Log file

A log file is a file, typically unstructured text, that records events that occur within an application or computer system. Log files are indispensable in tracking system activities and troubleshooting problems. Log files can include a wide range of data including authentication records, transaction records, and internal debugging information. Log files are typically considered low risk data, as they typically do not contain sensitive or regulated information. However, it is not uncommon for sensitive data such as user identifiers, passwords, personal data, or financial data, to find its way into log files, either by accident or because application developers are not aware of the risks. In these cases, log files can unknowingly become toxic, bringing risk of a data breach or compliance violations if the issues are not identified, classified, and remediated in a timely manner.