What is the purpose of data loss prevention (DLP) within an SEG?

The purpose of data loss prevention (DLP) within a Secure Email Gateway (SEG) is to monitor and prevent unauthorized transmission of sensitive data. DLP works by identifying, monitoring, and protecting sensitive information such as personal data, financial information, or proprietary business data. It helps organizations ensure that this type of data does not leave the organization's network or is inadvertently sent via email without appropriate safeguards.

DLP tools within an SEG inspect outbound email traffic for sensitive content, applying policies that can block, alert, or encrypt emails that contain such data. This is crucial in protecting against data breaches and ensuring compliance with regulations such as GDPR or HIPAA, which impose strict requirements on how sensitive data must be handled and transmitted.