Tamper-proof privileged user access system

Glossary

Term Definition Access Event Any command, request, input, selection, and/or any other suitable action performed by a user device on a specific network (e.g., an enterprise network). Blockchain An immutable database maintained collectively by nodes in a distributed ledger network. Consensus The agreement among nodes in a distributed ledger network on the validity of a transaction or block. Consensus Components in a node that implement a consensus algorithm, such as proof of work, proof of stake, etc. Distributed Ledger Network A distributed, decentralized, cryptographically secured network in which a copy of the system log is stored on the nodes of the system. Enterprise Network An organization’s local area network (LAN) and/or wide area network (WAN) that connects computing devices within offices or other building structures of a global organization. Hash A one-way cryptographic function that converts data of arbitrary length into a fixed-length string. Immutable Cannot be changed. Node A participant in a distributed ledger network that maintains a copy of the blockchain and participates in network operations. Private Key A secret key used to decrypt data, generate digital signatures, and authorize transactions. Privileged Access A level of permission that allows a user or process to make administrative changes to a network or other resources. Privileged Access Management (PAM)A technical infrastructure that helps organizations restrict access to specific actions or resources (e.g., files, applications, network settings changes, etc.) by managing “who” or “what” has specific permissions on a network. Public keys are paired with private keys and are used to encrypt data and verify digital signatures. System logA file that automatically records an audit trail of every transaction or event that occurs on a given network.A record of data that a transaction proposes in a distributed ledger network, such as recording an access event.A transaction blockA portion of a blockchain that contains a set of verified transactions.A verification process that determines if a transaction is valid and complies with the rules of the network.

Short Answer Questions

What is a system log? Why is it important to track privileged user access events?

What are the weaknesses of traditional system logs?

How do distributed ledger networks improve the security of system logs?

Describe the concept of a “block” in a blockchain and how it relates to access events.

What is “consensus” and how is it important in maintaining the integrity of system logs?

What is the difference between a “private” blockchain system and a “public” blockchain system?

What are the advantages of a “consortium” blockchain system?

How can privacy issues be addressed when logging access events on a public blockchain system?

Explain the role of “hashing” in ensuring the integrity of system logs.

Why is it necessary to make system logs immutable even for users with administrative privileges?

Answer

A system log is a file or data set that records events that occur on a computer system or network. Tracking privileged user access events is critical because it can provide an audit trail of sensitive actions, help detect and investigate security incidents, and ensure accountability.

Traditional system logs are vulnerable to a variety of threats, including tampering, deletion, and unauthorized access. This is because they are typically stored on centralized servers that can be accessed and modified by individuals with sufficient privileges.

Distributed ledger networks enhance the security of system logs by creating a secure and tamper-proof record of access events. These networks distribute logs across multiple nodes, which makes it very difficult to change or delete data because any modification requires consensus from a majority of the nodes in the network.

In the context of blockchain, a “block” refers to a record containing multiple transactions or events that are linked together in chronological order. Each block contains a unique hash that links to the previous block, creating a tamper-proof chain of transactions. In a system log, each block can represent one or more access events, providing a clear and verifiable history of events.

"Consensus" refers to the process by which nodes in a distributed network reach agreement on the state of a shared ledger. Consensus is critical in maintaining the integrity of system logs because it ensures that all nodes maintain the same copy of the log, preventing any single node from making unauthorized modifications to the log.

Private blockchain networks are typically controlled by a single organization, while public blockchain networks are open to anyone to participate. Private blockchains offer greater control and privacy, while public blockchains offer greater transparency and tamper-resistance.

Consortium blockchain networks combine the advantages of private and public blockchains. They allow a group of organizations to share a distributed ledger, providing network participants with greater trust and transparency while maintaining a certain level of privacy and control.

To address privacy concerns when recording access events on public blockchain systems, cryptography can be used to protect sensitive data. Encryption ensures that only authorized parties can decrypt and view access event details while maintaining a publicly verifiable record of transactions.

A hash is a one-way function that converts data of arbitrary length into a fixed-length string. In system logs, hashes are used to create a unique fingerprint for each block. By linking the hash of each block to the previous block, a tamper-proof chain of transactions can be created. Any changes to the logs will alter the hash value, making any tampering easily detectable.

Making system logs immutable is critical, even for users with administrative privileges, as it prevents the masking of malicious activity. By creating a permanent record of events that cannot be altered, accountability is ensured and the ability to conduct a full and fair investigation of security incidents is preserved.