Data Loss Prevention (DLP) ensures that confidential or sensitive data is not lost, stolen, or unintentionally distributed. It can be used to prevent data breaches and protect an organization’s reputation.

You might have heard about the DLP in the news, but what exactly is it? And how can you use it to protect your data?

What Is Data Loss Prevention (DLP)?

Data Loss Prevention (DLP), also known as Data Leak Prevention, is the practice of identifying, monitoring, and protecting confidential information. This can include social security numbers, credit card information, or trade secrets.

DLP is used to prevent accidental leaks of this information, as well as malicious attacks that may seek to steal it.

This is essential because if this information falls into the wrong hands, cybercriminals can use it for identity theft, fraud, or other malicious activities. It typically involves the use of a combination of technologies including data encryption, activity monitoring, and user training.

Apart from that, in order to maintain compliance with industry and data privacy standards, many organizations utilize DLP to safeguard their Personally Identifiable Information (PII) and private business information.

For example, suppose you are working from home or in an organization with Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) environment. In that case, your organization can use DLP techniques to shield their sensitive data residing on your device.

How Does Data Loss Prevention Work?

DLP technology works in a few different ways.

Firstly, it can be used to identify sensitive data. This is typically done by looking for specific patterns or keywords in files and emails. Once this data is identified, DLP can then be used to monitor how it is being used and shared.

This might include tracking who accesses the data, what they do with it, and where it is being sent.

Organizations can also use DLP to prevent sensitive data from being shared in unauthorized ways. For example, some DLP solutions can block emails that contain sensitive information from being sent to personal email accounts. Others might encrypt files that contain sensitive data so that only authorized users can open them.

Apart from that, by using DLP, you, as a business owner, can also prevent your employees from reading or writing from a USB drive. This prevents unauthorized transferring of data.

And when it comes to detection, business owners can use the DLP application to monitor incoming emails for suspicious attachments or phishing links.

The 3 Types of DLP Solutions

There are a few different types of DLP solutions available, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.

1. On-Premises DLP Solutions

Some organizations choose to install DLP software on their servers and workstations. This allows them to monitor all activity on these devices and identify any sensitive data that is being accessed or shared. Such DLP solutions are known as On-Premise DLP. They offer the greatest level of control and visibility but can be complex to deploy and manage.

2. Network-Based DLP Solutions

In this, organizations choose to deploy DLP sensors at key points in their network, such as email servers or internet gateways. This allows them to monitor traffic for sensitive data that is being sent outside the organization. Network-based DLP solutions are typically easier to deploy than on-premise solutions but offer less visibility into activity on individual devices.

3. Cloud-Based DLP Solutions

Finally, some DLP solutions are cloud-based and are delivered as a service. They can be used to monitor activity across an entire organization, regardless of where the data is stored or how it is being accessed. These solutions are typically the easiest to deploy but may not offer the same level of control and visibility as on-premises solutions.

Why Is Data Loss Prevention Important?

Data loss can have serious consequences for both individuals and organizations.

Identity theft can lead to financial losses and damage your reputation. A data breach can damage your company’s reputation and result in heavy fines. By using DLP, you can help to prevent these events from happening.

DLP can also help you to meet compliance requirements, such as those set by the EU’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).

Under GDPR, organizations must take steps to protect the personal data of their customers and employees. This includes ensuring that this data is only accessed and used by authorized individuals. Failure to comply with GDPR can result in heavy fines.

DLP can further help you meet requirements set by the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS). This standard requires organizations that process credit card payments to take steps to protect this data from being accessed or stolen.

Other than that, data loss prevention is important because it can help to protect your company’s trade secrets and other sensitive information. Your competitors could use this information to gain an advantage over you. By using DLP, you can ensure that this information is only accessed and used by authorized individuals.

Best Practices for Data Loss Preventions

There are a few best practices that you can follow to keep your data safe:

• Encrypt your files: One of the best ways to protect your data is to encrypt it. This will make it unreadable if it falls into the wrong hands.
• Train your employees: It is important to train your employees on how to handle sensitive data. They should know how to identify it and what to do if they come across it.
• Monitor your network: You should monitor your network for any suspicious activity. This will help you identify any unauthorized access to your data.
• Implement a DLP solution: A DLP solution can help you protect your data by identifying, monitoring, and preventing the unauthorized sharing of sensitive information.

Why Should You Opt for DLP in Your Organization?

DLP technology is constantly evolving, and new solutions are being developed all the time. As organizations become more aware of the need to protect their sensitive data, DLP is becoming an increasingly popular solution.

DLP is an essential tool for any business or individual that wants to protect their data. It can help to prevent data loss, meet compliance requirements, and safeguard your reputation. Follow the best practices for data loss prevention to keep your data safe.