Overview

This article will explain the ACSIA alert called "log file size changed".

Explaining the log file size changed

"Log file size changed" in the context of cybersecurity means that the size of a log file, which records important events and activities on a computer system or network, has been altered or manipulated. This change in the log file size could indicate suspicious activity, as someone may be attempting to hide or cover up their actions by modifying or deleting log entries.

Example of a "log file size changed" attack:

Let's consider a large organization with an extensive computer network used for various operations. The network generates log files to keep track of user logins, system activities, and security events.

A malicious insider, an employee with access to the network, decides to misuse their privileges to steal sensitive data from the company. They know that their activities will be logged, which could potentially lead to their discovery.

To avoid detection, the malicious insider initiates a "log file size changed" attack. They access the system's log files and proceed to manipulate them. Specifically, they remove or modify log entries related to their unauthorized access and data exfiltration.

By changing the log file size, the insider tries to hide their tracks, making it appear as though no suspicious activities occurred. They may also attempt to fill the log file with irrelevant information to distract from their malicious actions.

This way, when the security team or administrators review the log files, they may not immediately notice the tampering. The altered log file may give a false impression of normal system behavior, making it difficult for cybersecurity experts to identify the security breach and trace the actions of the insider.

ACSIA alerts you when a log file size change attack is being performed on your infrastructure.