What does the term “data loss prevention” (DLP) refer to?

Data loss prevention (DLP) refers specifically to the strategies and technologies put in place to monitor and protect sensitive data from being lost, misused, or accessed without authorization. This encompasses a range of methods and solutions, including the enforcement of policies that dictate how data can be handled, monitored, and transferred, to prevent inadvertent leakage or intentional theft of critical information.

The focus of DLP is primarily on safeguarding data at all stages—from creation and storage to transmission. Implementing effective DLP solutions involves identifying sensitive data types, enforcing security protocols, and employing technologies that can detect and respond to potential data breaches. This is a key component of a comprehensive security strategy aimed at protecting organizational assets and maintaining compliance with regulations related to data privacy and protection.