

Microsoft Corporation

One Microsoft Way

Redmond, WA 98052-6399

Email: CentralPKI@microsoft.com

To request certificate revocation or to report security issues such as suspected key compromise, certificate

misuse, fraud or other matters, contact CentralPKI@microsoft.com.

1.5.3 Person Determining CPS Suitability for the Policy

Microsoft PKI Policy Authority determines suitability and applicability of this CPS, in

accordance with the CP.

1.5.4 CPS Approval Procedures

The Microsoft PKI Policy Authority reviews and approves any changes to this CPS, in

compliance with the CP.

1.6 DEFINITIONS AND ACRONYMS

Capitalized terms and acronyms, not included herein, MAY be specified in the Certificate Policy.

1.6.1 Definitions

• Affiliate – A corporation, partnership, joint venture or other entity controlling, controlled by,

or under common control with another entity, or an agency, department, political subdivision,

or any entity operating under the direct control of a Government Entity.

• Applicant – a natural person or Legal Entity that applies for (or seeks renewal of) a

Certificate by a CA.

• Application Software Supplier – A supplier of Internet browser software or other relying‐

party application software that displays or uses Certificates and incorporates Root

Certificates.

• Authorized Ports: One of the following ports: 80 (http), 443 (https), 25 (smtp), 22 (ssh).

Microsoft PKI Services Corporate Certification Practice Statement (CPS) v3.1.7

• Baseline Requirements (BR) – An integrated set of technologies, protocols, identity‐

proofing, lifecycle management, and auditing requirements issued by the CA/Browser Forum

and available at cabforum.org.

• CA/Browser Forum (CAB Forum) – A consortium of certification authorities, vendors of

Internet browser software, operating systems, and other PKI-enabled applications that

promulgates industry guidelines governing the issuance and management of digital

certificates. Details are available at: cabforum.org.

• Certificate – A digital record that contains information such as the Subscriber’s

distinguished name and public key, and the signer's signature and data.

• Certificate Application – a request from a Certificate Applicant (or authorized agent of the

Certificate Applicant) to a CA for the issuance of a Certificate.

• Certificate Request – an application for a new Certificate or a renewal of a Certificate.

• Certificate Revocation List (CRL) – periodically published listing of all certificates that

have been revoked for use by Relying Parties

• Certificate Signing Request (CSR) – a message sent to the certification authority

containing the information required to issue a digital certificate

• Certification Authority (CA) – an entity or organization that is responsible for the

authorization, issuance, revocation, and management of a certificate. The term equally

applies to Roots CAs and Subordinate CAs.

• Certificate Owner – Parties designated by business process owners to be associated with

and/or have responsibility for specified issued certificates.

• Certificate Policy (CP) – A set of rules that indicates the applicability of a named Certificate

to a particular community and/or PKI implementation with common security requirements.

• Certification Practice Statement (CPS) – One of several documents forming the

governance framework in which Certificates are created, issued, managed, and used.

• Distinguished Name (DN) – a globally unique identifier representing a Subject that is used

on Certificates and in the Repository

• Extended Key Usage – An extension in an X.509 certificate to indicate the allowed

purpose(s) for the use of the public key. Also referenced or known as “Enhanced Key

Usage”.

• Issuing CA – The first digital certificate issuing authority who issues certificates signed by

the root certificate authority (CA).

• Legal Entity – An association, corporation, partnership, proprietorship, trust, or government

entity that has legal standing in a country’s legal system.

• Microsoft PKI Oversight Committee – The overseer of the Microsoft PKI Services Policy

Microsoft PKI Services Corporate Certification Practice Statement (CPS) v3.1.7

Authority (PA) and consists of the Vice Presidents from at least three appropriate groups

across Microsoft.

• Microsoft PKI Operating Group (POG) – a group of cross-company or divisional teams

that manage a PKI hierarchy, which includes as least one CA.

• Microsoft PKI Policy Authority – consists of two governing bodies. The Microsoft PKI

Steering Committee and the Microsoft PKI Oversight Committee.

• Microsoft PKI Services – the Microsoft PKI Certification and Registration Authority that

manages keys, certificates, and the provisioning of certificates.

• Microsoft PKI Standards – A collection of policies and procedures that any Microsoft

organization must follow to operate PKI services. All PKI Operating Groups (POGs) at

Microsoft must demonstrate compliance with these standards.

• Microsoft PKI Steering Committee – the primary decision-making body that exercises its

authority in support of Microsoft PKI Service’s endeavors, maintaining alignment between

business strategy and technical governance. It consists of PKI subject matter experts from

across Microsoft.

• Online CA – a certification authority system which signs end-entity Subscriber Certificates

that are operated and maintained in an online state so as to provide continually available

certificate signing services. Online CAs reside in segmented, secured, and functionally

dedicated networks.

• Offline CA – A root CA, subordinate CA, or issuing CA that are maintained offline for

security reasons in order to protect them from possible attacks by intruders over the network.

• Private Key – The key of a key pair that is kept secret by the holder of the key pair, and that

is used to create digital signatures and/or to decrypt electronic records or files that were

encrypted with the corresponding Public Key.

• Public Key – The key of a key pair that may be publicly disclosed by the holder of the

corresponding Private Key and that is used by a Relying Party to verify digital signatures

created with the holder corresponding Private Key and/or to encrypt messages so that they

can be decrypted only with the holder’s corresponding Private Key.

• Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) – A set of hardware, software, people, procedures, rules,

policies, and obligations used to facilitate the trustworthy creation, issuance, management,

and use of Certificates and keys based on Public Key Cryptography.

• Registration Authority (RA) – Any Legal Entity that is responsible for identification and

authentication of Subjects of Certificates, but is not a CA, and hence does not sign or issue

Certificates. An RA MAY assist in the Certificate application process or revocation process

or both. When “RA” is used as an adjective to describe a role or function, it does not

necessarily imply a separate body, but can be part of the CA.

• Registration Identifier – the unique code assigned to an Applicant by the Incorporating or

Microsoft PKI Services Corporate Certification Practice Statement (CPS) v3.1.7

Registration Agency in such entity’s Jurisdiction of Incorporation or Registration.

• Relying Party – a Relying Party is an individual or entity that acts in reliance on a Certificate

or digital signature associated with a Certificate.

• Relying Party Agreement – an agreement which specifies the stipulations under which a

person or organization acts as a Relying Party

• Repository – an online database containing publicly‐disclosed PKI governance documents

(such as Certificate Policies and Certification Practice Statements) and Certificate status

information, either in the form of a CRL or an OCSP response.

• Root CA – The top-level CA whose root certificate is distributed by Application Software

Suppliers and that issues Subordinate CA Certificates.

• Signing Service – an organization that signs an Object on behalf of a Subscriber using a

Private Key associated with a Code Signing Certificate.

• Subscriber – an individual or end-entity (person, device, or application) that has been issued

a Certificate and is authorized to use the Private Key that corresponds to the Public Key in

the Certificate

• Subscriber Agreement – an agreement containing the terms and conditions that the

authorized Subscriber consented to for the use of their issued certificate, containing the

private key and corresponding public key.

• Suspect Code – code that contains malicious functionality or serious vulnerabilities,

including spyware, malware and other code that installs without the user’s consent and/or

resists its own removal, and code that can be exploited in ways not intended by its designers

to compromise the trustworthiness of the Platforms on which it executes.

• Takeover Attack – an attack where a Signing Service or Private Key associated with the

Code Signing Certificate has been compromised by means of fraud, theft, intentional

malicious act of the Subject’s agent, or other illegal conduct.

• Technically Constrained Subordinate CA Certificate – a Subordinate CA certificate

which uses a combination of Extended Key Usage settings and Name Constraint settings to

limit the scope within which the Subordinate CA Certificate MAY issue Subscriber or

additional Subordinate CA Certificates.

• TimeStamp Authority – a service operated by the CA or a delegated third party for its own

code signing certificate users that timestamps data using a certificate chained to a public root,

thereby asserting that the data (or the data from which the data were derived via secure

hashing algorithm) existed at the specific time.

• Transport Layer Security (TLS)/Secure Socket Layer (SSL) – a security protocol that is

widely used in the Internet, for the purpose of authentication and establishing secure sessions

• Trusted Role – An employee or contractor of a CA or Delegated Third Party who has

Microsoft PKI Services Corporate Certification Practice Statement (CPS) v3.1.7

authorized access to or control over a Secure Zone or High Security Zone.

• WebTrust for Certification Authorities (WTCA) - a program that helps ensure proper

procedures are followed by Certification Authorities (CAs) for activities involving e-

commerce transactions, public key infrastructure (PKI), and cryptography.

1.6.2 Acronyms

Term

Definition

Certification Authority

CAA

Certification Authority Authorization

Certificate Policy

CPS

Certification Practice Statement

CRL

Certificate Revocation List

DBA

Doing Business As

FIPS

(US Government) Federal Information Processing Standard

HSM

Hardware Security Module

IETF

Internet Engineering Task Force

OCSP

Online Certificate Status Protocol

OID

Object Identifier

PKI

Public Key Infrastructure

Registration Authority

SSL

Secure Socket Layer

TLS

Transport Layer Security

TTL

Time to Live

1.6.3 References

Microsoft PKI Services Corporate Certification Practice Statement (CPS) v3.1.7

CA/Browser Forum Baseline Requirements Certificate Policy for the Issuance and Management

of Publicly‐Trusted Certificates (“Baseline Requirements”)

FIPS 140-2, Federal Information Processing Standards Publication - Security Requirements For

Cryptographic Modules, Information Technology Laboratory, National Institute of Standards and

Technology, May 25, 2001.

RFC2119, Request for Comments: 2119, Key words for use in RFCs to Indicate Requirement

Levels, Bradner, March 1997.

