Data IntegritySTD_2019v1

Timestamp Immutability Rule

Ensures audit timestamps (created_at, updated_at) cannot be modified by users and are system-generated only.

Owner: Unassigned

Updated: 10/31/2025

Business Rule

Audit trails must be tamper-proof for regulatory compliance and forensic analysis.

Technical Implementation

Database triggers to auto-populate timestamps. Revoke UPDATE permission on timestamp columns from application users.

Examples

Good practices vs common violations

Good Examples

created_at auto-set by database on INSERT

updated_at auto-set on UPDATE

Poor Examples (Violations)

Users manually entering or modifying created_at timestamps

Additional Information

Target Industries

All

Status

active

Local Network

DQ Improvements

Data quality dimensions improved by this standard

Validity

high

The degree to which data values comply with rules.

Type: prevents

Integrity

high

The degree of absence of data value loss or corruption.

Type: prevents

Traceability

high

The degree to which data lineage is available.

Type: prevents

Quick Stats

Related KPIs0

DQ Improvements3

Versionv1

API Access

GET /api/standards/timestamp-immutability-rule