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D

DLP (Data Loss Prevention)

A set of technologies and processes that prevent sensitive data from leaving the organization through unauthorized channels.

What is DLP?

Data Loss Prevention (DLP) refers to tools and processes that prevent sensitive information from being lost, misused, or accessed by unauthorized users. DLP solutions monitor, detect, and block sensitive data in motion, at rest, and in use.

DLP Types

  • Network DLP: Monitors data in transit across the network
  • Endpoint DLP: Protects data on devices (laptops, desktops)
  • Cloud DLP: Secures data in cloud applications
  • Email DLP: Scans outgoing emails for sensitive content

How DLP Works

  1. Discovery: Identify where sensitive data exists
  2. Classification: Categorize data by sensitivity level
  3. Monitoring: Track data movement and access
  4. Protection: Block or encrypt sensitive data
  5. Reporting: Document incidents and policy violations

Data Detection Methods

  • Content Inspection: Analyze actual content
  • Contextual Analysis: Consider who, what, where, when
  • Pattern Matching: Regular expressions for data formats
  • Machine Learning: Identify sensitive content patterns
  • Fingerprinting: Match against known sensitive documents

Common Use Cases

  • Preventing PII/PHI exposure
  • Protecting intellectual property
  • Ensuring regulatory compliance (GDPR, HIPAA, PCI-DSS)
  • Blocking unauthorized file transfers
  • Monitoring employee data handling