RFC3647, Request for Comments: 3647, Internet X.509 Public Key Infrastructure: Certificate

Policy and Certification Practices Framework, Chokhani, et al, November 2003.

RFC5019, Request for Comments: 5019, The Lightweight Online Certificate Status Protocol

(OCSP) Profile for High-Volume Environments, A. Deacon, et al, September 2007.

RFC5280, Request for Comments: 5280, Internet X.509 Public Key Infrastructure: Certificate

and Certificate Revocation List (CRL) Profile, Cooper et al, May 2008.

RFC6960, Request for Comments: 6960, X.509 Internet Public Key Infrastructure Online

Certiﬁcate Status Protocol ‐ OCSP. Santesson, Myers, Ankney, Malpani, Galperin, Adams, June

2013.

WebTrustforCertiﬁcationAuthorities,SSLBaselinewithNetworkSecurity,Version2.0, available at

http://www.webtrust.org/homepage‐documents/item79806.pdf.

X.509, Recommendation ITU‐T X.509 (10/2012) | ISO/IEC 9594‐8:2014 (E), Information

technology – Open Systems Interconnection – The Directory: Public‐key and attribute certificate

frameworks.

1.6.4 Conventions

The key words “MUST”, “MUST NOT”, "REQUIRED", "SHALL", "SHALL NOT",

“SHOULD", "SHOULD NOT", "RECOMMENDED", "MAY", and "OPTIONAL" in these

Requirements SHALL be interpreted in accordance with RFC 2119.

2. PUBLICATION AND REPOSITORY RESPONSIBILITIES

2.1 REPOSITORIES

A repository of Microsoft PKI Services CA information and associated policy documents is

maintained by Microsoft PKI Services and SHALL be made available upon request.

2.2 PUBLICATION OF CERTIFICATION INFORMATION

A web-based repository is available to all relying parties who wish to access to this CPS and

other information from Microsoft PKI Services. The repository SHALL contain the current

versions of this CPS and accompanying CP, a fingerprint of the established Root CAs, current

CRLs, qualified Auditor Reports, Subscriber and Relying Party Agreements, a Privacy

Statement, and other Terms of Use information.

Microsoft PKI Services Corporate Certification Practice Statement (CPS) v3.1.7

2.3 TIME OR FREQUENCY OF PUBLICATION

Microsoft PKI Services SHALL annually review this CPS for any changes to internal PKI

practices or the presiding Certificate Policy.

Updates SHALL be published annually, in accordance with Section 1.5, and the document

version number SHALL be incremented to account for the annual review and potential

content revisions.

New versions of this CPS and respective CP documents will become effective immediately for

all participants listed in Section 1.3.

Microsoft PKI Services offers CRLs showing the revocation status of Microsoft PKI

Services Certificates. CRLs will be published in accordance with Section 4.9.6 and Section

4.9.7.

2.4 ACCESS CONTROLS ON REPOSITORIES

Microsoft PKI Services SHALL not limit access to this CP, their CPS, Certiﬁcates, CRLs and

Certiﬁcate status information. Microsoft PKI Services SHALL however implement controls to

prevent unauthorized adding, modifying or deleting repository entries.

3. IDENTIFICATION AND AUTHENTICATION

3.1 NAMING

3.1.1 Type of Names

Certificates SHALL be issued in accordance with the X.509 v3 standard. The certificate profiles

for specifying names SHALL conform with requirements in Section 7.

3.1.2 Need for Names to be Meaningful

Distinguished names SHALL identify both the entity (i.e. person, organization, device, or object)

that is the subject of the certificate and the entity that is the issuer of the certificate.

3.1.3 Anonymity or Pseudonymity of Subscribers

No Stipulation

3.1.4 Rules for Interpreting Various Name Forms

No Stipulation

3.1.5 Uniqueness of Names

No Stipulation

3.1.6 Recognition, Authentication, and Role of Trademarks

Certificate Applicants SHALL NOT use names in their certificate request that infringes upon the

intellectual property rights of entities outside of their authority.

Microsoft PKI Services Corporate Certification Practice Statement (CPS) v3.1.7

3.2 INITIAL IDENTITY VALIDATION

3.2.1 Method to Prove Possession of Private Key

The Registration and/or Issuance process SHALL involve procedures in which the applicant

demonstrates possession of the Private Key by using a method approved by Microsoft PKI

Services.

In cases where a key pair is generated by the CA on behalf of a Subscriber, proof of possession

of the private key is not required.

3.2.2 Authentication of Organization Identity

All Microsoft employees (full-time and part-time) may submit requests for Certificates/Keys to

be issued by CAs managed and hosted by Microsoft PKI Services. The Subscriber’s employment

with Microsoft shall be verified with the existence of a valid Microsoft issued smart-card

employee badge, in order to submit requests. A smart-card or other multi-factor authentication

method is not required in the case of automated/systematic request.

3.2.2.1 Identity

No Stipulation

3.2.2.2 DBA/Tradename

No Stipulation

3.2.2.3 Verification of Country

No Stipulation

3.2.2.4 Validation of Domain Authorization or Control

No Stipulation

3.2.2.4.1 Validating the Applicant as a Domain Contact

No Stipulation

3.2.2.4.2 Email, Fax, SMS, or Postal Mail to Domain Contact

No Stipulation

3.2.2.4.3 Phone Contact with Domain Contact

No Stipulation

3.2.2.4.4 Constructed Email to Domain Contact

No Stipulation

3.2.2.4.5 Domain Authorization Document

No Stipulation

Microsoft PKI Services Corporate Certification Practice Statement (CPS) v3.1.7

3.2.2.4.6 Agreed-Upon Change to Website

No Stipulation

3.2.2.4.7 DNS Change

No Stipulation

3.2.2.4.8 IP Address

No Stipulation

3.2.2.4.9 Test Certificate

No Stipulation

3.2.2.4.10 TLS Using a Random Number

No Stipulation

3.2.2.4.11 Any Other Methods

This method has been retired and MUST NOT be used.

3.2.2.4.12 Validating Applicant as a Domain Contact

No Stipulation

3.2.2.5 Authentication for an IP Address

No Stipulation

3.2.2.6 Wildcard Domain Validation

No Stipulation

3.2.2.7 Data Source Accuracy

No Stipulation

3.2.2.8 CAA Records

No Stipulation

3.2.3 Authentication of Individual Identity

No Stipulation

3.2.4 Non-Verified Subscriber Information

No Stipulation

3.2.5 Validation of Authority

No Stipulation

Microsoft PKI Services Corporate Certification Practice Statement (CPS) v3.1.7

3.2.6 Criteria for Interoperation

No Stipulation

3.2.7 Criteria for PKI Operating Groups

At least one of the following criteria options SHALL be used to determine if a third party and/or

Microsoft PKI Operating Group (POG) should receive a Subordinate CA from Microsoft PKI

Services.

• A signed contractual agreement between Microsoft and the entity operating the CA

• The entity operating the CA maintains an annual WTCA certification of their CA

services and provides sufficient evidence of such certification to Microsoft PKI Services

• A Microsoft PKI Operating Group (POG) receiving the CA has completed an internal

compliance assessment against Microsoft PKI Standards

• The Microsoft PKI Steering Committee and the team performing an internal compliance

assessment against the Microsoft PKI Standards have approved issuance of Subordinate

CA(s) to the third party or Microsoft PKI Operating Group (POG)

3.3 IDENTIFICATION AND AUTHENTICATION FOR RE-KEY REQUESTS

3.3.1 Identification and Authentication for Routine Re-Key

Microsoft PKI Services CAs SHALL treat certificate re-key requests identical to applications for

new certificates.

3.3.2 Identification and Authentication for Re-Key After Revocation

Revoked or Expired Certificates SHALL require a new enrollment. Applicants MUST

submit a new Certificate Request and be subject to the same Identification and

Authentication requirements as first-time applicants, as specified in Section 3.2.2 of

this CPS.

3.4 IDENTIFICATION AND AUTHENTICATION FOR REVOCATION REQUEST

A Certificate Revocation Request that is submitted electronically MAY be authenticated and

approved, providing the request comes from the subscriber or an approved authority. The

identity of the person or end-entity submitting a revocation request in any other manner SHALL

be authenticated per Section 3.2.2.

4. CERTIFICATE LIFE-CYCLE OPERATIONAL REQUIREMENTS

4.1 CERTIFICATE APPLICATION

4.1.1 Who Can Submit a Certificate Application

Certificate Applications MAY be submitted by an Applicant or authorized Certificate Requestor,

provided the Certificate Request meets the requirements set forth in this CPS and/or CP.

Requests MAY be submitted from designated business users from Microsoft product groups or

by the Microsoft PKI Services team on behalf of customers.

Microsoft PKI Services Corporate Certification Practice Statement (CPS) v3.1.7

4.1.2 Enrollment Process and Responsibilities

Prior to the issuance of a certificate, an Applicant SHALL perform the following:

1. Complete and submit a digitally signed certificate request.

2. Have an approved Subscriber Agreement, which MAY be an electronic

acknowledgement.

3. Consent to any other terms and conditions, which MAY be an electronic

acknowledgement.

Certificate Applicants are required to fully comply with the aforementioned prior to certificate

issuance.

4.2 CERTIFICATE APPLICATION PROCESSING

4.2.1 Performing Identification and Authentication Functions

Certificate Applications are reviewed and processed, per the Identification and Authentication

requirements in Section 3.2.2.

Certificate requests MAY be subject to additional verification activities, as outlined in

documented procedures, prior to approving the request.

4.2.2 Approval or Rejection of Certificate Applications

Submitted Certificate applications, MUST be reviewed and approved by Microsoft PKI Services

or appointed RA prior to issuance. Certificate Applications MAY be approved if the

requirements of Section 3.2.2 are met.

