Glossary · Security
Data Loss Prevention
Technology and policy controls that detect and prevent sensitive data from being sent to unauthorised destinations, including AI tools.
Browse all definitionsIn detail
Data Loss Prevention (DLP) refers to systems that monitor, detect and block the transfer of sensitive data to destinations outside approved boundaries. DLP operates at the network layer (blocking uploads to unapproved domains), the endpoint layer (preventing copy paste or file transfer of classified data), the email layer (scanning outbound messages for credit card numbers, tax file numbers or health identifiers), and increasingly the AI layer (inspecting what employees paste into AI tools). Modern DLP platforms include Microsoft Purview (for Microsoft 365 environments), Nightfall and similar cloud native options.
Sources & further reading
Check the source, not just the summary
- Microsoft Purview DLPlearn.microsoft.com
Apply the definition
Want to talk through how this applies to your business?
Start with the decision in front of you. We will help map the fit.