5651 Logging Consultancy

What is KVKK, and what is its role in the logging process?

KVKK stands for the Law on the Protection of Personal Data in Turkey. It came into force on April 7, 2016, and sets the rules for the processing, protection, and usage rights of personal data.

The logging process is the act of recording events that happen within a system or network. During this process, user activities, security incidents, errors, and other events are logged.

The role of KVKK in the logging process is to ensure the security of personal data. The law requires security measures to be implemented during the processing of personal data and protection against risks such as unauthorized access, modification, or deletion. Therefore, it is important to record all actions within a system or network. These records help detect security incidents, unauthorized access attempts, predict potential violations, and respond accordingly. Additionally, KVKK requires the use of logs in detecting and reporting personal data breaches.

What are the KVKK rules that must be followed during the logging process?

Personal data protection is an important issue today. Since logging is part of personal data processing, KVKK rules must also be followed in this process. KVKK regulates the processing, storage, transmission, and deletion of personal data. Below are the rules to follow during the logging process:

1. Application of Principles:

KVKK requires the application of various principles when processing personal data. It is essential to apply these principles during the logging process. These principles include legality, fairness, purpose limitation, and data minimization. The logging process should ensure that personal data is processed only for specific, necessary purposes.

2. Obligation to Inform:

KVKK imposes an obligation on data controllers to inform individuals about the processing of their personal data. In the logging process, the data controller must inform individuals about how their data is processed, why it is stored, and who it is shared with. Information about the logging process must be provided clearly and understandably.

3. Monitoring and Auditing:

KVKK requires appropriate measures to be taken for monitoring and auditing the logging process. Issues such as who can access the log information and for how long it is stored should be controlled according to established policies and procedures. Moreover, audit logs should be kept, and appropriate technical and organizational measures should be taken to detect unauthorized access.

4. Data Security:

KVKK mandates the secure processing and storage of personal data. In the logging process, data security should be a priority. Logs must be protected against unauthorized access, and appropriate cryptographic measures should be taken. The security of the tools used for logging should also be ensured.

Following KVKK rules during the logging process is crucial for protecting personal data. Compliance with these rules ensures security for both the data controller and the individuals involved. By focusing on applying principles, informing individuals, monitoring and auditing, and ensuring data security, the logging process can be carried out in accordance with KVKK, contributing to data protection.

What should be considered when creating a company’s logging policy?

First, it's essential to define the purpose and scope of the logging policy. The company must determine which systems, software, or networks will be logged. The main objective of the policy should be clearly defined. The policy should specify what data will be collected, how it will be collected, and for how long it will be stored. It should clearly state which types of logs will be collected and which parameters will be monitored. Depending on the company's needs, the level of logging should be determined. In some cases, daily logging may suffice, while in other cases, more detailed logs might be necessary. The logging level should be clearly defined and applied. Access to the log data and usage permissions should be specified. Only authorized personnel should have access to the logs, and unauthorized access should be prevented. Log data should be stored in compliance with privacy and security policies. The policy should also outline how the logs will be monitored and analyzed. Continuous monitoring and analysis of log data is important for identifying security threats and preventing issues. The policy should specify how log data will be reported and who it will be shared with. When security incidents or errors are detected, quick notifications should be sent to the relevant personnel or managers. The logging policy should be regularly reviewed and updated. Since technology and security requirements constantly change, the policy should be updated accordingly. Training should be provided on the logging policy, and all company employees should be informed about it. The policy should be understood and followed by all personnel.

How to create a KVKK-compliant logging infrastructure?

KVKK (Law on the Protection of Personal Data) is an essential law in Turkey regarding the processing and protection of personal data. Creating a KVKK-compliant logging infrastructure is crucial for ensuring the protection of personal data and respecting privacy rights. Here are the steps to create such an infrastructure:

1. Identify Personal Data Categories:

The first step is to determine the types of personal data being processed and their level of sensitivity. It is important to categorize this data and take necessary precautions if needed.

2. Determine Legal Grounds:

Follow the legal grounds outlined in the law to ensure a lawful basis for processing personal data. There could be different legal grounds for processing, such as explicit consent, legal obligations, contractual necessity, or legitimate interests.

3. Take Precautions Against Data Breaches:

KVKK requires measures to prevent personal data breaches and mandates their immediate reporting. Your logging infrastructure should have mechanisms to detect data breaches and record them accurately.

4. Monitor Data Access and Processing:

A crucial step in creating KVKK-compliant logging infrastructure is to monitor access and processing of personal data. It is important to record unauthorized access attempts and the actions of authorized users to detect potential security breaches and identify responsible parties.

5. Define Logging Processes:

It is important to define which data will be recorded in your logging infrastructure. This includes determining the duration of data processing as required by KVKK. Logging processes should be implemented in line with these durations to avoid unnecessary data processing.

6. Define Authorization and Auditing Processes:

Determine who can access which data in your logging infrastructure and assign authorizations accordingly. Additionally, create a mechanism to regularly control and audit these processes. This ensures compliance with your obligations regarding personal data protection.

7. Respect the Rights of Data Subjects:

KVKK guarantees the rights of individuals to access, rectify, erase, and transfer their personal data. Creating a KVKK-compliant logging infrastructure ensures that these rights are respected and that individuals can be provided with the necessary information when required.

How to ensure the storage and security of log data?

The storage and security of log data are critical components of an organization’s security policies. Log data contains vital information about network activities and system events, making it essential for detecting and investigating security incidents. To ensure the storage and security of log data:

• Regular backups should be made to prevent data loss.

• Log data should be encrypted using strong and up-to-date encryption algorithms to secure it from unauthorized access.

• Access to log data should be restricted, ensuring only authorized individuals can view it.

• Log data should be stored securely, either on a secure server or cloud-based system, to prevent data loss or damage in case of a disaster.

How to report in compliance with KVKK during the logging process?

To ensure KVKK-compliant reporting:

• Clearly define the purpose of data collection and processing.

• Inform individuals about their rights and the data being collected.

• Protect log data from unauthorized access or modification.

• Specify retention periods for logs and ensure they are retained only as necessary.

• Obtain written consent from relevant parties for logging activities.

• Provide responses to requests from individuals regarding their data.

How to prevent and detect KVKK violations in the logging process?

To prevent and detect KVKK violations:

• Anonymize user data wherever possible.

• Implement access controls and authorization to limit who can access log data.

• Encrypt log data to prevent unauthorized access.

• Regularly monitor and analyze log data for suspicious activities.

• Improve control and auditing processes to detect violations promptly.

What advantages does a KVKK-compliant logging process provide to companies?

A KVKK-compliant logging process provides several advantages to companies:

• Data Security: Helps ensure personal data protection and prevent unauthorized access.

• Incident Detection: Enables quick detection and response to security incidents.

• Legal Compliance: Helps companies comply with legal obligations under KVKK.

• Troubleshooting: Helps identify system issues and improve performance.

• Corporate Image: Enhances the company's reputation by showing commitment to data privacy.

By following these practices, companies can ensure they protect personal data and remain compliant with KVKK, offering both legal protection and a competitive advantage.