The certificate application MAY be rejected for any of, but not limited to, the following reasons:

• Applicant or Subscriber information is unable to be verified, per Section 3.2.2;

• Microsoft PKI Services deems the certificate issuance MAY negatively impact their

business or reputation;

• Failure to consent to the Subscriber Agreement;

• Failure to consent to any other terms and conditions

Microsoft PKI Services reserves the right to not disclose reasons for refusal.

4.2.3 Time to Process Certificate Applications

Certification applications SHALL be processed within a commercially reasonable time frame.

Microsoft PKI Services SHALL NOT be responsible for processing delays initiated by the

applicant or from events outside of the CA’s control.

4.3 CERTIFICATE ISSUANCE

4.3.1 CA Actions During Certificate Issuance

The source of the certificate request SHALL be verified before issuance. Certificates are

generated, issued and distributed only after the CA or RA performs the required identification

Microsoft PKI Services Corporate Certification Practice Statement (CPS) v3.1.7

and authentication steps in accordance with Section 3. Certificates SHALL be checked to ensure

that all fields and extensions are properly populated. Exceptions to defined Certificate Policies

MUST be approved by the Microsoft PKI Policy Authority.

4.3.2 Notification to Subscriber by the CA of Issuance of Certificate

Upon issuance, Subscribers SHALL be notified via an email or another agreed upon method with

information about the issued Certificate.

4.4 CERTIFICATE ACCEPTANCE

4.4.1 Conduct Constituting Certificate Acceptance

A Subscriber’s receipt of a certificate and subsequent use of the certificate and its key pair

constitutes certificate acceptance. It is the sole responsibility of the Subscriber to install the

issued certificate on their designated system.

4.4.2 Publication of the Certificate by the CA

Certificates SHALL be published in the Microsoft PKI Services repository.

4.4.3 Notification of Certificate Issuance by the CA to Other Entities

No Stipulation

4.5 KEY PAIR AND CERTIFICATE USAGE

4.5.1 Subscriber Private Key and Certificate Usage

Use of the private key corresponding to the public key in the certificate SHALL only be permitted

once the Subscriber has agreed to the Subscriber agreement and accepted the certificate.

Subscribers and CAs SHALL use their private keys for the purposes as constrained by the

extensions (such as key usage, extended key usage, certificate policies, etc.) in the certificates

issued to them.

Subscribers SHALL protect their private keys from unauthorized use and discontinue use of the

private key following expiration or revocation of the certificate.

Subscribers SHALL contact the issuing entity if the Private Key is compromised.

4.5.2 Relying Party Public Key and Certificate Usage

Relying parties SHALL use public key certificates and associated public keys for the sole

purposes as constrained by this CPS or the CP and Certificate extensions (such as key usage,

extended key usage, certificate policies, etc.) in the certificates. Relying Parties are subject to

the terms of the Relying Party Agreement.

4.6 CERTIFICATE RENEWAL

4.6.1 Circumstance for Certificate Renewal

Subscribers are responsible for the renewal of certificates to maintain service continuity.

Microsoft PKI Services Corporate Certification Practice Statement (CPS) v3.1.7

4.6.2 Who May Request Renewal

Certificate Renewals MAY be requested by the Subscriber or an authorized agent, providing the

renewal request meets the requirements set forth in this CPS and the presiding CP.

4.6.3 Processing Certificate Renewal Requests

Renewal requests follow the same validation and authentication procedures as a new certificate

request and MAY re-use the information provided with the original certificate request, for means

of verification; however, new key pairs are required.

4.6.4 Notification of New Certificate Issuance to Subscriber

Certificate Renewals SHALL follow the same notification method as a new certificate, in

accordance with Section 4.3.2.

4.6.5 Conduct Constituting Acceptance of a Renewal Certificate

Certificate Renewals SHALL follow the same acceptance method as a new certificate, in

accordance with Section 4.4.1.

4.6.6 Publication of the Renewal Certificate by the CA

Certificate Renewals SHALL follow the same publication method as a new certificate, in

accordance with Section 4.4.2.

4.6.7 Notification of Certificate Issuance by the CA to Other Entities

Certificate notifications to other entities SHALL follow the same entity notification method as a

new certificate, in accordance with Section 4.4.3.

4.7 CERTIFICATE RE-KEY

Microsoft PKI Services CAs SHALL treat certificate re-key requests identical to applications for

new certificates and perform the same identity-proofing processes, as described in Section 3.2.2,

and the same acceptance methods, as described in Section 4.4. Routine re-key of the CA

certificates SHALL be performed in accordance with the established key generation process of

Section 6.1 in this CPS.

4.7.1 Circumstance for Certificate Re-Key

No stipulation

4.7.2 Who May Request Certification of a New Public Key

No stipulation

4.7.3 Processing Certificate Re-keying Requests

No stipulation

4.7.4 Notification of New Certificate Issuance to Subscriber

No stipulation

Microsoft PKI Services Corporate Certification Practice Statement (CPS) v3.1.7

4.7.5 Conduct Constituting Acceptance of a Re-keyed Certificate

No stipulation

4.7.6 Publication of the Re-keyed Certificate by the CA

No stipulation

4.7.7 Notification of Certificate Issuance by the CA to Other Entities

No stipulation

4.8 CERTIFICATE MODIFICATION

Modification to an issued Certificate’s details is not permitted. The certificate MUST first be

revoked, core subscriber information must remain the same (domain name, DUNS/SSN, etc.),

and only inconsequential information must have changed (email address, phone number, etc),

before modifications to the Subscriber information are allowed. The replacement certificate

doesn’t require the same identity and authentication procedures as a new applicant (as in Section

4.2.1), and SHALL be issued with new validity dates.

4.8.1 Circumstance for Certificate Modification

No stipulation

4.8.2 Who May Request Certificate Modification

No stipulation

4.8.3 Processing Certificate Modification Requests

No stipulation

4.8.4 Notification of New Certificate Issuance to Subscriber

No stipulation

4.8.5 Conduct Constituting Acceptance of Modified Certificate

No stipulation

4.8.6 Publication of the Modified Certificate by the CA

No stipulation

4.8.7 Notification of Certificate Issuance by the CA to Other Entities

No stipulation

4.9 CERTIFICATE REVOCATION AND SUSPENSION

4.9.1 Circumstances for Revocation

Revocation MAY take place at the discretion of Microsoft PKI Services upon receiving

information of a security or integrity threat to the certificate, a Subscriber, or Relying Party.

Microsoft PKI Services Corporate Certification Practice Statement (CPS) v3.1.7

Any subscriber can request a revocation, but they are required to provide justification.

Microsoft PKI Services, if approved, will process revocation. In some cases, PKI Policy

Authority approval MAY be required.

4.9.1.1 Reasons for Revoking a Subscriber Certificate

A Subscriber Certificate revocation request SHALL commence an investigation and plan for

revocation within 24 hours if any of the circumstances in Section 4.9.1 occur.

4.9.1.2 Reasons for Revoking a Subordinate CA Certificate

A Subordinate CA Certificate revocation request SHALL commence an investigation and plan for

revocation within seven (7) days if any of the circumstances in Section 4.9.1 occur.

4.9.2 Who Can Request Revocation

Certificate revocation can be requested by Subscribers or Certificate Owners. Revocation

can also be initiated at the discretion of Microsoft PKI Services.

4.9.3 Procedure for Revocation Request

Microsoft PKI Services MAY process revocation requests using at least the following

steps:

1. Microsoft PKI Services SHALL log the identity of the entity submitting the

request or Certificate Problem Report and the reason for requesting revocation;

to include, CA’s reasons for revocation;

2. Microsoft PKI Services MAY request authorization of the revocation request

from the Subscriber or designated contact;

3. Microsoft PKI Services SHALL authenticate the entity making the request, per

Section 4.9.2;

4. If a request is received from a third party, Microsoft PKI Services personnel

SHALL initiate an investigation within 24 hours of receipt of the request to

determine if a revocation is applicable, based the criteria in Section 4.9.5;

5. Microsoft PKI Services SHALL verify the requested revocation reason aligns

with those in Section 4.9.1.1 or 4.9.1.2;

6. If Microsoft PKI Services determines that revocation is appropriate, the

certificate MAY be revoked and the CRL updated.

Microsoft PKI Services SHALL maintain a 24x7 availability to internally respond to any

high priority revocation requests. If appropriate, Microsoft PKI Services MAY forward

complaints to law enforcement.

4.9.4 Revocation Request Grace Period

Subscribers are required to request revocation within a commercially reasonable amount of time

after detecting the loss or compromise of the Private Key (within 24 hours is recommended).

Microsoft PKI Services Corporate Certification Practice Statement (CPS) v3.1.7

4.9.5 Time Within Which CA Must Process the Revocation Request

Revocation requests SHALL initiate an investigation within 24 business hours of receiving the

request.

Microsoft PKI Services CAs and/or RAs SHALL consider whether revocation or other actions

are warranted based on at least following criteria:

1. The entity submitting the complaint;

2. The nature of the alleged problem;

3. The number of reports received about a certain Certificate or Subscriber problem; or

4. Relevant legislation.

4.9.6 Revocation Checking Requirement for Relying Parties

Relying Parties SHALL verify a Certificate’s validity and revocation status prior to relying on

the Certificate.

4.9.7 CRL Issuance Frequency

Microsoft PKI Services SHALL post new CRL entries as soon as a revocation request is

fulfilled.

4.9.8 Maximum Latency for CRLs

CRLs are posted to the repository within a commercially reasonable amount of time after

generation.

4.9.9 On-Line Revocation/Status Checking Availability

No Stipulation

4.9.10 On-Line Revocation Checking Requirements

No Stipulation

4.9.11 Other Forms of Revocation Advertisements Available

No Stipulation

4.9.12 Special Requirements re Key Compromise

See Section 4.9.1

4.9.13 Circumstances for Suspension

Not applicable.

4.9.14 Who Can Request Suspension

Not applicable.

