Security architects are faced with many evolving data
security challenges. The biggest challenge is the lack of visibility into where
the data is hidden in the enterprise. Common data loss prevention (DLP)
solutions are only effective when they find all the hidden data. This article
discusses how to find the sensitive data as the first step in data security.
Step 1: Accurately locate all your sensitive data and
intellectual property
To protect the data, you must have the data in hand. This isn’t as easy as it sounds, however. The data is tucked away into structured and unstructured storage. It is scattered across many different types of programs and hardware. It can even be found in an old server running under someone’s desk.
In this first step, 100% of the sensitive data can be found. With the right software solution, real-time visibility can be achieved with a comprehensive scan of the entire enterprise footprint.
Step 2: Attack sensitive data sprawl and stop data leaks
at the source
Once the data is found, its propagation can be greatly diminished. Copies of documents can be identified and prevented. These sensitive files can be controlled by operationalizing data classification policies and controls.
Security architects and leaders can automate the discovery, classification, and protection of data at rest and in use. This can be done without over-dependence on users and without unnecessary disruption of business. This frees your data to be used as intended without exposure.
Step 3: Comply with State and International Regulations
The first two steps enable security architects and leaders
to comply with complex regulations. To name a few: HIPAA, PCI-DSS, FISMA,
FERPA, GLBA, ITAR, HITECH, SOX, CCPA, or GDPR. By finding and controlling the
data, the regulatory requirements can more easily be met. Enforcement can be
automated. Compliance controls around both storage and handling of this data
can be more easily maintained as well.
Step 4: Maintain Visibility across the Enterprise with an
Integrated Solution
A data identification and security solution should have an open
API for enterprise-wide effectiveness. This allows a security architect to maintain
full visibility into where all the data is. This enables immediate risk
remediation.
Remediation is started when data is discovered and classified. Remediation is completed when the security team executes critical workflows:
- Minimize and redact data
- Apply access governance
- Encrypt
- Apply data retention policies
- Generate compliance artifacts
- Ensure data exposures don’t exfiltrate
- Enable active security awareness
- Enable multiple compliance needs
- Active a “low friction” compliance environment
These security workflows are just a few ways to utilize highly accurate data discovery. From here, visibility into the enterprise can be achieved, which leads to the most effective security measures.
See how Spirion provides visibility
as the first step in your data security process. Schedule a customized risk
assessment with one of our data security experts to see our data protection
solutions in action.
