Audit Program For DB2 A Comprehensive Overview
Audit Program For DB2 A Comprehensive Overview
A robust audit program for your DB2 database is essential for maintaining data integrity, compliance, and
security. It provides a comprehensive record of database activities, enabling you to detect and respond to
unauthorized access, data breaches, and system anomalies.
Key Components of a DB2 Audit Program
A well-structured DB2 audit program encompasses the following elements:
1. Audit Objectives and Scope
Clearly define the purpose of the audit, such as compliance, security, performance, or data
integrity.
Determine the specific DB2 components to be audited (e.g., database objects, users, privileges,
access controls).
Identify the scope of the audit, including the frequency and duration.
2. Audit Standards and Guidelines
Adhere to relevant industry standards and regulations (e.g., PCI DSS, HIPAA, GDPR).
Establish internal audit procedures and guidelines.
Develop a checklist for audit activities.
3. Audit Data Collection
Utilize DB2 audit functions to capture relevant events (e.g., data access, schema changes,
privilege modifications).
Collect system logs, security logs, and application logs.
Gather information on user activities and system configurations.
4. Audit Analysis and Reporting
Analyze audit data to identify anomalies, security incidents, and compliance issues.
Generate comprehensive audit reports with clear findings and recommendations.
Distribute reports to relevant stakeholders (e.g., IT management, security team, compliance
officers).
5. Audit Response and Remediation
Develop incident response plans to address security breaches and data loss.
Implement corrective actions to address audit findings.
Monitor the effectiveness of remediation efforts.
Essential Audit Areas for DB2
Access Control: Verify that access controls are properly configured and enforced.
Data Integrity: Assess data accuracy, completeness, and consistency.
Security: Evaluate the database's vulnerability to threats and attacks.
Performance: Monitor database performance and identify bottlenecks.
Compliance: Ensure adherence to regulatory requirements.
DB2 Audit Features and Tools
DB2 Audit Facility: Built-in auditing capabilities to track database events.
Log Analysis Tools: Analyze audit logs for patterns and anomalies.
Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) Solutions: Correlate DB2 audit data
with other system logs for comprehensive security monitoring.
Best Practices for DB2 Auditing
Regular Review: Conduct audits on a regular basis to identify emerging risks.
Effective Communication: Maintain open communication with database administrators and
other stakeholders.
Continuous Improvement: Refine the audit program based on findings and evolving threats.
Automation: Leverage automation tools to streamline audit processes.
Training: Provide training to database administrators on audit requirements and procedures.
By following these guidelines and leveraging the capabilities of DB2, you can establish a robust audit
program that protects your critical database assets.