4.9.15 Procedure for Suspension Request

Not applicable.

Microsoft PKI Services Corporate Certification Practice Statement (CPS) v3.1.7

4.9.16 Limits on Suspension Period

Not applicable.

4.10 CERTIFICATE STATUS SERVICES

4.10.1 Operational Characteristics

No Stipulation

4.10.2 Service Availability

Certificate Status Services shall be available 24 x 7 without scheduled interruption.

4.10.3 Optional Features

No Stipulation

4.11 END OF SUBSCRIPTION

Certificate subscriptions end when the certificate has either been revoked or expires.

4.12 KEY ESCROW AND RECOVERY

4.12.1 Key Escrow and Recovery Policy and Practices

Not applicable.

4.12.2 Session Key Encapsulation and Recovery Policy and Practices

Not applicable.

5. FACILITY, MANAGEMENT, AND OPERATIONAL CONTROLS

5.1 PHYSICAL CONTROLS

5.1.1 Site Location and Construction

Microsoft PKI Services CA and RA operations are conducted within physically protected

environments designed to detect and prevent unauthorized use or disclosure of, or access to

sensitive information and systems. Microsoft PKI Services maintains multiple business

resumption facilities for CA and RA operations. Business resumption facilities are protected with

comparable physical and logical security controls. Business resumption facilities are at

geographically disparate locations, so that operations MAY continue if one or more locations are

disabled.

5.1.2 Physical Access

Microsoft PKI Services CA facilities are protected from unauthorized access, through the

required use of multi-factor authentication solutions. Facility security systems electronically log

ingress and egress of authorized personnel.

Microsoft PKI Services Corporate Certification Practice Statement (CPS) v3.1.7

Physical access to cryptographic systems, hardware, and activation materials are restricted by

multiple access control mechanisms, which are logged, monitored, and video recorded on a 24x7

basis.

5.1.3 Power and Air Conditioning

Microsoft PKI Services CA facilities are equipped with redundant power and climate control

systems to ensure continuous and uninterrupted operation of CA systems.

5.1.4 Water Exposures

Commercially reasonable safeguards and recovery measures have been taken to minimize the

risk of damage from water exposure.

5.1.5 Fire Prevention and Protection

Commercially reasonable fire prevention and protection measures are in place to detect and

extinguish fires and prevent damage from exposure to flames or smoke.

5.1.6 Media Storage

Media containing production software, data, audit, and archival backup information SHALL

be securely stored within facilities with appropriate physical and logical access controls,

consistent with Sections 5.1.2 – 5.1.5, that prevent unauthorized access and provide protection

from environmental hazards.

5.1.7 Waste Disposal

Sensitive waste material or PKI information SHALL be shredded and destroyed by an

approved service. Removable media containing sensitive information SHALL be rendered

unreadable before secure disposal. Cryptographic devices, smart cards, and other devices that

may contain private keys or keying material SHALL be physically destroyed or zeroized in

accordance with the manufacturers’ waste disposal guidelines.

5.1.8 Off-Site Backup

Alternate facilities have been established for the storage and retention of PKI systems/data

backups. The facilities are accessible by authorized personnel on a 24x7 basis with physical

security and environmental controls comparable to those of the primary CA facility.

5.2 PROCEDURAL CONTROLS

5.2.1 Trusted Roles

Trusted Roles consist of vetted and approved employees, contractors, or consultants that require

access to or control over the Microsoft PKI Services’ PKI operations. Trusted Role positions are

subject to a clearly defined set of responsibilities that maintain a strict “separation of duties”;

such that, no single person is able to perform both validation duties and certificate issuance

fulfillment without a secondary review by another “trusted” team member. The personnel

considered for Trusted Role positions MUST successfully pass the screening and training

requirements of CPS Section 5.3. Trusted Role positions MAY include, but are not limited to,

Microsoft PKI Services Corporate Certification Practice Statement (CPS) v3.1.7

system administrators, operators, engineers, and certain executives who are designated to oversee

CA operations.

Personnel responsible for CA key management, certificate issuance, and management of CA

system functions are considered to serve in “Trusted Roles”.

5.2.2 Number of Persons Required per Task

The CA Private Key SHALL be backed up, stored, and recovered only by at least two persons in

Trusted Roles using at least dual control (mechanisms) in a physically secured environment.

5.2.3 Identification and Authentication for Each Role

Individuals in a trusted role position SHALL be authorized by management to perform CA or

RA duties and MUST satisfy the Personnel Controls requirements specified in Section 5.3.

5.2.4 Roles Requiring Separation of Duties

To ensure a separation of duties, as described in Section 5.2.1, PKI responsibilities relating to

access, operations, and audit MUST be performed by separate Trusted Roles.

5.3 PERSONNEL CONTROLS

5.3.1 Qualifications, Experience, and Clearance Requirements

Microsoft PKI Services verifies the identity and trustworthiness of all personnel, whether as an

employee, agent, or an independent contractor, prior to the engagement of such person(s).

Any personnel occupying a trusted role, as defined in 5.2.1, MUST possess suitable experience

and be deemed qualified. Personnel in trusted roles SHALL undergo training prior to performing

any duties as part of that role.

5.3.2 Background Check Procedures

Prior to assignment in a Trusted Role position, the prospective Microsoft PKI Services personnel

SHALL undergo and clear the necessary background checks or security screening requirements,

per Microsoft hiring policies and local laws.

5.3.3 Training Requirements

All personnel involved with CA operations SHALL receive and pass the required training to

perform the duties relative to their assigned Trusted Role. Microsoft PKI Services SHALL

retain records of the training completed by such individuals.

5.3.4 Retraining Frequency and Requirements

Trusted Role personnel SHALL receive periodic training to maintain competency with Microsoft

PKI Services’ PKI-related operations and regulatory changes.

Microsoft PKI Services SHALL maintain records of all training taken by Trusted Role

personnel.

Microsoft PKI Services Corporate Certification Practice Statement (CPS) v3.1.7

5.3.5 Job Rotation Frequency and Sequence

No stipulation

5.3.6 Sanctions for Unauthorized Actions

In accordance with Microsoft HR policies, appropriate disciplinary actions SHALL be

taken for unauthorized actions or other violations of PKI policies and procedures.

5.3.7 Independent Contractor Requirements

Microsoft PKI Services may employ contractors, as necessary. Contractors SHALL adhere to

background checks, training, skills assessment, and audit requirements, as appropriate for their

role.

5.3.8 Documentation Supplied to Personnel

Microsoft PKI Services PKI personnel are required to read this CPS and presiding CP. They are

also provided with PKI policies, procedures, and other documentation relevant to their job

functions.

5.4 AUDIT LOGGING PROCEDURES

5.4.1 Types of Events Recorded

Microsoft PKI Services SHALL maintain controls to provide reasonable assurance that

significant CA environmental, key management, and certificate management events are

accurately and appropriately logged.

Microsoft PKI Services and each Delegated Third Party SHALL record details of the actions

taken to process a certificate request and to issue a Certificate, including all information

generated and documentation received in connection with the certificate request; the date and

time; and the personnel involved. Microsoft PKI Services SHALL make these records available

to Qualified Auditors, as proof of compliant CA practices.

Microsoft PKI Services SHALL record at least the following events:

1. CA certificate and key lifecycle management events, including:

a. Key generation, backup, storage, recovery, archival, and destruction;

b. Certificate requests, renewal, and re-key requests, and revocation;

c. Approval and rejection of certificate requests;

d. Cryptographic device lifecycle management events;

e. Generation of Certificate Revocation Lists and OCSP entries;

f. Introduction of new Certificate Profiles and retirement of existing Certificate

Profiles.

2. Microsoft PKI Services’ Subscriber Certificate lifecycle management events,

Microsoft PKI Services Corporate Certification Practice Statement (CPS) v3.1.7

including:

a. Certificate requests, renewal, and re-key requests, and revocation;

b. All verification activities stipulated in the Baseline Requirements and the CA’s

Certification Practice Statement;

c. Approval and rejection of certificate requests;

d. Issuance of Certificates; and

e. Generation of Certificate Revocation Lists and OCSP entries.

3. Security events, including:

a. Successful and unsuccessful PKI system access attempts;

b. PKI and security system actions performed;

c. Security profile changes;

d. Installation, update and removal of software on a Certificate System;

e. System crashes, hardware failures, and other anomalies;

f. Firewall and router activities; and

g. Entries to and exits from the CA facility.

Log entries MUST include the following elements:

1. Date and time of record;

2. Identity of the person making the journal record; and

3. Description of the record.

5.4.2 Frequency of Processing Log

Audit logs are reviewed on an as-needed basis.

5.4.3 Retention Period for Audit Log

Microsoft PKI Services SHALL retain, for at least two (2) years after the following conditions:

1. CA certificate and key lifecycle management event records (as set forth in Section

5.4.1(1)) after the later occurrence of:

a. the destruction of the CA Private Key; or

b. the revocation or expiration of the final CA Certificate in that set of Certificates

that have an X.509v3 basicConstraints extension with the CA field set to true

andwhich share a common Public Key corresponding to the CA Private Key;

2. Subscriber Certificate lifecycle management event records (as set forth in Section 5.4.1

(2)) after the revocation or expiration of the Subscriber Certificate;

3. Any security event records (as set forth in Section 5.4.1 (3)) after the event occurred.

Microsoft PKI Services Corporate Certification Practice Statement (CPS) v3.1.7

5.4.4 Protection of Audit Log

Audit logs are protected from unauthorized viewing, modification, deletion, or other

tampering using a combination of physical and logical security access controls.

5.4.5 Audit Log Backup Procedures

Audit logs are backed up and archived in accordance with business practices.

5.4.6 Audit Collection System (Internal vs. External)

No Stipulation

5.4.7 Notification to Event-Causing Subject

No Stipulation

5.4.8 Vulnerability Assessments

Microsoft PKI Services maintains detection and prevention security controls to safeguard

Certificate Systems against potential threats or vulnerabilities.

