Data Loss Prevention (DLP) 101: Everything you need to know

As we approach 2023, another year of extreme data consumption ends, leaving a ton of data to be secured. Organizations consume and generate enormous data every year.

Handling this much data can be overwhelming, making it prone to getting leaked on the Internet. This is where the Data Loss Prevention (DLP) system comes into the picture. 

DLP platforms are a must-have for every organization that wants to keep its data secure. Here is everything you need to know about them.

What is Data Loss Prevention (DLP)?

Data Loss Prevention(DLP) is one of the important security strategies of a company to prevent the loss of crucial data and files. It mainly focuses on preventing any data breach and ensuring that sensitive data is not lost or compromised. 

It is a strategy that prevents potential data breaches. The DLP platform will strengthen your system and make it less prone to unauthorized intrusions. It is a security must-have that should be taken seriously, as even the potential of losing crucial data can be a huge worry for your organization. 

Causes of Data Leakage

An organization’s data will always be at risk without proper Data Loss Prevention strategies in place. There could be many reasons for data leakage. Here are some of the major ones for a better understanding of DLP meaning

  • Data often gets leaked when an outsider gains unauthorized access to your storage hardware or private network. The data gets stolen or gets transferred without the permission of the owner. It is known as data exfiltration.
  • The data gets leaked due to the negligence of employees or someone else with access. It can happen due to poor data loss prevention strategies or the absence of secure infrastructure. 
  • Data gets leaked by someone within an organization. It could be due to a professional or personal rivalry or, in most cases, for self-gain. 

These reasons can compromise crucial data, affecting your organization in many ways. From losing customers to getting your strategies exposed, your important data and files in the wrong hands can cause serious damage to your business and its reputation. 

Types of DLP solutions

There are three types of DLP solutions, each designed specifically to keep data secure in different aspects and on different platforms. Here are those DLP solutions. 

Network DLP: It protects data spread across the network of an organization, which includes data in motion, data at rest, and data in use. It is delivered on hardware or software platforms. 

Endpoint DLP: This prevents data loss caused by removable devices like hard drives, pen drives, mobile phones, etc. It monitors all endpoints, keeping your data secure and protected. 

Storage DLP: This gives you centralized access to different shared and stored data by your employees or people within your organization’s network. It helps you by preventing data leaks and identifying sensitive data points.

How does a DLP system work?

It is a combination of strategies, tools, and cyber security methods essential to keeping the data secure. It uses different cyber security features like protection tools, firewalls, monitoring services, and artificial intelligence to amp up the security of a platform or cloud system.  

Conclusion

There are many reasons to have a DLP system to secure data. If your organization often deals with sensitive information or worries about losing your leads to competitors, then a DLP system is the right investment. From protecting data to easy accessibility, a DLP does a lot more for you and your organization on an everyday basis.