Understanding DLP
Data Loss Prevention (DLP) is the practice of detecting and preventing data breaches, exfiltration, or unwanted destruction of sensitive data. DLP solutions monitor data in motion (network traffic), data at rest (storage), and data in use (endpoint activity) to identify and block unauthorized data transfers.
DLP requires a clear data classification policy as its foundation. Before you can prevent data loss, you must define what constitutes sensitive data and where it resides. Common categories include personally identifiable information (PII), protected health information (PHI), payment card data, intellectual property, and financial records.
Modern DLP has expanded beyond on-premises tools to include cloud DLP capabilities that monitor data in SaaS applications, cloud storage, and collaboration platforms. As data increasingly lives in the cloud, cloud-native DLP has become essential for preventing unauthorized data sharing and exposure.
DLP Coverage Areas
Network DLP
Monitors network traffic for sensitive data being transmitted via email, web, FTP, or other protocols.
Endpoint DLP
Monitors endpoint activities including USB transfers, printing, clipboard operations, and screen captures.
Cloud DLP
Monitors data in SaaS applications, cloud storage, and collaboration tools for unauthorized sharing.
Email DLP
Scans outbound email and attachments for sensitive data and policy violations before delivery.