5.5 RECORDS ARCHIVAL

5.5.1 Types of Records Archived

Microsoft PKI Services SHALL maintain archived backups of application and system data.

Archived information MAY include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Audit data, as specified in Section 5.4

• Data related to Certificate requests, verifications, issuances, and revocations

• CA policies, procedures, entity agreements, compliance records,

• Cryptographic device and key life cycle information

• Systems management and change control activities

5.5.2 Retention Period for Archive

Microsoft PKI Services SHALL retain all documentation relating to a Certificate’s activities for a

period of at least seven (7) years after the Certificate ceases to be valid.

5.5.3 Protection of Archive

Archives of relevant records SHALL be secured using a combination of physical and logical

access controls at both the primary and backup locations. Access is restricted to authorized

personnel and SHALL be maintained for the period of time specified in Section 5.5.2.

5.5.4 Archive Backup Procedures

Adequate backup procedures SHALL be in place so that in the event of the loss or destruction of

the primary archives, a complete set of backup copies will be readily available within a feasible

period of time.

Microsoft PKI Services Corporate Certification Practice Statement (CPS) v3.1.7

5.5.5 Requirements for Time-Stamping of Records

Certificates, CRLs, and other database entries shall contain time and date information.

5.5.6 Archive Collection System (Internal or External)

Microsoft PKI Services SHALL employ appropriate systems for the collection and maintenance of

archived records.

5.5.7 Procedures to Obtain and Verify Archive Information

Only authorized CA personnel SHALL have access to primary and backup archives. Microsoft

PKI Services may, at its own discretion, release specific archived information, following a formal

request from a Subscriber, a Relying Party, or an authorized agent thereof.

5.6 KEY CHANGEOVER

No Stipulation

5.7 COMPROMISE AND DISASTER RECOVERY

5.7.1 Incident and Compromise Handling Procedures

Microsoft PKI Services SHALL have formal Incident Response, Disaster Recovery, and/or

Business Continuity Plans that contain documented procedures to notify and reasonably protect

Application Software Suppliers, Subscribers, and Relying Parties in the event of a disaster,

security compromise, or business failure. Business Continuity and Security Plans do not have to

be publicly disclosed, but Microsoft PKI Services SHALL make them available to auditors upon

request and annually test, review, and update the procedures.

5.7.2 Computing Resources, Software, and/or Data Are Corrupted

See Section 5.7.4.

5.7.3 Entity Private Key Compromise Procedures

Microsoft PKI Services’ maintains procedures to address incidents in which a CA Private Key

is suspected to be or has been compromised.

5.7.4 Business Continuity Capabilities After a Disaster

In the event of a disaster, Microsoft PKI Services has established and maintains business

continuity capabilities to address the recovery of PKI services in the event of critical

interruptions or outages with CA operations. The recovery procedures align with those identified

in Section 5.7.1.

5.8 CA OR RA TERMINATION

In the event that it is necessary to terminate the operation of a CA, Microsoft PKI Services

management will plan and coordinate the termination process with its Subscribers and Relying

Parties, such that the impact of the termination is minimized. Microsoft PKI Services will make a

commercially reasonable effort to provide prior notice to Subscribers and Relying Parties and

Microsoft PKI Services Corporate Certification Practice Statement (CPS) v3.1.7

preserve relevant records for a period of time deemed fit for functional and legal purposes.

6. TECHNICAL SECURITY CONTROLS

6.1 KEY PAIR GENERATION AND INSTALLATION

6.1.1 Key Pair Generation

6.1.1.1 CA Key Pair Generation

Microsoft PKI Services SHALL have effective practices and controls in place to reasonably assure

that the generation of Root and Subordinate CA key pairs are performed in a physically secured

environment, using cryptographic modules that meet the requirements of Section 6.2, by multiple

Trusted Role personnel.

6.1.1.2 RA Key Pair Generation

No Stipulation

6.1.1.3 Subscriber Key Pair Generation

The Subscriber may generate their own key pairs, in accordance to the requirements set forth in

Section 6.1.5 and 6.1.6. If the Subscriber does not adhere to these requirements or has a known

weak private key, Microsoft PKI Services SHALL reject the certificate request.

It is recommended that the subscriber use a FIPS 140-2 certified cryptographic module for key

generation.

6.1.2 Private Key Delivery to Subscriber

If a Subscriber generates their own key pairs, private key delivery is not performed. In the event

Microsoft PKI Services is authorized to generate a Private Key on behalf of a subscriber, the

Private Key will be encrypted prior to transporting to the Subscriber.

6.1.3 Public Key Delivery to Certificate Issuer

No Stipulation

6.1.4 CA Public Key Delivery to Relying Parties

No Stipulation

6.1.5 Key Sizes

Certificates issued under this CA hierarchy SHALL meet the following minimum requirements:

Root CA, Subordinate CA, and Subscriber Certificates

Digital Signature Algorithm (DSA) key lengths (L and N) are described in the Digital Signature

Standard, FIPS 186-4 (http://csrc.nist.gov/publications/pubsfips.html).

The following tables contains the minimum key sizes for CA and End Entity certificates issued by the

Microsoft PKI Services hierarchy:

Microsoft PKI Services Corporate Certification Practice Statement (CPS) v3.1.7

(1) Root CA Certificates

Key Algorithm

Certificates

Created Before

Jan 1, 2014

Certificates

Created After Jan

1, 2014

Certificates

Expiring Before

Dec 31, 2030

Certificates

Expiring After Dec

31, 2030

RSA

2048 or greater

4096 or greater

2048 or greater

4096 or greater

ECC

NIST P-256, NIST

P-384, NIST P-521

NIST P-384, NIST

P-521

NIST P-256, NIST

P-384, NIST P-521

NIST P-384, NIST

P-521

(2) Subordinate CA Certificates (Primary or Issuing CAs)

Key Algorithm

Certificates

Created Before

Jan 1, 2014

Certificates

Created After Jan

1, 2014

Certificates

Expiring Before

Dec 31, 2030

Certificates

Expiring After Dec

31, 2030

RSA

2048 or greater

4096 or greater

2048 or greater

4096 or greater

ECC

NIST P-256, NIST

P-384, NIST P-521

NIST P-384, NIST

P-521

NIST P-256, NIST

P-384, NIST P-521

NIST P-384, NIST

P-521

*NOTE: The CA can only issue SHA-1 certificates for code-signing and timestamping

functionality to legacy platforms that do not support SHA-2. Certificates with smaller public key

modulus bit sizes must be approved by the PKI Policy Authority. The CA SHALL reject a

certificate request if the requested Public Key does not meet the minimum algorithm key sizes

specified in this section.

(3) End-Entity (Subscriber Certificates)

Key Algorithm

Certificates

Created Before

Jan 25, 2013

Certificates

Created After Jan

25, 2013

Certificates

Expiring Before

Dec 31, 2030

Certificates

Expiring After Dec

31, 2030

RSA

1024 or greater

2048 or greater

4096 or greater

ECC

N/A

NIST P-256, NIST

P-384, NIST P-521

NIST P-256, NIST

P-384, NIST P-521

NIST P-256, NIST

P-384, NIST P-521

*NOTE: Certificates with smaller public key modulus bit sizes must be approved by the

Microsoft PKI Policy Authority. Any use of SHA-1 MUST only be for legacy platforms that do

not support SHA-2. Exceptions require the approval of the Microsoft PKI Policy Authority.

Microsoft PKI Services Corporate Certification Practice Statement (CPS) v3.1.7

6.1.6 Public Key Parameter Generation and Quality Checking

Microsoft PKI Services SHALL generate Private Keys using secure algorithms and parameters

based on current research and industry standards.

Quality checks for both RSA and ECC algorithms are performed on generated CA keys.

6.1.7 Key Usage Purposes (as per X.509 v3 Key Usage Field)

Root Certificate Private Keys MUST NOT be used to sign Certificates, except in the following

cases:

1. Self-signed Certificates to represent the Root CA;

2. Certificates for Subordinate CAs and Cross Certificates;

3. Certificates for infrastructure purposes (administrative role certificates, internal CA

operational device certificates).

6.2 PRIVATE KEY PROTECTION AND CRYPTOGRAPHIC MODULE

ENGINEERING CONTROLS

Microsoft PKI Services SHALL implement physical and logical security controls to prevent the

unauthorized issuance of a certificate. The CA Private Key MUST be protected outside of the

validated system or device specified above, using physical security, encryption, or a combination

of both, and be implemented in a manner that prevents its disclosure. Microsoft PKI Services

SHALL encrypt the Private Key with an algorithm and key-length that are capable of

withstanding cryptanalytic attacks for the residual life of the encrypted key or key part.

6.2.1 Cryptographic Module Standards and Controls

CA key pairs are generated and protected by validated FIPS 140-2 level 3 hardware

cryptographic modules that meet industry standards for random number and prime number

generation.

6.2.2 Private Key (m out of n) Multi-Person Control

The participation of multiple individuals in trusted role positions are required to perform

sensitive CA private key operations (e.g., hardware security module (HSM) activation, signing

operations, CA key backup, CA key recovery, etc.).

6.2.3 Private Key Escrow

No Stipulation

6.2.4 Private Key Backup

Backup copies of CA private keys SHALL be backed up by multiple persons in trusted role

positions and only be stored in encrypted form on cryptographic modules that meet the

requirements specified in Section 6.2.1.

6.2.5 Private Key Archival

No Stipulation

Microsoft PKI Services Corporate Certification Practice Statement (CPS) v3.1.7

6.2.6 Private Key Transfer into or From a Cryptographic Module

No Stipulation

6.2.7 Private Key Storage on Cryptographic Module

See Section 6.2.1

6.2.8 Method of Activating Private Key

Cryptographic modules used for CA private key protection utilize a smart card-based activation

mechanism by multiple Trusted Role personnel using multi-factor authentication.

