📌 File Integrity Monitoring (FIM) Summary
File Integrity Monitoring (FIM) is a security process that checks and tracks changes to files on a computer system or network. It helps ensure that important files, such as system configurations or sensitive data, are not changed without authorisation. FIM tools alert administrators if files are modified, deleted, or added unexpectedly, helping to detect potential security breaches or unauthorised activity.
🙋🏻♂️ Explain File Integrity Monitoring (FIM) Simply
Imagine you keep a diary and want to make sure no one reads or changes your entries without your permission. File Integrity Monitoring is like setting up a camera to watch your diary and notify you if someone tries to open or alter it. This way, you always know if something suspicious happens to your important information.
📅 How Can it be used?
FIM can be used in a project to monitor critical files for unauthorised changes and quickly alert IT staff to potential security breaches.
🗺️ Real World Examples
A hospital uses File Integrity Monitoring to watch over patient record files on its servers. If someone attempts to modify or delete a record without proper clearance, the FIM system immediately alerts the IT security team, allowing them to investigate and respond before sensitive data is compromised.
An online retailer implements FIM on its web servers to detect and report any unauthorised changes to website files. When a hacker tries to inject malicious code into a payment page, the FIM system notices the unexpected change and notifies administrators, helping prevent potential fraud.
✅ FAQ
What is File Integrity Monitoring and why is it important?
File Integrity Monitoring, or FIM, is a way of keeping an eye on important files on your computer or network to make sure they are not changed, deleted or added without proper permission. This matters because unexpected changes to files can be a sign of hacking or mistakes that could put sensitive data at risk. By using FIM, organisations can spot unusual activity quickly and take action to protect their systems.
How does File Integrity Monitoring work in everyday use?
In practice, File Integrity Monitoring tools regularly scan key files like system settings or sensitive documents. If something changes unexpectedly, such as a new file appearing or a setting being altered, the tool sends an alert to the system administrator. This helps people running the computers know about potential problems straight away, so they can check what happened and fix any issues before they become serious.
Who should consider using File Integrity Monitoring?
Any organisation or individual responsible for sensitive data or running critical systems can benefit from File Integrity Monitoring. It is especially useful for businesses that handle personal information, run websites, or need to meet security regulations. Even small businesses and home users can use FIM to add an extra layer of protection to their important files.
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🔗 External Reference Links
File Integrity Monitoring (FIM) link
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