Ensuring data integrity during database security incident tracing involves maintaining the accuracy, consistency, and trustworthiness of data throughout the investigation process. Here’s how to achieve it:
Immutable Logging
Use write-once-read-many (WORM) storage or blockchain-based logging to prevent tampering with audit logs. Logs should record all access attempts, modifications, and user activities with timestamps.
Example: If a database admin detects unauthorized data changes, immutable logs can prove whether the alteration occurred before or after a specific backup.
Checksums and Hashing
Apply cryptographic hashes (e.g., SHA-256) to critical data before and after incidents to detect alterations. Compare hashes to verify if data has been modified.
Example: Before investigating a suspected breach, hash sensitive tables. If post-incident hashes differ, it confirms data tampering.
Database Snapshots and Backups
Regularly take encrypted snapshots or backups to preserve the state of the database at specific times. Use these to compare with the current state during an investigation.
Example: Tencent Cloud’s TencentDB for MySQL offers automated backups and point-in-time recovery, allowing you to restore a clean version for analysis.
Access Controls and Least Privilege
Restrict access to logs and backups using role-based access control (RBAC). Only authorized personnel should handle incident tracing.
Example: Tencent Cloud’s CAM (Cloud Access Management) lets you define granular permissions for who can view or modify audit logs.
Digital Signatures
Sign critical logs or reports with digital certificates to ensure authenticity. This prevents attackers from forging evidence.
Example: If you generate an incident report, signing it with a private key ensures recipients can verify its integrity.
Tencent Cloud Services for Data Integrity
By combining these methods, you can ensure data integrity while tracing security incidents, minimizing the risk of evidence tampering.