A backup inventory is a record of an organization’s archived data: where backups are stored, what systems or information they contain, and how far their copies or retention history extend. It may include storage locations, owners, dates, data types, access controls, and retention periods.
In cybersecurity, an accurate inventory helps defenders identify sensitive or outdated copies, restrict access, and determine which archives may be affected during an incident. Attackers may target backup repositories to steal data or disrupt recovery. During an investigation, the inventory helps teams assess the potential scope of exposure and prioritize containment. Keep it current and access-controlled, and avoid storing credentials in backup records.