6.2.9 Method of Deactivating Private Key

No Stipulation

6.2.10 Method of Destroying Private Key

CA private keys SHALL be destroyed when they are no longer needed or when the Certificates,

to which they correspond, expire or are revoked. The destruction process shall be performed by

multiple Trust Role personnel and documented using verifiable methods.

6.2.11 Cryptographic Module Rating

See Section 6.2.1.

6.3 OTHER ASPECTS OF KEY PAIR MANAGEMENT

6.3.1 Public Key Archival

Copies of CA and Subscriber certificates and Public Keys SHALL be archived in accordance

with Section 5.5.

6.3.2 Certificate Operational Periods and Key Pair Usage Periods

For Certificates issued after the publication of this CPS, the following key and certificate

operational periods SHALL be deployed.

Entity Type

Maximum Certificate Validity Period

Root CA

25 Years

Subordinate CAs

20 Years

Online Subordinate CAs

6 Years

Subscribers

15 months

Exceptions to the above noted operational and usage periods SHALL be approved by the

Microsoft PKI Policy Authority.

Microsoft PKI Services Corporate Certification Practice Statement (CPS) v3.1.7

6.4 ACTIVATION DATA

6.4.1 Activation Data Generation and Installation

Microsoft PKI Services SHALL protect activation data from compromise or disclosure.

Appropriate cryptographic and physical access controls SHALL be implemented to prevent

unauthorized use of any CA Private Key activation data.

6.4.2 Activation Data Protection

No Stipulation

6.4.3 Other Aspects of Activation Data

No Stipulation

6.5 COMPUTER SECURITY CONTROLS

6.5.1 Specific Computer Security Technical Requirements

Microsoft PKI Services systems SHALL be secured from unauthorized access using multi-

factor authentication security controls.

6.5.2 Computer Security Rating

No Stipulation

6.6 LIFE CYCLE TECHNICAL CONTROLS

6.6.1 System Development Controls

All in-house developed CA software is built in accordance with documented Microsoft systems

development processes. Approvals are required at all stages of development by the management.

All code is verified, using digital signatures and hashing, before being deployed into the

production CA environment.

6.6.2 Security Management Controls

Microsoft PKI Services has tools and processes in place to control and monitor the

configurations of the CA systems, physical and logical access, and performs risk assessments to

identify and remediate threats and vulnerabilities.

6.6.3 Life Cycle Security Controls

No Stipulation

6.7 NETWORK SECURITY CONTROLS

Microsoft PKI Services maintains controls to provide reasonable assurance that the following

CA system access is limited to authorized individuals:

Microsoft PKI Services Corporate Certification Practice Statement (CPS) v3.1.7

• network infrastructure access is limited to authorized individuals with predetermined task

privileges;

• access to network segments hosting CA systems is limited to authorized individuals,

applications and services; and

• CA application use is limited to authorized individuals

6.8 TIME-STAMPING

Certificates, CRLs, and other revocation database entries SHALL contain date and time

information.

7. CERTIFICATE, CRL, AND OCSP PROFILES

7.1 CERTIFICATE PROFILE

Microsoft PKI Services’ certificates SHALL be X.509 Version 3 format and conform to

RFC5280: Internet X.509 Public Key Infrastructure Certificate and CRL profile.

7.1.1 Version Number(s)

Microsoft PKI Services SHALL issue certificates that are compliant with X.509 Version 3.

7.1.2 Certificate Extensions

The extensions defined for Microsoft PKI Services’ X.509 v3 certificates provide methods for

associating additional attributes with users or public keys and for managing the certification

hierarchy. Each extension in a certificate is designated as either critical or non-critical.

Certificate extensions, their criticality, and cryptographic algorithm object identifiers, are

provisioned according to the IETF RFC 5280 standards.

7.1.2.1 Root CA Certificate

Root CAs SHALL ensure that the content of the Certificate Issuer Distinguished Name field

matches the Subject DN of the Issuing CA to support Name chaining, as specified in RFC 5280.

Field

Description

Version

Serial Number

Positive integer uniquely assigned by CA

Signature Algorithm

Identifier

See Section 7.1.3

Issuer Distinguished Name

CN = < CA Common Name >

OU = < Organizational Unit > (optional)

O = < Organization >

Microsoft PKI Services Corporate Certification Practice Statement (CPS) v3.1.7

Field

Description

L = < Locality >

S = < State >

C = < ISO 3166-1 alpha-2 country code >

Valid From

Date and time of certificate issuance. Time is encoded in

accordance with RFC 5280.

Valid To

Date and time of certificate expiration. Time is encoded in

accordance with RFC 5280.

See Section 6.3.2

Subject Distinguished Name

Same as Issuer Distinguished Name for self-signed Root CA

certificates

Subject Public Key

Information

See Section 6.1.5

Microsoft PKI Services Corporate Certification Practice Statement (CPS) v3.1.7

7.1.2.2. Subordinate CA Certificate

Subordinate CA Certificates MAY include extensions and values that are pertinent for their

intended use, in accordance with this CPS and RFC 5280.

Field

Description

Version

Serial Number

Positive integer uniquely assigned by CA to include at least 8

random bytes

Signature Algorithm

Identifier

See Section 7.1.3

Issuer Distinguished

Name

Subject Distinguished Name of Parent CA

Valid From

Date and time of certificate issuance. Time is encoded in

accordance with RFC 5280.

Valid To

Date and time of certificate expiration. Time is encoded in

accordance with RFC 5280.

See Section 6.3.2

Subject Distinguished Name

CN = < CA Common Name >

OU = < Organizational Unit > (optional)

O = < Organization >

L = < Locality >

S = < State >

C = < ISO 3166-1 alpha-2 code >

Subject Public Key

Information

See Section 6.1.5

7.1.2.3 Subscriber Certificate

Subscriber Certificates MAY include extensions and values that are pertinent for their intended

use, in accordance with this CPS and RFC 5280.

Microsoft PKI Services Corporate Certification Practice Statement (CPS) v3.1.7

Field

Description

Version

Serial Number

Positive integer uniquely assigned by CA to include at least 8

random bytes

Signature Algorithm

Identifier

See Section 7.1.3

Issuer

Subject Distinguished Name of Parent CA

Valid From

Date and time of certificate issuance. Time is synchronized

with a reliable time source. . Time is encoded in accordance

with RFC 5280.

Valid To

Date and time of certificate expiration. Time is synchronized

with a reliable time source. . Time is encoded in accordance

with RFC 5280.

See Section 6.3.2

Subject Distinguished Name:

All fields are optional unless specified.

E = < Email Address >

CN = < Common Name > (required)

OU = < Organizational Unit >

i.e., Microsoft Product Group or Partner Name (for certificates

issued to external 3rd Party customers)

O = < Organization > (i.e., Microsoft or Partner Name)

L = < Locality >

S = < State >

DC = < Domain Component >

C = < ISO 3166-1 alpha-2 code >

Subject Alternative Name:

If the Subject Alternative Name is present, one or more values

such as the below must be present. Alternate values not listed

here are acceptable

UPN = < User Principal Name >

DNS = < Domain Name >

email = < Email Address >

Microsoft PKI Services Corporate Certification Practice Statement (CPS) v3.1.7

Field

Description

URL = < Uniform Resource Locator >

IP = < IP Address >

GUID = < Globally Unique Identifier, Hash of ID >

Subject Public Key

Information

See Section 6.1.5

7.1.2.4 All Certificates

All other provisions MUST be set in accordance with RFC 5280.

7.1.2.5 Application of RFC 5280

The applicability of RFC 5280 SHALL be governed by the respective requirements and

guidelines of the Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF).

7.1.3 Algorithm Object Identifiers

No Stipulation

7.1.4 Name Forms

Microsoft PKI Services SHALL issue Certificates with Name Forms in accordance with RFC

5280 and Section 3.1.1 of this CPS.

7.1.4.1. Issuer Information

No Stipulation

7.1.4.2. Subject Information – Subscriber Certificates

No Stipulation

7.1.4.2.1. Subject Alternative Name Extension

No Stipulation

7.1.4.2.2. Subject Distinguished Name Fields

No Stipulation

7.1.4.3. Subject Information – Root Certificates and Subordinate CA Certificates

By issuing a Subordinate CA Certificate, Microsoft PKI Services represents that it followed the

procedure set forth in this CPS to verify that, as of the Certificate’s issuance date, all of the

Subject Information was accurate.

7.1.4.3.1. Subject Distinguished Name Fields

No Stipulation

Microsoft PKI Services Corporate Certification Practice Statement (CPS) v3.1.7

7.1.5 Name Constraints

Microsoft PKI Services reserve the right to issue Certificates with Name Constraints and mark

them as critical, where necessary. Unless otherwise documented in this CPS the use of Name

Constraints SHALL conform with the X.509 V3 standard (RFC 5280).

7.1.6 Certificate Policy Object Identifier

Microsoft PKI Services MAY issue Certificates with policy identifiers, set forth in Section 1.2

herein, and comply with the provisions of this CPS.

7.1.6.1 Reserved Certificate Policy Object Identifiers

No Stipulation

7.1.6.2 Root CA Certificates

No Stipulation

7.1.6.3 Subordinate CA Certificates

No Stipulation

7.1.6.4 Subscriber Certificates

No Stipulation

7.1.7 Usage of Policy Constraints Extension

No Stipulation

7.1.8 Policy Qualifiers Syntax and Semantics

No Stipulation

7.1.9 Processing Semantics for the Critical Certificate Policies Extension

No Stipulation

7.2 CRL PROFILE

CRL Profiles comply with X.509 V3 standards.

