DLP keeps tracking not only work time and running programs but any interactions with data. Among such actions are keyboard input, correspondence, email file transfer, instant messengers and social networks, document printing, idle time, SIP telephony, web activity etc.
In order to analyze data DLP must get it.
There are two main ways to intercept data: server-based and agent-based traffic monitoring. In the first case, DLP controls network traffic on the server responsible for endpoints interactions with the outside world. In the second case, IT officer installs to all endpoints specific program modules (agents), which transfer data for analysis from each PC to DLP servers.
Agent-based interception is more common. It lets to obtain much more data from various communication channels, therefore prevents leaks better.
Each company owns valuable information, which may attracts intruders both from the outside, and from the inside. Such information may include a customer database, specific features of technological processes, drawings, etc. Even a trivial press release sending base carries a competitive edge, which you hardly want to give competitors.
If you've realized that you need a data protection solution, the question is how to choose it among the product variety. First, ask yourself a few questions:
What data transmission channels do you want DLP to control?
What tasks do you want DLP to perform i.e. incident investigation or just traffic interception?
What budget are you ready to allocate for DLP?
In order to answer correctly all three questions it would be useful to request a demo version of software. Most companies-developers give such opportunity. It will allow you to see how the particular DLP works. During the trial period you will understand chosen software pros and cons and will have probability to compare it with others.
DLP itself if properly implemented will not violate any rights. Software monitors only workflow, not private life.
It would seem the solution designed to control data leakage could not provide your company with other benefits. However, modern DLP has some advantages not obvious at first glance.
Many DLP solutions are able to track employees' working time. Each user's workflow is displayed in a form of statistical report, what allows you to evaluate employees’ involvement in the business process.
DLP is aimed not only to prevent leaks, but also provide evidence of malicious activity to court if any.
When employees realize that their activity is monitored, more responsible attitude to job arises. That leads to better team environment.
DLP technology ensures the safety of all company information. It keeps in its storage all employees' communication and grants access if necessary.
Staff workload analysis
Many DLP solutions are able to track employees' working time. Each user's workflow is displayed in a form of statistical report, what allows you to evaluate employees’ involvement in the business process.
Providing legal support
DLP is aimed not only to prevent leaks, but also provide evidence of malicious activity to court if any.
A tool for motivation
When employees realize that their activity is monitored, more responsible attitude to job arises. That leads to better team environment.
DLP as storage
DLP technology ensures the safety of all company information. It keeps in its storage all employees' communication and grants access if necessary.