The security policies for databases differ from those for websites. Physical actions, software solutions, and even staff education are all part of the former. However, it’s just as crucial to secure your site to limit the attack routes that cyber thieves could use.
Let’s take a look at 10 database security best practices to see how they might assist you in protecting your sensitive data.
Physical database security should be implemented
Outsiders or even internal threats might cause physical damage to data centers or your own systems. If a cybercriminal has physical access to your database server, they can steal data, damage it, or even install malicious malware to obtain remote access. Because these assaults can overcome digital security systems, they might be difficult to detect without extra protection precautions.
When selecting a web hosting provider, choose one that has a proven track record of taking security seriously. It’s also advised to stay away from free hosting providers due to the potential for security issues.
Physical security measures such as cameras, locks, and manned security workers are strongly recommended if you host your own servers. In addition, any access to physical servers should be tracked and limited to specified individuals in order to reduce the possibility of malicious activity.
Database servers that are separate
To protect databases against cyberattacks, particular security procedures are required. Furthermore, storing your data on the same server as your website exposes it to a variety of website-specific attack vectors.
Assume you manage an online store where your site, non-sensitive data, and sensitive data are all stored on the same server. Yes, you may utilize the hosting service’s website security capabilities as well as the eCommerce platform’s security features to safeguard against cyberattacks and fraud. Your sensitive data, on the other hand, is now susceptible to assaults via the site and the online shop platform. Any cybercriminal who gains access to your site or online shop platform has the ability to gain access to your database as well.
Separate your database servers from everything else to reduce these security threats. Use real-time security information and event monitoring (SIEM), which is devoted to database security and helps enterprises to respond quickly in the case of a breach attempt.
Set up a proxy server that uses HTTPS
A proxy server checks requests submitted from a workstation before they reach the database server. In some ways, this server serves as a gatekeeper, attempting to keep unauthorized requests out.
HTTP is used by the majority of proxy servers. Set up an HTTPS server if you’re working with sensitive data like passwords, payment details, or personal information. As a result, the data passing via the proxy server is encrypted, adding an extra degree of protection.
Use alternate network ports instead of the usual ones
When sending data between servers, the TCP and UDP protocols are utilized. When these protocols are set up, they use the default network ports. Due to their widespread use, default ports are frequently utilized in brute force assaults. When not using the default ports, a cyber attacker attempting to attack your server must use trial and error to test alternative port number combinations. Due to the greater labor required, the assailant may be discouraged from continuing their attack attempts.
Check the Internet Assigned Numbers Authority’s port register before allocating a new port to guarantee it isn’t already in use for other services.