7.2.1 Version Number(s)

No Stipulation

7.2.2 CRL and CRL Entry Extensions

No Stipulation

7.3 OCSP PROFILE

No Stipulation

Microsoft PKI Services Corporate Certification Practice Statement (CPS) v3.1.7

7.3.1 Version Number(s)

No Stipulation

7.3.2 OCSP Extensions

No Stipulation

8. COMPLIANCE AUDIT AND OTHER ASSESSMENTS

Microsoft PKI Services SHALL at all times:

1. Be licensed as a CA in each jurisdiction of operation, where required, for the issuance of

Certificates;

2. Operate its PKI and issue Certificates in accordance with all applicable laws and

guidelines in every jurisdiction of operation;

3. Comply with the audit requirements set forth in this section

4. Comply with these requirements

8.1 FREQUENCY AND CIRCUMSTANCES OF ASSESSMENT

Microsoft PKI Services SHALL have an independent auditor annually assess the CA’s

compliance to the stated requirements and practices of this CPS and presiding CP. The results of

the audit SHALL be provided in an Audit Report indicating compliance status with the

applicable standards under the audit scheme herein.

Any changes to Microsoft PKI Services business practices are subject to and SHALL require

Self Audits, as described in Section 8.7. Any audit deficiencies SHALL be addressed and

remedied, in accordance with Section 8.5. The annual audit SHALL include items mentioned in

Section 8.4.

8.2 IDENTITY/QUALIFICATIONS OF ASSESSOR

Microsoft PKI Services SHALL have an annual audit conducted by an independent licensed

Auditor that demonstrates proficiency in the criteria specified in Section 8.4 and maintains a

Professional Liability/Errors, & Omissions insurance policy with a minimum coverage of one

million US dollars.

8.3 ASSESSOR'S RELATIONSHIP TO ASSESSED ENTITY

The entity that performs the annual audit SHALL be completely independent of Microsoft PKI

Services.

8.4 TOPICS COVERED BY ASSESSMENT

Annual audits SHALL be performed by an independent certified Auditor that assesses

Microsoft PKI Services PKI operations in accordance with the stipulations documented in their

CP, CPS, and applicable Auditors’ Principles and Criteria for Certification Authorities.

8.5 ACTIONS TAKEN AS A RESULT OF DEFICIENCY

Significant deficiencies identified during the compliance audit will result in a determination of

Microsoft PKI Services Corporate Certification Practice Statement (CPS) v3.1.7

actions to be taken. The Microsoft PKI Services group makes this determination with input from

the auditor. Microsoft PKI Services is responsible for ensuring that corrective action plans are

promptly developed and corrective action is taken within a period of time commensurate with the

significance of such matters identified.

8.6 COMMUNICATION OF RESULTS

Audit results are provided to the PKI Policy Authority, who will distribute to the

necessary parties, as required.

8.7 SELF-AUDITS

Microsoft PKI Services SHALL perform periodic self-audits of its PKI business practices, in

accordance with this CPS and presiding CP.

9. OTHER BUSINESS AND LEGAL MATTERS

9.1 FEES

9.1.1 Certificate Issuance or Renewal Fees

Microsoft reserves the right to charge Subscribers fees for Certificate issuance and renewals.

9.1.2 Certificate Access Fees

Microsoft reserves the right to charge a fee for making a Certificate available in a repository or

otherwise.

9.1.3 Revocation or Status Information Access Fees

Microsoft does not charge a fee to Relying Parties for access to revocation or status information

in accordance with Section 2. Microsoft reserves the right to charge a fee for providing

customized CRLs or other value-added revocation and status information services.

9.1.4 Fees for Other Services

Microsoft does not charge a fee for accessing this CPS. However, any use of the CPS for

purposes other than viewing the document, including reproduction, redistribution, modification,

or creation of derivative works, may be subject to a license agreement with the entity holding the

9.1.5 Refund Policy

Not Applicable

9.2 FINANCIAL RESPONSIBILITY

9.2.1 Insurance Coverage

Microsoft maintains insurance or self-insures in accordance with Section 9.2.1 of the CP.

Microsoft PKI Services Corporate Certification Practice Statement (CPS) v3.1.7

9.2.2 Other Assets

Customers shall have access to sufficient financial resources to support operations and perform

duties in accordance with the Microsoft PKI Services CP and shall be able to bear the risk of

liability to Subscribers and Relying Parties.

9.2.3 Insurance or Warranty Coverage for End-Entities

No Stipulation

9.3 CONFIDENTIALITY OF BUSINESS INFORMATION

9.3.1 Scope of Confidential Information

Sensitive information shall remain confidential to Microsoft. The following information is

considered confidential to Microsoft and may not be disclosed:

• Microsoft PKI Services policies, procedures and technical documentation supporting

this CPS;

• Subscriber registration records, including: Certificate applications, whether approved

or rejected, proof of identification documentation and details;

• Certificate information collected as part of the registration records, beyond that which

is required to be included in Subscriber Certificates;

• Audit trail records;

• Any Private Key within the Microsoft PKI Services CA hierarchy; and

• Compliance audit results except for WebTrust for CAs audit reports which may be

published at the discretion of Microsoft PKI Policy Authority.

9.3.2 Information Not Within the Scope of Confidential Information

This CPS, Certificates and CRLs issued by Microsoft PKI Services and any information that the

CA has explicitly authorized to disclose are not considered confidential.

Microsoft may disclose Subscriber information on an aggregate basis, and the Subscriber hereby

grants to Microsoft a license to do so, including the right to modify the aggregated Subscriber

information and to permit third parties to perform such functions on its behalf.

This Section 9.3.2 is subject to applicable privacy laws.

9.3.3 Responsibility to Protect Confidential Information

Microsoft PKI participants receiving private information shall secure it from compromise and

disclosure to third parties.

9.4 PRIVACY OF PERSONAL INFORMATION

9.4.1 Privacy Plan

Microsoft follows the governing principles established by the Microsoft privacy statement

located at https://privacy.microsoft.com/en-us/privacystatement

Microsoft PKI Services Corporate Certification Practice Statement (CPS) v3.1.7

when handling personal information.

9.4.2 Information Treated as Private

Information about Subscribers that is not publicly available through the content of the issued

Certificate and CRLs is treated as private.

9.4.3 Information Not Deemed Private

See Section 9.3.2.

9.4.4 Responsibility to Protect Private Information

See Section 9.3.3.

9.4.5 Notice and Consent to Use Private Information

Unless where otherwise stated in this CPS, the applicable Privacy Policy, or by agreement,

private information will not be used without the consent of the party to whom that information

applies. This Section 9.4.5 is subject to applicable privacy laws.

9.4.6 Disclosure Pursuant to Judicial or Administrative Process

Microsoft shall be entitled to disclose Confidential/Private Information if, in good faith,

Microsoft believes that:

• Disclosure is necessary in response to subpoenas and search warrants

• Disclosure is necessary in response to judicial, administrative, or other legal process

during the discovery process in a civil or administrative action, such as subpoenas,

interrogatories, requests for admission, and requests for production of documents.

9.4.7 Other Information Disclosure Circumstances

No Stipulation

9.5 INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY RIGHTS

The following are the property of Microsoft:

• This CPS;

• Policies and procedures supporting the operation of Microsoft PKI Services;

• Certificates and CRLs issued by Microsoft PKI Services managed CAs;

• Distinguished Names (DNs) used to represent entities within the Microsoft PKI

Services CA hierarchy; and

• CA infrastructure and Subscriber key pairs.

Microsoft PKI participants acknowledge that Microsoft retains all Intellectual Property Rights in

and to this CPS.

9.6 REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES

Microsoft warrants and promises to provide certification authority services substantially in

compliance with this CPS and the relevant Microsoft Certificate Policies. Microsoft makes no

Microsoft PKI Services Corporate Certification Practice Statement (CPS) v3.1.7

other warranties or promises and has no further obligations to Subscribers or Relying Parties,

except as set forth under this CPS.

9.6.1 CA Representations and Warranties

See Section 9.6

9.6.2 RA Representations and Warranties

See Section 9.6

9.6.3 Subscriber Representations and Warranties

See Section 9.6

9.6.4 Relying Party Representations and Warranties

See Section 9.6

9.6.5 Representations and Warranties of Other Participants

See Section 9.6

9.7 DISCLAIMERS OF WARRANTIES

Except for express warranties stated in this CPS, Microsoft disclaims all other warranties,

promises and other obligations. In addition, Microsoft is not liable for any loss:

• To CA or RA services due to war, natural disasters or other uncontrollable forces;

• Incurred between the time a Certificate is revoked and the next scheduled issuance of a

CRL;

• Due to unauthorized use of Certificates issued by Microsoft PKI Services, or use of

Certificates beyond the prescribed use defined by this CPS;

• Arising from the negligent or fraudulent use of Certificates or CRLs issued by Microsoft

PKI Services; and

• Due to disclosure of personal information contained within Certificates, CRLs or OCSP

responses.

