Partial Monthly Verification of Data Transfer Logs
Data transfer logs are checked monthly to ensure some accuracy and compliance.
Plain language
Data transfer logs need to be reviewed at least once a month to make sure they're accurate and follow legal rules. This is important because if these logs aren't checked, businesses might miss errors or breaches, leading to possible legal issues and security risks.
Framework
ASD Information Security Manual (ISM)
Control effect
Detective
Classifications
NC, OS, P, S, TS
ISM last updated
Feb 2022
Control Stack last updated
19 Mar 2026
E8 maturity levels
N/A
Guideline
Guidelines for data transfersSection
Data transfersOfficial control statement
Data transfer logs for systems are partially verified at least monthly.
Why it matters
Failing to verify data transfer logs monthly can miss unauthorised transfers or errors, causing data breaches and regulatory non-compliance.
Operational notes
Schedule partial verification of data transfer logs at least monthly; record results, retain evidence, and investigate anomalies or unexpected transfer volumes promptly.
Implementation tips
- A data officer should take responsibility for organising the monthly checks of data transfer logs. They can do this by setting a reminder in a calendar and gathering the necessary logs from all relevant systems.
- An IT professional should assess the accuracy of the logs by comparing the recorded transfers against a list of authorised transfers. They should highlight any discrepancies for further investigation.
- A compliance officer should coordinate with the IT team to ensure that all logs are being reviewed for compliance with legal standards such as the Privacy Act. This can be done by checking against current legal requirements and guidelines.
- The management team should schedule regular training sessions for staff involved in data handling to ensure they understand the importance of accurate logging and compliance. Such sessions can include workshops or online modules.
- The IT team should set up automated alerts to flag unusual or unexpected log entries that might indicate a problem. They can use simple scripts or software tools that are user-friendly and don't require advanced programming skills.
Audit / evidence tips
- AskThe monthly review schedule of data transfer logs: Confirm that there is a documented plan showing when and who reviews each system's logs GoodIncludes clear dates and assigned reviewers
- AskTo see the results of a recent log review: Request a report that summarises the findings of a monthly log review GoodShows identified issues and documented resolutions
- AskThe compliance check documentation: Request evidence that logs were checked against compliance standards GoodIncludes compliance notes and identified gaps
- AskTraining records regarding data handling: Request documentation of any training sessions held for staff involved in data transfer logging GoodIncludes recent training dates and topics covered
- AskA list of authorised data transfers: Request documentation that lists all standard, expected data transfers GoodShows consistent cross-referencing and updates
Cross-framework mappings
How ISM-1294 relates to controls across ISO/IEC 27001, ISO/IEC 42001, Essential Eight, and ASD ISM.
No cross-framework mappings recorded yet.