View source for Data Loss Prevention (DLP)

'''Data Loss Prevention (DLP)''' is a set of strategies, policies, and technologies designed to protect sensitive information from unauthorized access, disclosure, or exfiltration. The primary goal of DLP is to prevent the accidental or intentional leakage of sensitive data, such as personally identifiable information (PII), intellectual property, financial data, or health records, outside an organization's controlled environment.

DLP solutions typically include the following components:
*'''Identification and classification of sensitive data''': DLP systems use various techniques, such as pattern matching, keyword searches, regular expressions, or machine learning algorithms, to identify and classify sensitive data based on predefined rules, policies, or data attributes.
*'''Data monitoring and filtering''': DLP systems monitor and analyze data in motion (e.g., emails, instant messages, file transfers) and data at rest (e.g., stored files, databases) to detect and prevent unauthorized access, disclosure, or exfiltration of sensitive information. This may involve blocking, quarantining, or encrypting the data, depending on the organization's policies and risk tolerance.
*'''Policy enforcement and management''': DLP systems allow organizations to define and enforce data protection policies, specifying the conditions under which sensitive data can be accessed, shared, or transmitted. This may include role-based access controls, data handling rules, or data retention policies, among others.
*'''Incident response and reporting''': DLP systems provide incident response and reporting capabilities, enabling organizations to investigate data loss events, assess their impact, and take appropriate corrective actions, such as user education, policy updates, or legal actions.

DLP solutions can be implemented in various forms, such as:
*'''Endpoint-based DLP''': Endpoint-based DLP solutions are installed on end-user devices, such as desktops, laptops, or mobile devices, to monitor and control the access, use, and transmission of sensitive data on those devices.
*'''Network-based DLP''': Network-based DLP solutions are deployed at the network level, inspecting network traffic for sensitive data and enforcing data protection policies to prevent data leakage via email, web, or file transfer protocols.
*'''Storage-based DLP''': Storage-based DLP solutions are integrated with data storage systems, such as file servers, databases, or cloud storage, to monitor and control the access, use, and sharing of sensitive data stored in those systems.
*'''Cloud-based DLP''': Cloud-based DLP solutions are delivered as a service, offering centralized data protection capabilities across an organization's on-premises and cloud-based environments.

The main benefits of DLP include:
*'''Reduced risk of data breaches''': DLP helps organizations minimize the risk of data breaches by detecting and preventing unauthorized access, disclosure, or exfiltration of sensitive information.
*'''Compliance with data protection regulations''': DLP solutions help organizations comply with data protection regulations, such as GDPR, HIPAA, or CCPA, by enforcing data handling policies and demonstrating due diligence in safeguarding sensitive data.
*'''Improved visibility and control over sensitive data''': DLP provides organizations with greater visibility and control over their sensitive data, enabling them to identify potential risks, monitor data usage patterns, and enforce data protection policies more effectively.
*'''Enhanced incident response and reporting capabilities''': DLP systems offer advanced incident response and reporting capabilities, allowing organizations to quickly detect, investigate, and remediate data loss events and mitigate their impact.

In summary, Data Loss Prevention (DLP) is a set of strategies, policies, and technologies designed to protect sensitive information from unauthorized access, disclosure, or exfiltration. DLP solutions help organizations reduce the risk of data breaches, comply with data protection regulations, improve visibility


== See Also ==
*[[Network Security]] - Broader context in which DLP operates, aimed at protecting the integrity, confidentiality, and availability of data.
*[Firewall]] - A network security system that monitors and filters incoming and outgoing network traffic; DLP features may be included.
*[[Information Security]] - An overarching practice that includes DLP among other methods to secure data and information systems.
*[[Data Governance]] - Involves the overall management of data; DLP can be a part of a larger data governance strategy.
*[[Intrusion Detection System (IDS)]] - Monitors networks for signs of malicious activity, complements DLP by providing another layer of security.
*[[Identity and Access Management (IAM)]] - Ensures that only authorized personnel can access certain data, complements DLP measures.
*[[Cyber Security]] - A broader field focused on protecting systems, networks, and data from digital attacks; DLP is one aspect.
*[[Disaster Recovery Plan (DRP)]]
*[[Business Continuity Plan (BCP)]]