Data loss prevention is all about protecting sensitive information from loss, corruption, misuse, or unauthorized access. Imagine it as a digital guardian that ensures our data stays safe and sound. Here’s why DLP matters:

1. Improve Data Visibility: With the rise of cloud computing and big data, tracking confidential information has become quite a task. DLP solutions give us better visibility into how data is managed, stored, accessed, and used across the organization.
2. Secure Data in Remote/BYOD Environments: DLP software can enforce security policies for remote and Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) workers. It ensures consistency in security practices across teams, departments, and locations.
3. Protect Intellectual Property: The University relies on trade secrets, proprietary processes, and competitive data to innovate and stay ahead. A solid DLP strategy shields these critical assets.
4. Promote Brand Reputation: Data breaches not only cost money but also erode trust.
5. Prove Regulatory Compliance: Laws like GLBA and HIPAA require organizations to protect personal data. Non-compliance can lead to hefty fines and legal trouble. DLP solutions simplify the compliance process.
6. Prevent Cyberattacks and Data Breaches: The global average cost of a data breach in 2023 is a whopping $4.45 million! DLP tools can alert us about issues and prevent accidental or intentional data sharing.

What Can You Do to Enhance Data Security?

Follow these practical steps:

• Be Password Savvy: Use strong, unique passwords for your accounts, and avoid reusing passwords across different services. Consider using a password manager to keep track of them securely.
• Think Before You Click: Phishing emails are sneaky. If an email seems suspicious, don’t click on any links or download attachments. Verify the validity of a suspicious email with OIT if you are not sure.
• Handle USB Drives with Care: USB drives can carry malware. Don’t plug in random USB sticks. If you find one lying around, report it to OIT.
• Encrypt Sensitive Emails: If you need to send potentially sensitive data through email, consider encrypting it. Encryption scrambles the data, making it unreadable without the right key.

To encrypt an email in Outlook for Windows

• Create an email.
• Select Options at the top of the Outlook window.
• Click the Lock icon in the toolbar and select an option.

To encrypt an email in Outlook for Mac

• Begin an email.
• Select Draft from the Mac toolbar (top of the screen).
• Go to Encrypt and select an option.

• Stay Updated: Keep your operating system, applications, and antivirus software up to date. Security patches fix vulnerabilities that attackers might exploit.
• Report Incidents Promptly: If you suspect a security incident or data leak, report it to OIT immediately. Time is of the essence!

Remember, you are the first line of defense. By following these simple practices, you contribute significantly to our University’s data security.