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Data Loss Prevention (DLP)

Controls that detect and prevent sensitive data from leaving an organization through unauthorized channels.

Data ProtectionAlso called: "data leak prevention"

DLP technologies monitor emails, endpoints, cloud services, and networks for policy violations involving sensitive data.

Common capabilities

  • Content inspection using pattern matching, dictionaries, and exact data matching.
  • Contextual controls that evaluate user role, device health, and location.
  • Automated responses such as encryption, redaction, or user coaching.

Program tips

  • Start with high-risk data types like customer records and source code.
  • Align DLP policies to regulatory obligations (HIPAA, GDPR, CCPA).
  • Partner with business units to tune policies and reduce friction.