In the realm of data, MySQL is a widely used open-source relational database management system. In reality, some of the most popular websites and web apps in the world, such as Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, WordPress, and phpBB to mention a few, use it as their database system of choice.
As one might expect, it is crucial to keep this data secure given the volume and range of consumer applications. Consider this article a helpful guide for preserving the security of your MySQL databases.
Remove default credentials, port assignments, and other configurations.
When setting up your database, MySQL does an excellent job of getting you started. But occasionally it’s beneficial to tweak the same quickstart elements. By personalizing your database and removing the defaults, you may quickly avoid this. Some particular acts consist of:
- After installation, remove the test database because, by default, all users have full access to it, making it a common target.
- Remove the default anonymous accounts that MySQL creates during installation because they serve no purpose.
- Change default port mappings: MySQL’s default port, 3306, may need to be changed in order to avoid showing up in net-wise scans. It goes without saying that you shouldn’t make your database accessible to networks outside of the corporate network.
Limit Online Access
Keep network access limited to what is absolutely necessary. For instance, make sure it can only communicate with that application if your MySQL only permits connections from that. Additionally, make sure that all user remote access is tracked and managed. For instance, when engineers access production data to look at problems.
Give users only the permissions they require
Abide by the least privilege concept. Users frequently have access to more resources than they actually require. This occurs frequently as a result of using common users rather than unique users, a DBA bottleneck caused by the volume of access requests, or just a failure to revoke access when it is no longer required.
This can lead to other issues including data corruption and other operational difficulties in addition to increasing the security threats. Give users just necessary rights and access to complete their tasks, then revoke it as soon as it is no longer required.
Use Non-Root Accounts
You have total power over the database when you use a root account. It’s a useful tool, but in the wrong hands, it might seriously compromise the security of your data. Instead than depending on generalized root user roles, build new accounts with the precise, required permissions.
Keep Auditing and Monitoring
Access logs are crucial because they let you know who is accessing your data and precisely what operations they are carrying out. This is crucial for security investigations as well as reporting. Such audits are required by some laws, in addition to organizational regulations, including HIPAA, GDPR, CPRA, and others; failing to comply with these laws could result in significant fines.
Strong Authentication Credentials And Encryption
Make sure you select robust authentication credentials that will make it difficult for attackers to access your MySQL servers when configuring authentication. This implies that you must be careful when storing authentication credentials. And, if possible implement and encryption for highly important data and save it in the database in the encrypted format and decrypt it when needed.