What is data aggregation and how can it be a security issue?
Data aggregation is the process in which raw data is gathered and described in a summarized format for statistical analysis and decision-making purposes and thereby achieve business objectives. It is the process of compiling large amount of data from a given database or other sources and converting it into a more usable and informative form. And it is often applicable in data warehousing and data mining fields to make learned decisions based on large amount of raw data and minimize performance issues in data processing activities. Because, queries of data in aggregated forms provide faster feedback and efficient results. Moreover, it provides the capability to forecast emerging trends and helps in predictive modeling endeavors.
Data aggregation is the process of gathering data from various data sources and storing it in unified format for data processing and analysis. Furthermore, it is the process of removing duplicate data and helps to get more information about stored data using various variables.
Database systems provide various functions that combine records from one or more tables generate useful information and reports. This happens through a data aggregation concept. However, this practice may cause security vulnerabilities to information systems if it is not done properly. And attacks emanating from data aggregation processes due to the collection of numerous low level security attributes and combine them to create something of a higher security level. Through this process, a person or group could collect multiple useful facts about a system and then apply those facts to stage a cyberattack.