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collecting data with log files, such as IP addresses

by huron
4 replies
Hi,

I know it's required by law for your website to collect and use data contained in the log files such as IP addresses so that law enforcement can use it.

Is there any software I have to buy that can do this? Or does the web hosting provider do this automatically?

thanks.
#addresses #collecting #data #files #log
  • Profile picture of the author Warrior X
    Originally Posted by huron View Post

    Hi,

    I know it's required by law for your website to collect and use data contained in the log files such as IP addresses so that law enforcement can use it.
    It that correct? I'm sitting here thinking why on earth is that my responsibility as a small business person?!?
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  • Profile picture of the author eminc
    Originally Posted by huron View Post

    Is there any software I have to buy that can do this? Or does the web hosting provider do this automatically?
    If you have the log file, you can run AWStats on it to find specific information. It also gives you number of visits, visit duration etc.

    AWStats - Free log file analyzer for advanced statistics (GNU GPL).

    Mohit
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  • Profile picture of the author huron
    Well, I heard that log files are required, but I am not sure what type of websites are required to have them. Law enforcement uses them to track IP addresses, and I have seen a website where it states it uses log files. Does anyone know more about this?
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  • Profile picture of the author onSubie
    Hi

    All the log files are collected and stored by your host. Your AWStats are from your log files. You do not have to set that up.

    If you ever got a request for log files, you could forward the request to your hosting company to provide the logs.

    If you are under investigation, it is more likely the authorities would get the log files from your host without informing you. (hopefully with a a warrant...lol)

    If it is part of a larger investigation involving your site among others, but not you specifically, again the authorities would be more likely to go to the host company for that.

    If you have an unusual set up or run your own servers you may need to do something, but if you have the skill to set up, run and maintain your own servers, you also likely know all about log files...

    Mahlon
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