Anonymous FTP The anonymous FTP root directory and its subdirectories should not be owned by the ftp account or be in the same group as the ftp account. This is a common configuration problem. There is a risk to operating an anonymous FTP service that permits users to store files. CERT(R) strongly recommends that sites do not automatically create a "drop off" directory unless thought has been given to the possible risks of having such a service. If your site is planning to offer a "drop off" service, it may be desirable to limit the amount of data transferred. If possible, dedicate a disk drive and mount it as ~ftp/incoming. The system administrator should monitor this directory on a continuing basis to ensure that it is not being misused. "CERT" is registered with the U.S. Patent and Trademark office as a service mark of Carnegie Mellon University.