What is Data Loss Prevention?

Data Loss Prevention (DLP) is a set of procedures and techniques designed to detect and prevent sensitive data from leaving an organization's control. DLP solutions typically involve identifying sensitive data, monitoring data in use (endpoint actions), data in motion (network traffic), and data at rest (storage), and then applying policies to prevent unauthorized disclosure, transmission, or loss of that data. Common uses include protecting personally identifiable information (PII), financial data, intellectual property, and ensuring compliance with regulations such as GDPR, HIPAA, and PCI DSS.