Ensure DynamoDB Tables are Included in Backup Plan Rule
This rule mandates that all DynamoDB tables must be included in a backup plan to ensure data recovery and protection.
| Rule | DynamoDB tables should be in a backup plan |
| Framework | NIST Cybersecurity Framework (CSF) v1.1 |
| Severity | ✔ Medium |
Rule Description:
According to the NIST Cybersecurity Framework (CSF) v1, it is recommended to include DynamoDB tables in the backup plan of an organization's data management strategy. DynamoDB is a fully managed NoSQL database service provided by Amazon Web Services (AWS). Ensuring that DynamoDB tables are backed up helps to mitigate the risk of data loss caused by various potential threats, such as accidental deletion, system failures, or malicious activities.
Troubleshooting Steps:
If you encounter any issues or errors while implementing backup for DynamoDB tables, follow these troubleshooting steps:
- 1.
Verify AWS credentials: Ensure that the AWS credentials used for DynamoDB backup have sufficient permissions to perform backup and restore operations.
- 2.
Check backup configurations: Review the backup configurations to ensure that they are correctly set up for DynamoDB tables. Check if the backup frequency, retention period, and storage destination are configured appropriately.
- 3.
Ensure consistent internet connectivity: Make sure that the system running the backup process has a stable and uninterrupted internet connection. Backup operations require proper connectivity to AWS services.
- 4.
Check DynamoDB table permissions: Confirm that the IAM roles or policies associated with DynamoDB tables allow backup and restore operations. Make sure the required permissions are granted to the relevant entities.
- 5.
Monitor AWS service status: Monitor the AWS service status page to check if there are any ongoing issues or outages related to DynamoDB. It's possible that the backup process is affected by a service disruption.
- 6.
Review CloudWatch logs: Examine the CloudWatch logs for any error messages related to DynamoDB backup. These logs can provide insights into issues encountered during the backup process.
Necessary Codes:
There are no specific codes required for this rule/policy. However, depending on your backup strategy and implementation approach, you may use the AWS Command Line Interface (CLI) or AWS SDKs to interact with DynamoDB and perform backup and restore operations.
Step-by-Step Guide for Remediation:
Follow these steps to include DynamoDB tables in your backup plan as per the NIST CSF v1 recommendations:
- 1.
Identify critical DynamoDB tables: Determine which DynamoDB tables contain important data that needs to be backed up. Focus on tables that store sensitive or business-critical information.
- 2.
Determine backup frequency: Decide how often you will perform backups based on your organization's needs and corresponding recovery point objectives (RPOs). Common backup frequencies could be daily, weekly, or even real-time (continuous).
- 3.
Select a backup method: Choose an appropriate backup method based on your requirements. AWS provides various options for DynamoDB backups, such as On-Demand Backup, AWS Data Pipeline, or custom solutions using AWS Lambda or AWS Glue. Select the method that best aligns with your needs and available resources.
- 4.
Configure backup settings: Set up the backup configurations for DynamoDB tables using the chosen method. This includes specifying the backup frequency, retention period, and storage destination.
- 5.
Test backup and restore procedures: Validate the backup and restore procedures to ensure they are functioning as expected. Perform test restores to verify the integrity of the backed-up data.
- 6.
Monitor backup activities: Continuously monitor the backup activities and log any errors or issues encountered during the backup process. Regularly check the status of backups to ensure they are successfully completed.
- 7.
Periodically review and update backup plan: Review your backup plan periodically and make necessary adjustments as your data management requirements or business needs evolve. Consider changes in data volume, table structure, or compliance requirements.
By following these steps, you can effectively include DynamoDB tables in your backup plan as recommended by the NIST CSF v1.