Businesses can better protect their data from hackers and strengthen their information protection infrastructure when adopting a data loss prevention (DLP) policy. When DLP is implemented correctly, it prevents third-party users from extracting and transferring sensitive information from a business’s network. In some instances, DLP may also include the devices and software that network administrators use to track the access and sharing of data by all users.
DLP can only work if your policy prioritises the protection of sensitive information. Once you have the right DLP policy, you will enhance your security solutions and meet legal requirements, such as GDPR. In addition, the right DLP policy will lead to the creation of DLP systems that can easily detect new cyber threats.
The people working in an organisation typically have access to the organisation’s sensitive data. In some instances, these individuals may willingly or unwillingly mishandle this data. As most organisations begin to adopt remote working, this potential problem is becoming more common.
The Importance of a DLP Policy
There are many reasons why most businesses are implementing DLP policies. These reasons include:
Compliance
Your business must satisfy several government regulations to protect consumer data. As a result, your DLP policy must acknowledge the relevant regulatory requirements as part of its first steps. Remember, you should always update your DLP policy whenever new regulations take effect.
Protect intangible assets and intellectual property
It is not uncommon for a business to have proprietary assets, trade secrets, and other critical business data. Unfortunately, many unscrupulous characters are willing to lay their hands on this information by illegal means. If they succeed, a business could lose valuable research and innovation. That is why a DLP policy is very important — It can guide you to create DLP systems that can identify and shield key corporate assets from cyber attacks.
Improve data visibility
Once the appropriate DLP policy has been implemented in the business, all stakeholders will have easy access to improved data insights. This typically happens because the management will better understand the type of data within the business, where that data is stored and who has access to it.
How to develop a working DLP policy
You will need to come up with a DLP policy that follows best practices but is unique to your business. Here are the steps that you should follow.
Classify your data
No DLP policy will be effective if there aren’t clear data classification systems. The solution is to note each type of information and how it is shared within your business. Data that your clients can access will have specific transmission routes and storage units. Similarly, data that moves between your research teams will have its own data repository, and it will require stronger protection mechanisms. Consequently, you will classify the data based on its origin and destination.
Craft policies upfront
Your staff members, especially the business and IT teams, should be involved in the development of your business’s DLP policy. Your policy should also specify the role of Data Owner, who will be in charge of data management. The Data Owner will take responsibility for the security of the data as stated in the DPL.
Getting started
Once you have created the DLP policy, you will move on to the implementation stage. Constant monitoring and evaluation will dominate the implementation process. When you monitor your DLP policy’s effectiveness, you will be able to identify bottlenecks and come up with tactical solutions without changing the overall plan. However, the implementation of a properly tailored DLP policy should result in more measured responses to emerging threats and reduce the likelihood of hindering normal business operations.
The best DLP policy will first target low-hanging fruits such as password protection. The policy implementation will move on to tackle more complex items by priority based on asset value or strategic considerations. If you’re still planning to create your DLP policy, please don’t hesitate to contact us for more information.
