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DLP Systems: Definition, Types, Key Features, Tips

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DLP Systems: Definition, Types, Key Features, Tips

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Every company possesses critical corporate data, such as new developments, customer information, strategic plans, and other valuable information. Unauthorized access to or theft of this data can result in significant financial losses and harm to the company's reputation. In cases of personal data leaks, companies can face lawsuits and substantial fines.

The loss of corporate information is a major concern in the field of information security. While many companies focus on external threats like spam, phishing attacks, and viruses, internal threats can often be more damaging. Any employee, intentionally or unintentionally, can pose a potential risk to information security. One of the most effective ways to prevent data leaks is to establish a transparent mechanism for user interactions with data.

What is DLP?

A DLP system is a collective term for specialized software developed to prevent the leakage of confidential information within a corporate network. The acronym stands for Data Loss Prevention, Data Leak Prevention, or Data Leakage Protection.

DLP Tasks:

  • Safeguard corporate information from theft and unauthorized access
  • Detect, control, and prevent data leaks, both online (via email, cloud storage, social networks) and offline (via removable media, printers, and other means)
  • Block the transmission of confidential information through various channels
  • Monitor employee actions to identify potential security weaknesses before incidents occur
  • Provide the flexibility to classify data within the company and control their flow, ensuring search capabilities in file storage, on employees' work on computers, in databases, and more

How does DLP work?

The operation of this technology relies on a set of rules that define what data is considered confidential and how it can be used. These rules can be highly complex and pertain to various aspects of the company's operations.

The system analyzes all forms of information: outgoing, incoming, and circulating within the company. The DLP system monitors not only computer activity and software but also any interaction with information, including data input, file transfers, document printing, website activity, and more.

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Algorithms are employed to determine the nature of the information, and if critical data is being transmitted inappropriately, the system either prohibits the transfer or alerts the responsible party.

Technologies for real-time interception of confidential information include:

  • Identifier control (IDID, ID identification), which detects financial data, personal information, template documents, and specific keywords
  • Digital fingerprints (DiFi), which compare data with reference documents, thereby detecting copied documents
  • Graphic templates that recognize confidential information in graphical formats, including passport images and organizational stamps
  • Behavioral analysis through machine learning, which detects threats based on anomalies in user behavior
  • File crawlers that inspect corporate network nodes and control resources to detect confidential information

Once intercepted, data undergoes full-text, content, and contextual analysis to adhere to information processing policies. If suspicious activities are detected, the software takes measures to block or issue alerts. The resulting information can be used for investigations by information, internal, and economic security services.

Advantages of DLP Systems:

  • Classification and monitoring of confidential data
  • Detection and prevention of suspicious activities
  • Automated data classification
  • Compliance with legislation
  • Control over data access and their usage on the network, within applications, and on devices
  • Enhanced transparency and control of confidential data, facilitating vulnerability identification and elimination

DLP Functionalities:

  • Protection of confidential data
  • Ensuring economic security
  • Combating corruption
  • Internal control
  • Ensuring internal security by detecting connections indicative of espionage and fraud

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Types of DLP Systems

DLP systems come in two primary methods of information control:

1
Active DLPProhibits the transfer of critically important data. It can prevent data leakage in 99% of cases but demands significant resources and may lead to a temporary business halt during incident clarification.
2
Passive DLPScans data flow without blocking their transfer. It operates in the background without requiring additional configurations but may be less effective in the case of targeted attacks.

THE CHOICE BETWEEN ACTIVE AND PASSIVE DLP DEPENDS ON THE ASSESSMENT OF POTENTIAL THREATS AND THE SPECIFIC NEEDS OF THE COMPANY

Hybrid information leak prevention systems, combining the capabilities of both types, are often utilized. Active programs can occasionally disrupt work processes due to incorrect settings or reactions to events. In contrast, passive programs, in test mode, allow verification of monitoring accuracy in such situations, ensuring data transmission channel surveillance while maintaining company operations.

Depending on architectural implementation, DLP solutions are divided into:

1
Host-based systemsThese install agent programs on employee PCs to control security and prevent threats. Agent software prevents the execution of programs from removable devices, records user actions, and transmits data to a centralized database for the security service. Such systems provide complete control of data transmission channels and personnel actions, including the ability to record communications and manage web cameras. The drawback of host-based products is that they can only control directly connected devices.
2
Network productsThese operate through centralized servers, where traffic is examined for compliance with security criteria. Network DLPs secure channels and restrict access to a dedicated gateway, providing administrative rights to a limited number of employees. The scope of application for network products is defined by protocols and channels such as HTTP(S), XMPP, MSN, POP3, among others. These systems are easily configurable and implementable.

Host and network systems oversee different channels, prompting developers to combine the capabilities of both programs. Presently, most tools for countering data leaks are universal software solutions.

DLP Deployment Considerations

To successfully deploy this technology with minimal downtime and avoid costly errors, adhere to the following guidelines:

  1. Document the installation process comprehensively, outlining all mandatory steps for implementing the DLP system within the enterprise. Create informational materials for training new employees and conducting compliance checks.
  2. Define security requirements to safeguard the company's confidential information and the personal data of employees and customers.
  3. Allocate roles and responsibilities, specifying those who require consultation and those who must be informed about actions related to the DLP system's operation within the organization. It's also crucial to segregate roles between policy development and implementation to prevent improper data usage.

How to Choose the Right DLP Solution?

Selecting an information security system demands a rigorous approach, as it must align with the company's requirements, legal mandates, and regulatory standards. When making a choice, assess administrative features, including component deployment, role distribution, and the user-friendliness of the control console.

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Pay attention to:

  • The number of channels the program can simultaneously monitor
  • Efficiency and speed of the software
  • Analytical capabilities
  • Reliability of the manufacturer
  • Availability and responsiveness of technical support
  • Cost of the software and its maintenance

The following factors can help assess the suitability of a specific DLP solution for your business:

  • Ease of installing the security system
  • Informativeness of reports
  • Availability of an interception database
  • Tools for conducting investigations

Before making a purchase, it is essential to conduct tests on several DLP systems in accordance with your technical specifications and budget. Prior to conducting these tests, it is advisable to create a testing methodology. This approach allows you to identify all nuances and thoroughly evaluate the software's functionality over a period of approximately 2-4 weeks.


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Eugene
Eugene
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