Data Loss Prevention
What is Data Loss Prevention?
Data Loss Prevention (DLP) refers to tools and practices designed to prevent unauthorized access, sharing, or leakage of sensitive data, especially Protected Health Information (PHI), in the context of healthcare. DLP technologies help enforce HIPAA compliance by monitoring, detecting, and blocking potentially risky data transmissions.
Why DLP Matters in HIPAA Compliance
Under the HIPAA Security Rule, covered entities and business associates are required to implement technical safeguards that ensure the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of ePHI. DLP is a cornerstone of these safeguards. Whether it’s stopping an employee from emailing PHI through a non-secure platform or detecting sensitive data in a cloud upload, DLP is essential to breach prevention.
Here are some examples of DLP:
- Use encryption in transit and at rest for all digital communications containing PHI.
- Multi-factor Authentication (MFA) for accounts that access PHI.
- Monitoring data transfers to USB drives or external storage.
- Audit logs and access monitoring to ensure only authorized people access and use protected information.
- Automatic screen locks and account logout.
- Preventing data exfiltration via browser uploads.
How Does DLP Support HIPAA Compliance Training
DLP solutions can also serve as training tools. When alerts are triggered due to risky actions, employees receive real-time feedback. This fosters a culture of accountability and reinforces HIPAA compliance training principles.
HIPAA compliant email systems often incorporate DLP features to ensure that PHI isn’t sent accidentally or without proper safeguards. This can include scanning subject lines, attachments, or message content for sensitive data before sending.
Related Terms
Two Factor Authentication
End-to-End Encryption
Privacy Policy