Data loss prevention (DLP) refers to a range of tools that help protect sensitive data, including credit card numbers and personal information. DLP aims to stop the loss of valuable data, either through human error or interception, before it's too late.
Data loss prevention is the process of identifying, monitoring, and protecting sensitive data from threats.
DLP tools are a subset of cybersecurity technologies that help to protect one of your organisation's most sensitive assets: information.
While there are many different types of data security technologies, DLP is unique because it focuses on protecting information based on its sensitivity.
This can include anything from customer contact details held in an on-premise server to ID verification documents sent by email.
Why Is DLP Important?
Data Loss Can Be Costly
The average cost of a data breach is USD $4.45 million (GBP £3.53 million), according to IBM's Cost of a Data Breach Report.
Data Loss Can Be Embarrassing
How would you feel if your company lost all its customer records?
Or if it was fined because an employee accidentally sent a file containing client information over email? Data breaches can be a source of anxiety and stress, impacting employee wellbeing.
Data Loss Can Be Damaging
If someone steals customer details or your company's intellectual property, they likely intend to use it for their benefit.
That could lead to legal trouble and losses in revenue if customers are negatively affected and take their business elsewhere.
What Are Some Good Ways to Prevent Data Loss?
Develop a Robust Security Policy
Data security policies govern the use of company devices and networks to help prevent data breaches.
These policies can include remote wipe protocols, regular backups, and sign-in/out policies for particularly sensitive devices.
Encrypt Sensitive Data (at Rest and in Transit)
Encryption ensures your sensitive data can't be accessed by anyone who picks up a device or intercepts communications.
It disguises data with secret keys so only authorised individuals, apps, or networks can access it.
Use Enterprise Cybersecurity Software
Consumer cybersecurity software may not be enough when you're managing hundreds or thousands of data points.
Enterprise cybersecurity software ensures your security stays aligned with regulatory guidance.
Make Sure Devices Are Regularly Updated
Keeping software and devices up to date is vital to maintain good data security hygiene.
Updating operating systems and apps helps protect against the latest cyber attacks.
Utilise Identity Authentication When Necessary
When sharing sensitive documents, it's crucial to verify the identity of the recipient.
Use communications software that enables authentication to prevent data from reaching the wrong person.
What Is Email Data Loss Prevention?
Email data loss prevention (DLP) refers to tools that help prevent the accidental or intentional release of confidential data via email.
DLP can protect both business and personal accounts on all types of devices.
It works by recognising sensitive information (like bank details or ID numbers) in message contents.
Some solutions may block an email or prompt additional sender checks before sending.
Mailock, our secure email platform, can encrypt emails automatically or guide the sender through confirmation checks.
Prevent Email Data Loss
Use Secure Email
If you use email to transfer sensitive information, make sure you have a secure solution like Mailock.
Use Authentication
Protect your email with authentication so that only the intended recipient can access it.
Don't Email!
If you’re not using secure email, consider using video calls for sensitive matters and look out for signs of deep faking.
It Doesn't Have to Be Hard
Preventing email data loss doesn’t have to be hard.
Choose a solution that matches your organisation’s needs and the resources available - or avoid email altogether when security can’t be guaranteed.
Sabrina McClune is a Women in Tech Excellence 2022 finalist who writes extensively on cybersecurity, digital transformation, data protection, and digital identity. With a postgraduate degree in Digital Marketing (Distinction) and a First-Class Honours degree in English, she combines a strong academic foundation with professional expertise. At Beyond Encryption, Sabrina develops research-led content that supports financial and technology sectors navigating the complexities of the digital age.