step 1: ensure permissions on sensitive files the /etc/ directory is where system configuration files exist. start by navigating to this directory with cd /etc/. inspect the file permissions of each of the following files. you should have already done this during an in-class activity, but double check them now. if any file's permissions do not match the descriptions listed here, update the file's permissions. permissions on /etc/shadow should allow only root read and write access. permissions on /etc/gshadow should allow only root read and write access. permissions on /etc/group should allow root read and write access, and allow everyone else read access only. permissions on /etc/passwd should allow root read and write access, and allow everyone else read access only.