Submit a security plan to secure the organization’s database. The security plan will be submitted to the CIO. The organization has many concerns about unauthorized access, since there have been reports that some confidential information has been accessed from the database. Specifically, the CIO would like a plan that will ensure log files can be reviewed to determine who accessed the data, when it was accessed, and what was changed in the database. To complete this task, you will need to examine the DBMS used by your organization and identify the current security measures provided. You can view the SQL Server log files by logging into the VDI. Following are the types of log files you can access using the Log File viewer. After reviewing these files, list the potential threats that could occur and propose countermeasures to overcome them. Describe the use of potential uses of cloud computing services by your organization and list the potential threats, implications, and countermeasures.

Security Plan for Securing the Organization’s Database

Introduction:
In order to address concerns about unauthorized access and protect the organization’s database, a comprehensive security plan needs to be developed and implemented. This plan will ensure that log files can be reviewed to determine who accessed the data, when it was accessed, and what changes were made in the database. To create an effective security plan, it is essential to examine the database management system (DBMS) used by the organization and identify its current security measures. Additionally, potential threats and countermeasures should be identified and evaluated. This plan will be submitted to the Chief Information Officer (CIO) for approval and implementation.

Database Management System (DBMS) Analysis:
Before proposing countermeasures to address potential threats, it is crucial to review the DBMS used by the organization and understand its security features and capabilities. In this case, the organization utilizes SQL Server as the DBMS. To access the relevant log files, one can log into the Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI) and use the Log File viewer. The following types of log files are accessible:

1. Audit Logs: These logs record user activity and system events, providing information about who accessed the database, when they accessed it, and what actions they performed.
2. Error Logs: These logs capture information about any errors or exceptions that occur within the database system, helping to identify potential vulnerabilities and threats.
3. Transaction Logs: These logs track changes made to the database, ensuring data integrity and providing a trail of modifications for review and audit purposes.
4. Security Logs: These logs focus on security-related events, such as failed login attempts or unauthorized access attempts, allowing for prompt detection and investigation of potential breaches.

Identifying Potential Threats and Countermeasures:
After reviewing the log files and DBMS, it is essential to identify potential threats that could compromise the security of the organization’s database. Some common threats include:

1. Unauthorized Access: This refers to individuals gaining unauthorized entry into the database, either through exploiting vulnerabilities or obtaining login credentials illicitly. Countermeasures to address this threat include implementing strong access controls, such as multi-factor authentication and regularly updating and patching the DBMS to address security flaws.

2. Data Breach: A data breach occurs when confidential information is accessed or stolen by unauthorized individuals. To address this threat, encryption should be used to protect sensitive data both at rest and in transit. Additionally, regular security audits and vulnerability assessments should be conducted to identify and mitigate any weaknesses in the system.

3. Insider Threats: This refers to the risks posed by authorized users, such as employees, who intentionally or accidentally misuse their access privileges. Countermeasures include implementing strict access control policies, regularly monitoring and reviewing user activities, and providing ongoing security awareness training for employees.

4. Malware Attacks: Malicious software, such as viruses or ransomware, can be used to compromise the security of the organization’s database. To mitigate this threat, regular system scans, employing robust antivirus software, and implementing intrusion detection systems are recommended.

Additionally, it is important to outline the potential uses of cloud computing services by the organization and assess the associated threats, implications, and countermeasures. This will involve evaluating the security measures and certifications of the chosen cloud service provider, implementing appropriate data encryption techniques, and monitoring access controls and privilege management in the cloud environment.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, the security plan for securing the organization’s database should address the concerns of unauthorized access by reviewing the current security measures provided by the DBMS. Potential threats should be identified, and countermeasures should be proposed to overcome them. Furthermore, the use of cloud computing services should be evaluated, and the associated threats, implications, and countermeasures should be considered. By implementing this security plan, the organization can enhance the protection of its database and ensure the integrity and confidentiality of its data.