Postgres Audit

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1. Certainly! Here’s a checklist for conducting a security review of PostgreSQL:

   PostgreSQL Security Review Checklist

   1. Authentication and Authorization

   • Password Policies: Ensure strong passwords are enforced (e.g., length, complexity).
   • Authentication Methods: Use secure authentication methods (e.g., SCRAM-SHA-256 instead of MD5).
   • Role Management: Review user roles and permissions; follow the principle of least privilege.
   • Superuser Accounts: Limit the number of superuser accounts and monitor their usage.

   2. Configuration

   • pg_hba.conf: Review access control configurations to restrict IP addresses and enforce strong authentication.
   • postgresql.conf: Ensure that configurations limit connections (e.g., max_connections), enable SSL, and Audit logging.
   • SSL Configuration: Ensure SSL is enabled for encrypted connections; use valid certificates.
   • Data Encryption: Ensure data-at-rest encryption is implemented if sensitive data is stored.

   3. Network Security

   • Firewall Rules: Confirm that there are appropriate firewall rules blocking unauthorized access to the database server.
   • Use Private Connections: If applicable, limit the database to internal networks or VPN access only.
   • Audit Network Traffic: Monitor and log network traffic going to and from the database server.

   4. Logging and Monitoring

   • Logging Configuration: Enable detailed logging for connections, queries, and errors.
   • Log Rotation: Set up log rotation to manage log file sizes and ensure logs are retained for sufficient time.
   • Audit Logging: Consider implementing an auditing extension to track changes and access (e.g., pgAudit).

   5. Backup and Recovery

   • Backup Strategy: Have a consistent backup strategy, ensuring backups are taken regularly and stored securely.
   • Test Restores: Regularly test restoring from backups to ensure data recovery processes work.

   6. Patch Management

   • Version Monitoring: Keep PostgreSQL and all related dependencies updated to the latest stable versions.
   • Patch Management Policy: Establish a patch management schedule for both the database server and operating system.

   7. Vulnerability Assessment

   • Run Security Assessments: Conduct regular vulnerability scans to identify weak points in the database environment.
   • Review Security Advisories: Stay informed of any security advisories or vulnerabilities related to PostgreSQL.

   8. Data Classification and Protection

   • Sensitive Data Management: Identify and classify sensitive data and ensure it is properly protected (e.g., masking, encryption).
   • Retention Policies: Implement data retention policies to manage the lifecycle of sensitive information.

   9. Incident Response

   • Incident Response Plan: Have a documented incident response plan in place for rapid action during a security breach.
   • Damage Control Procedures: Define procedures for containing, eradicating, and recovering from database-related incidents.

   10. Documentation and Training

   • Documentation: Maintain documentation on database configuration, roles, and procedures.
   • Staff Training: Provide security awareness training for DBAs and developers regarding secure coding practices and database security.

   Additional Considerations

   • Use Extensions Wisely: Review and limit the use of extensions to those that are absolutely necessary.
   • Regular Security Reviews: Establish a routine schedule for conducting security reviews and audits.

   By following this checklist, you can enhance the security posture of your PostgreSQL deployment.

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