A simple bash script to lock a Linux user account, archive the home directory, and remove it safely after backup. Written as part of self-study in Linux administration and cybersecurity during my first year of Applied Computer Science at KdG Hogeschool.
Features
- Checks that the script is run as root
- Verifies if the specified user exists
- Locks the user account
- Archives the home directory to /root/blockedUsers
- Removes the home directory after successful backup
- Logs all actions to /var/log/blocked_users.log
- Unlocks the user if the backup fails
Requirements
- Linux system
- Bash
- Root privileges
- Standard utilities: passwd, tar, id
Usage: sudo ./lock_and_archive_user.sh <username>
Example: sudo ./lock_and_archive_user.sh testuser
Backup & Logs
- Backups stored at:
/root/blockedUsers/ - Logs stored at:
/var/log/blocked_users.log
Warning
- This script modifies system user accounts and deletes home directories.
- Use only in test environments or on systems where you have permission.
Learning Goals
- Bash scripting fundamentals
- Linux user management
- Error handling and rollback
- Logging and auditing
- Security-aware scripting practices
License
- MIT License