App Service web apps should use the latest 'Python version' when Python is part of the app
Checks that Azure App Service web apps using Python run the latest `Python version`. Newer Python versions are released to fix security flaws or add functionality, so running the latest release keeps the app current with those fixes and features.
Outdated Python runtimes weaken security and reliability.
What this control checks
Checks the Python version setting on App Service web apps that use Python
Common pitfalls
Policy only applies to Linux apps
Currently, this policy only applies to Linux web apps.
Policy requires you to specify a Python version
This policy requires you to specify a Python version that meets your requirements.
Audit evidence
Evidence that deployed resources meet this control: Azure Policy compliance results for the built-in policy definition "App Service apps that use Python should use a specified 'Python version'" (7008174a-fd10-4ef0-817e-fc820a951d73); Prowler check app_ensure_python_version_is_latest (prowler azure --checks app_ensure_python_version_is_latest); PowerPipe control azure_compliance.control.appservice_web_app_latest_python_version.
Framework-specific interpretation
NIS2 Directive (EU 2022/2555): Mapped to 5.1.2.a (the cybersecurity practices of the suppliers and service providers, including their secure development procedures;), 6.2.1 (Before developing a network and information system, including software, the relevant entities shall lay down rules for...), 6.2.2.b (apply principles for engineering secure systems and secure coding principles to any information system development...) and 1 more clause.
Framework mappings
The clauses this control is mapped to in each framework.
- 5 Supply chain security
- 6 Security in network and information systems acquisition, development and maintenance
RBI Cyber Security Framework for UCBs
- Annex I (6)
- DEV-02.01B In the case of outsourced development of the cloud service (or individual system components), specifications regarding the following aspects are contractually agreed between the cloud service provider and the outsourced development contractor: - Security in software development...
- OPS-05.01AS If protection programmes are set up with signature and behaviour-based malware detection and removal, these protection programmes are regularly updated with the latest malware definitions when such updates are available, at the highest frequency that the vendor(s) contractually offer(s).
- OPS-05.02B If protection programmes are set up with signature or behaviour-based malware detection and removal, these protection programmes are regularly updated with the latest malware definitions when such updates are available, at least on a daily basis.
- OPS-23.01B The cloud service provider regularly measures, analyses and assesses the procedures with which vulnerabilities and incidents are handled to verify their continued suitability, appropriateness and effectiveness.
- OPS-27.01B The cloud service provider documents, communicates, and maintains processes and procedures to manage updates to system components used to provide the cloud service that incorporate third party or open-source libraries. This includes: - Regularly identifying available updates and known...
1 more clause
- OPS-33.02B Patch management procedures are harmonised with the cloud service provider's overall software change management process.
- 9.7 Ensure that 'Python version' is the Latest Stable Version, if Used to Run the Web App
- 9.6 Ensure that 'Python version' is the Latest Stable Version, if Used to Run the Web App
- 9.8 Ensure that 'Python version' is currently supported (if in use)
Related controls
Tool mappings
Use these identifiers to cross-reference this control across tools, reports, and evidence.
- Compliance.tf Control:
appservice_web_app_latest_python_version - Powerpipe Control:
azure_compliance.control.appservice_web_app_latest_python_version - Prowler Check:
app_ensure_python_version_is_latest - Azure Policy Definition:
7008174a-fd10-4ef0-817e-fc820a951d73
Last reviewed: 2026-10-11