Have you sprung a leak!
Continuing my series of articles regarding Internal Threat Management referenced in ‘The Enemy Within’ post, this next piece looks at the security technique know as Data Leakage Prevention (also often known as Data Loss Prevention) or DLP for short.
Data leakage prevention (DLP) is an essential aspect of data security that aims to prevent the unauthorised or accidental transmission of sensitive or confidential data outside an organisation. It involves implementing a set of policies, procedures, and technologies to safeguard critical data assets from theft, loss, or misuse.
Data leakage can occur in various forms, including:-
Human error
This is one of the most common causes of data leakage. It occurs when employees or authorised personnel mistakenly share or expose sensitive information to unauthorised parties. Human errors can be caused by a lack of awareness, inadequate training, or negligence.
Malware and hacking
Cybercriminals can use malware or other hacking techniques to infiltrate an organisation’s network and steal sensitive data. Malware can be spread through phishing emails, social engineering, or other means.
Third-party data breaches
Data breaches can also occur when an organisation’s third-party vendor or partner is compromised, exposing sensitive data to unauthorised parties.
Preventing data leakage requires a multi-layered approach that involves the following:-
Develop data classification policies
Organisations should classify their data based on its sensitivity and value. This helps to determine the appropriate security controls required to protect the data.
Educate employees
Organisations should provide regular training to employees on data security best practices, including how to identify and prevent data leakage. Employees should be made aware of the consequences of data leakage and the importance of safeguarding sensitive data.
Implement access controls
Access controls, such as password policies, two-factor authentication, and role-based access control, can help prevent unauthorised access to sensitive data.
Use encryption
Encryption is an effective way of securing data in transit and at rest. It involves converting sensitive data into a code that can only be deciphered with a key.
Monitor and audit data access
Organisations should monitor and audit all data access to identify and prevent unauthorised access to sensitive data.
Implement data loss prevention technologies
DLP technologies can help identify and prevent data leakage by monitoring data flows and applying policies to prevent unauthorised data transfers.
Data Loss Prevention – Useful Video
Microsoft’s DLP via Purview is one such system which applies rigorous Data Loss Prevention controls to Users and Systems. The below video explains nicely!
In conclusion, data leakage prevention is crucial for protecting an organisation’s sensitive data assets from theft, loss, or misuse. By implementing a multi-layered approach that includes data classification policies, employee education, access controls, encryption, data monitoring, and DLP technologies, organisations can significantly reduce the risk of data leakage and protect their reputation, customers, and financial stability.
Thanks
Richard
