Data loss prevention is a long-established category of security solutions, representing systems of integrated information security technologies that detect and prevent unauthorized use, transmission and storage of confidential, sensitive data.

DLP solutions do this by applying a combination of data flow controls and content analysis methods. Such technologies enforce business-acceptable data use and handling policies across the organization that prevent exfiltration of sensitive data to unauthorized recipients (both internal and external).

While data protection is primarily associated with backup and disaster recovery, there are other essential technologies such as DLP, notarization, and encryption that secure sensitive information against a wider variety of threats, including data leakage.

DLP is the only technology capable of providing visibility and control into the sensitive data flowing and stored across an organization to prevent its leakage to unauthorized entities.

1. External cyberthreats

As defined by the MITRE ATT&CK framework, data exfiltration is among the last tactics that malicious adversaries carry out during an attack. The motive of actors in more than 80% of data breaches is financial gain, according to the Verizon 2022 Data Breach Investigation Report.

That’s why sensitive data is the primary target in a majority of attacks. Once malicious adversaries establish access to the corporate environment, they can try to exfiltrate data via numerous channels.

2. Internal risks

While anti-malware and other endpoint security technologies are able to detect and stop external attacks, other risks for organizations’ data — insider-related ones — are gaining momentum. One common example is end users unknowingly releasing data to unauthorized parties (e.g., by forwarding an email). This can occur due to accidental employee mistakes, IT misconfigurations, or through malicious insiders — all of which can pose a severe threat to organizations — leading to the costliest data breaches

According to the Ponemon Institute 2021 Cost of Data Breach report, the global average total cost of a data breach is $4.24 million, which is 10% higher than it was in 2020. As we see the cost of data breaches rising, the actual average time to identify and contain a breach is 287 days — which speaks to the huge risks your clients face before the breach is contained. These risks can lead to financial, reputational, and compliance costs.

What are the consequences?

• Financial and reputational damages, loss of business
• Large fines and expensive litigations
• Damage to national security

Data leakage can be a significant risk for businesses, as it can lead to the loss of sensitive information, reputational damage, and financial losses. Here are some ways to protect your business from data leakage:

• Use encryption
• Limit access to sensitive data
• Train employees
• Monitor network activity
• Implement a data loss prevention (DLP) solution.
• Implement a data retention policy

Here are some of the other services we provide here At HostingB2B: