Database Logging Rule
This rule requires enabling database logging for better security measures.
| Rule | Database logging should be enabled |
| Framework | NIST 800-171 Revision 2 |
| Severity | ✔ Low |
Rule: Database Logging for NIST 800-171 Revision 2
Description:
The rule requires enabling database logging for compliance with NIST 800-171 Revision 2. Database logging provides a record of activities and changes made within the database, ensuring accountability and facilitating forensic analysis in case of security incidents or audits.
Troubleshooting Steps:
If the database logging is not enabled, you may encounter the following issues:
- 1.Difficulty in tracking and investigating unauthorized access or changes to the database.
- 2.Non-compliance with the NIST 800-171 Revision 2 security guidelines.
- 3.Inability to generate accurate audit logs for regulatory compliance purposes.
Necessary Codes:
There are no specific codes for this rule. However, you may need to utilize specific SQL commands or database management tools to enable and configure database logging.
Step-by-step Guide for Remediation:
1. Identify Your Database Management System (DBMS):
Determine the type and version of the DBMS being used in your environment (e.g., MySQL, Oracle, Microsoft SQL Server).
2. Understand Logging Capabilities:
Consult the documentation and resources provided by your DBMS vendor to understand the logging capabilities available for your specific DBMS version.
3. Enable Database Logging:
Follow the steps below to enable database logging:
a. Configure Logging Parameters:
Within your DBMS, locate the configuration file or settings that control the logging parameters. These settings may vary depending on the DBMS being used. Some common logging parameters include:
- Log level: Define the level of detail recorded in the logs (e.g., error messages, access attempts, modifications).
- Log file location: Specify the file path where the database logs will be stored.
- Log rotation: Define how frequently the log files are rotated to prevent them from becoming too large.
b. Enable Audit Logging:
Enable the appropriate auditing or logging feature within your DBMS. This may involve executing SQL queries or utilizing graphical interfaces provided by the DBMS. Ensure to enable auditing for all relevant database activities, such as logins, schema modifications, and data access.
4. Test Logging Functionality:
After enabling database logging, perform testing to ensure that the logs are being generated correctly. Test different scenarios, such as accessing the database, making changes, and accessing restricted data, to verify that the logs capture the expected activities.
5. Monitor and Review Logs:
Regularly monitor and review the generated logs to identify any suspicious or unauthorized activities. Consider implementing automated log analysis tools or employing a Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) system to efficiently manage and analyze the logs.
6. Periodically Backup and Archive Logs:
To ensure the availability and integrity of log files, periodically backup and archive them in a secure location. Implement a suitable retention policy for log files according to regulatory requirements and best practices.
By following these steps, you can enable database logging and meet the requirements of NIST 800-171 Revision 2.