9.8 LIMITATIONS OF LIABILITY

WE AND OUR AFFILIATES OR LICENSORS WILL NOT BE LIABLE TO YOU FOR ANY

DIRECT, INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL, SPECIAL, CONSEQUENTIAL OR EXEMPLARY

DAMAGES (INCLUDING DAMAGES FOR LOSS OF PROFITS, GOODWILL, USE, OR

DATA), EVEN IF A PARTY HAS BEEN ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH

DAMAGES. FURTHER, NEITHER WE NOR ANY OF OUR AFFILIATES OR LICENSORS

WILL BE RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY COMPENSATION, REIMBURSEMENT, OR

DAMAGES ARISING IN CONNECTION WITH: (A) YOUR INABILITY TO USE A

CERTIFICATE, INCLUDING AS A RESULT OF (I) ANY TERMINATION OR

SUSPENSION OF THIS AGREEMENT OR THE CPS OR REVOCATION OF A

CERTIFICATE, (II) OUR DISCONTINUATION OF ANY OR ALL SERVICE OFFERINGS

IN CONNECTION WITH THIS AGREEMENT, OR, (III) ANY DOWNTIME OF ALL OR A

Microsoft PKI Services Corporate Certification Practice Statement (CPS) v3.1.7

PORTION OF CERTIFICATE SERVICES FOR ANY REASON, INCLUDING AS A RESULT

OF POWER OUTAGES, SYSTEM FAILURES OR OTHER INTERRUPTIONS; (B) THE

COST OF PROCUREMENT OF SUBSTITUTE GOODS OR SERVICES; (C) ANY

INVESTMENTS, EXPENDITURES, OR COMMITMENTS BY YOU IN CONNECTION

WITH THIS AGREEMENT OR YOUR USE OF OR ACCESS TO MICROSOFT’S

CERTIFICATE SERVICES; OR (D) ANY UNAUTHORIZED ACCESS TO, ALTERATION

OF, OR THE DELETION, DESTRUCTION, DAMAGE, LOSS OR FAILURE TO STORE

ANY OF YOUR CONTENT OR OTHER DATA. IN ANY CASE, MICROSOFT AND ITS

AFFILIATES’ AND LICENSORS’ AGGREGATE LIABILITY IN CONNECTION WITH

THIS AGREEMENT AND ALL CERTIFICATES ISSUED HEREUNDER, IS THE LESSER

OF THE AMOUNT PAID BY YOU FOR THE CERTIFICATE(S) AT ISSUE OR THE

AMOUNTS PAID FOR THE CERTIFICATE SERVICES FOR THE CERTIFICATE(S) AT

ISSUE IN THE LAST TWELVE (12) MONTHS BEFORE THE CLAIM AROSE; PROVIDED,

HOWEVER, THAT FOR ANY EV CERTIFICATE ISSUED UNDER THIS AGREEMENT

EXEPT FOR AS EXPRESSLY EXCLUDED PER SECTION 8(c), OUR AND OUR

AFFILIATES’ AND LICENSORS’ AGGREGATE LIABILITY IS LIMITED TO $2000 US

DOLLARS PER SUBSCRIBER OR RELYING PARTY PER EV CERTIFICATE.

9.9 INDEMNITIES

9.9.1 Indemnification by CAs

See Section 9.9

9.9.2 Indemnification by Subscribers

To the extent permitted by law, Subscriber indemnifies Microsoft, Microsoft’s partners, and any

cross-signed entities, and their respective employees, directors, agents, and representatives from,

and defend the indemnified parties against, any and all third party claims, including Relying

Parties, to the extent arising from or related to: (a) Subscriber’s failure to perform any of your

warranties, representations, and obligations under this Agreement; (b) any omissions, falsehoods

or misrepresentations of fact, regardless of whether the misrepresentation or omission was

intentional or unintentional, Subscriber makes on the Certificate or in connection with this

Agreement; (c) any infringement of an intellectual property right of any person or entity in

information or content provided by Subscriber; (d) Subscriber’s misuse of a Certificate or private

key; or (e) failure to protect the private key, credentials, or use a trustworthy system, or to take

the precautions necessary to prevent the compromise, loss, disclosure, modification, or

unauthorized use of the private key under the terms of this Agreement. The CA and its RAs are

not the agents, fiduciaries, trustees, or other representatives of Subscribers or Relying Parties.

9.9.3 Indemnification by Relying Parties

To the extent permitted by law, Relying Party indemnifies Microsoft, Microsoft’s partners, and

any cross-signed entities, and their respective employees, directors, agents, and representatives

from, and any third-party Certificate Authority or RA providing services to Microsoft or any of

its affiliates in relation to the Certificate and defend the indemnified parties against, any loss,

Microsoft PKI Services Corporate Certification Practice Statement (CPS) v3.1.7

damage, or expense, including reasonable attorney’s fees, related to the Relying Party’s (i)

breach of any service terms applicable to the services provided by Microsoft or its affiliates and

used by the Relying Party, the Relying Party Agreement, this CPS, or applicable law; (ii)

unreasonable reliance on a certificate or any constituent elements of it; or (iii) failure to check

the certificate’s status prior to use.

9.10 TERM AND TERMINATION

9.10.1 Term

This CPS becomes effective upon publication in the Repository.

This CPS, as amended from time to time, shall remain in force until it is replaced by a new

version. Amendments to this CPS become effective upon publication in the Repository.

9.10.2 Termination

This CPS and any amendments remain in effect until replaced by a newer version.

9.10.3 Effect of Termination and Survival

Upon termination of this CPS, participants are nevertheless bound by its terms for all Certiﬁcates

issued for the remainder of the validity periods of such Certiﬁcates.

9.11 INDIVIDUAL NOTICES AND COMMUNICATIONS WITH PARTICIPANTS

Any notice, demand, or request pertaining to this CPS shall be communicated either using

digitally signed messages consistent with this CPS, or in writing. Microsoft accepts notices

related to this CPS at the locations specified in Section 2.2. Notices are deemed effective after

the sender receives a valid and digitally signed acknowledgment of receipt from Microsoft. If an

acknowledgement of receipt is not received within five days, the sender must resend the notice in

paper form to the street address specified in Section 2.2 using either a courier service that

confirms delivery or via certified or registered mail with postage prepaid and return receipt

requested. Microsoft may allow other forms of notice in its Subscriber Agreements.

9.12 AMENDMENTS

9.12.1 Procedure for Amendment

Amendments to this CPS may be made by Microsoft PKI Services Service Manager and shall be

approved by the Microsoft PKI Policy Authority, as per Section 1.5.4.

9.12.2 Notification Mechanism and Period

No Stipulation

9.12.3 Circumstances under which OID must be changed

No Stipulation

Microsoft PKI Services Corporate Certification Practice Statement (CPS) v3.1.7

9.13 DISPUTE RESOLUTION PROVISIONS

In the event of any dispute involving the services or provisions covered by this CPS, the

aggrieved party shall notify a member of Microsoft PKI Policy Authority regarding the dispute.

Microsoft PKI Policy Authority will involve the appropriate Microsoft personnel to resolve the

dispute.

9.14 GOVERNING LAW

The laws of the state of Washington State govern the interpretation, construction, and

enforcement of this CPS, including tort claims, without regard to any conflicts of law principles.

The state or federal courts located in King County, Washington have nonexclusive venue and

jurisdiction over any proceedings related to the CPS. Microsoft may seek injunctive or other

relief in any state, federal, or national court of competent jurisdiction for any actual or alleged

infringement of our, our affiliates, or any third party’s intellectual property or other proprietary

rights. The United Nations Convention for the International Sale of Goods does not apply to this

CPS.

9.15 COMPLIANCE WITH APPLICABLE LAW

This CPS is subject to all applicable laws and regulations, including United States restrictions on

the export of software and cryptography products.

9.16 MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS

9.16.1 Entire Agreement

Microsoft contractually obligates each RA to comply with this CPS and applicable industry

guidelines. Microsoft also requires each party using its products and services to enter into an

agreement that delineates the terms associated with the product or service. If an agreement has

provisions that differ from this CPS, then the agreement with that party controls, but solely with

respect to that party. Third parties may not rely on or bring action to enforce such agreement.

9.16.2 Assignment

Any entities operating under this CPS may not assign their rights or obligations without the prior

written consent of Microsoft. Unless specified otherwise in a contract with a party, Microsoft

does not provide notice of assignment. This CPS shall be binding on all successors of the parties.

9.16.3 Severability

If any provision of this CPS is held invalid or unenforceable by a competent court or tribunal, the

remainder of the CPS will remain valid and enforceable. It is expressly agreed that every

provision of this CPS that provides for a limitation of liability or exclusion of damages,

disclaimer or limitation of any warranties, promises or other obligations, is intended to be

severable and independent of any other provision and is to be enforced as such.

Microsoft PKI Services Corporate Certification Practice Statement (CPS) v3.1.7

9.16.4 Enforcement (attorneys' fees and waiver of rights)

Microsoft may seek indemnification and attorneys’ fees from a party for damages, losses, and

expenses related to that party’s conduct. Microsoft’s failure to enforce a provision of this CPS

does not waive Microsoft’s right to enforce the same provision later or right to enforce any other

provision of this CPS. To be effective, waivers must be in writing and signed by Microsoft.

9.16.5 Force Majeure

Microsoft is not liable for any delay or failure to perform an obligation under this CPS to the

extent that the delay or failure is caused by an occurrence beyond Microsoft’s reasonable control.

The operation of the Internet is beyond Microsoft’s reasonable control.

9.17 OTHER PROVISIONS

This CPS shall be interpreted consistently with what is commercially reasonable in good faith

under the circumstances and considering its international scope and uniform application.

Microsoft PKI Services Corporate Certification Practice Statement (CPS) v3.1.7

Appendix A – Change Control Log

Revision

Date

New

Revision

Revision Explanation

5/20/23

3.1.7

Update Change Log location and layout, Update to Privacy Statement

Link in 9.4.1, Update to various Section Titles to align with RFC3647

1/7/22

3.1.6

Minor clarifying updates

10/19/21

3.1.5

Minor clarifying updates

7/28/20

3.1.4

Minor clarifying updates, updated email contact

8/5/2019

3.1.3

Minor clarifying updates

7/31/2018

3.1.2

Minor clarifying updates

7/10/2018

3.1.1

Minor clarifying updates

6/12/2018

3.1

Minor clarifying updates

2/28/2018

3.0

Major update/rewrite corresponding to changes made to CP.

4/30/2014

2.1

Updated to incorporate findings from FY13 WebTrust Audit and internal

review.

4/2/2013

2.0

Updated to support the practice of online CA operations

1/2/2013

1.1

Updated to support PKI Steering Committee, Microsoft Legal and Audit

partner recommendations

1/27/2010

1.0

Established