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Security Operations · Foundational

Honeyfile

A decoy file, often with an enticing name, that triggers an alert when accessed.

Definition

Honeyfiles such as passwords.xlsx are placed on file shares or endpoints; legitimate users have no reason to open them. Access is logged through file auditing or embedded beacons. They detect insider snooping and intruder discovery activity.

Example

An alert fires when someone opens "Executive_Salaries_2026.xlsx" on a file share.

Exam tip

Security+ lists honeyfile and honeytoken as deception technologies.

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