Data Loss Prevention (DLP)

Technologies and processes designed to detect and prevent unauthorized transmission, use, or destruction of sensitive data. DLP systems monitor data in motion (being transmitted), data at rest (stored), and data in use (being accessed) to identify and block potential data breaches or leaks. DLP tools use content analysis, contextual analysis, pattern matching, and policy enforcement to identify sensitive data like credit card numbers, Social Security numbers, or confidential documents. When risky activities are detected—like emailing sensitive data externally or copying files to USB drives—DLP systems can block the action, encrypt data, alert administrators, or require additional authorization. From a privacy perspective, DLP helps prevent data breaches, demonstrate security measures, enforce data handling policies, and meet regulatory requirements for data protection. DLP implementations should balance security with usability and include policies for handling false positives.