Unix systems in many cases record personal data in log files. We present tools that help in practice to retrofit privacy protection
into existing Unix audit systems. Our tools are based on an approach to pseudonymizing Unix log files while balancing user
requirements for anonymity and the service provider’s requirements for accountability. By pseudonymizing identifying data
in log files the association between the data and the real persons is hidden. Only upon good cause shown, such as a proceeding
attack scenario, the identifying data behind the pseudonyms can be revealed. We develop a trust model as well as an architecture
that integrates seamlessly with existing Unix systems. Finally, we provide performance measurements demonstrating that the
tools are sufficiently fast for use at large sites.
This work is currently partially funded by the German Research Council (DFG) under grant number Bi 311/10-2.
Processing, in relation to personal data, covers virtually the entire data life cycle from collection, through to erasure
of the data when no longer required.