Database Activity Monitoring (DAM) is a security technology that observes, records, and analyzes database activity in real-time to detect unauthorized access, policy violations, and potential threats. As databases remain prime targets for cybercriminals, DAM has become an essential component of enterprise data security strategies.
Why DAM Matters
Databases contain customer information, financial records, intellectual property, and business-critical data. They face continuous threats from external attackers, malicious insiders, compromised accounts, SQL injection attacks, and privilege escalation attempts.
How DAM Works
Data Collection Methods
- Network-Based Monitoring: Captures database traffic by monitoring network communications—non-intrusive but may miss local connections
- Agent-Based Monitoring: Software agents on database servers capture all connections including encrypted traffic
- Log-Based Monitoring: Analysis of native database audit logs
Core Capabilities
- Real-Time Activity Monitoring: All queries captured and analyzed
- Policy Enforcement: Customizable security rules with automatic violation detection
- Sensitive Data Discovery: Identification and classification of sensitive data
- User Behavior Analytics: Baseline establishment and anomaly detection
- Comprehensive Audit Trails: Detailed transaction logs for forensic investigation
Key Use Cases
Insider Threat Detection: Detect unauthorized data exports, access outside normal hours, and privilege abuse.
Compliance Support: Meet requirements for PCI DSS, HIPAA, SOX, and GDPR with detailed audit trails.
SQL Injection Prevention: Identify and block malicious SQL patterns.
Breach Investigation: Provide forensic evidence and timeline reconstruction.