5. Database security function should be segregated from day-to-day database operation function.
Findings:
From observation and discussion with the Database Admin Team, we noted that their responsibilities and system privileges included the following functions: daily database administration, database audit trails configurations, and exporting the audit trails to external system for keeping/retention.
From the internal control point of view, these functions should not be under operation and/or management of one team. They should be segregated to ensure check-and-balance and security control over the customer data and processing integrity. And their system privileges should be assigned based on a need-to-use basis.
Business Impact:
Without proper segregation of incompatible functions (in this case, between database security admin and daily operations functions), unauthorized changes to the security parameters, audit trails/files and critical data may be made without proper acknowledgement and review.
Recommendations for Implementation Priorities: High
Recommendation:
Based on our review, we recommend reviewing and managing segregation of duties between database security administration and database operation functions to enhance check-and-balance control over True Money’s IT operations.
Additionally, retention of audit trails should comply with the Corporate Security Policy including the relevant regulations regarding computer traffic data file management