A DLP (Data Loss Prevention) system is designed to ensure that sensitive information does not leave the organization without authorization, whether via email, a USB device, a cloud service, or an AI tool. For businesses in Israel, this need has intensified with the entry into force of Amendment 13, which made the protection of personal data a legal requirement. An endpoint-based DLP solution identifies sensitive information in real time and enforces a uniform policy across all exit channels.
What is a DLP system and how does it work?
A DLP system, meaning Data Loss Prevention, is a solution that prevents the loss and leakage of sensitive information. The solution identifies what constitutes sensitive information within the organization, monitors information movement, and enforces rules that prevent it from reaching unauthorized parties. The key distinction is between data in transit, which moves via email, browser, or cloud, and data at rest, which is stored on workstations and servers.
The ability to identify content by context, rather than just by file type, is what enables the system to distinguish between a routine document and one containing customer details or financial data. This way, the organization can allow free work and block only what is truly sensitive.
An important preliminary step is information classification. Before sensitive information can be protected, one must know what it is and where it is located, which is why a good DLP system also includes data discovery and classification capabilities. Once the information is classified, the classification can be pushed into the DLP policy so that blocking applies precisely to the correct information.
Why do businesses in Israel need a DLP system right now?
Information security for businesses in Israel has shifted from a technological issue to a regulatory and legal one. Amendment 13 to the Privacy Protection Law requires organizations to protect the databases in their possession, and the Privacy Protection Authority has already begun imposing fines on those who fail to meet the requirements. At the same time, the shift to remote work and AI tools has expanded the number of channels through which information can leak.
The core risks that a DLP system addresses are diverse, so it is important that the solution covers all of them:
- Human error: An employee who accidentally sends a sensitive file to the wrong destination or uploads it to an unsecured service
- Deliberate expenditure: An employee who copies data before leaving or discloses it to an external party
- Regulatory exposure: Failure to comply with the requirements of Amendment 13, exposing the organization to fines and lawsuits
What is the difference between types of DLP solutions?
There are several types of DLP solutions, which differ in where the policy is enforced. Network DLP operates at the network level, cloud DLP operates in cloud services, and email DLP focuses on mail traffic. An endpoint-based DLP solution enforces the policy on the computer itself, and therefore covers all these channels together, including USB devices and AI tools, and continues to operate even when the computer is disconnected from the network.
The advantage of the endpoint approach is that it does not depend on the user's location. An employee who takes a laptop home remains protected by the exact same policy, which is critical for businesses with remote workers.
It is important to understand that the cost of a data leak incident is much higher than the cost of protecting against it. A single incident in which a customer database leaks can result in regulatory fines, a loss of customer trust, and ongoing damage to the business's reputation. A DLP system is therefore not only a technological tool but a business insurance, which significantly reduces the likelihood of such an incident and the damage it could cause.
How to choose a DLP system for a business?
Choosing a DLP system should be based on the scope of coverage, support for the organization's operating systems, and the ability to accompany the implementation. ofek dist distributes Netwrix Endpoint Protector in Israel, an endpoint-based DLP solution that supports Windows, macOS, and Linux from a single management interface and protects data even offline. The solution includes device control, sensitive content detection, forced encryption of files exported via USB, and scanning of sensitive data stored on workstations.
Beyond the product, ofek dist supports customers from end to end, starting with an initial survey and mapping, through a controlled pilot on dozens of computers, and all the way to full deployment and training, all in Hebrew and on Israeli time. Being an information security company itself allows it to bridge the gap between the product and the regulatory needs of the business.
Another criterion to consider is the ability to manage all egress channels from a single interface. A solution that splits management across multiple screens or products makes things difficult for the team and increases the chance of error. A centralized management interface, from which policies can be set for devices, email, cloud, and AI tools alike, saves time and ensures consistency in protecting all endpoints.
What does the DLP system implementation process include?
A successful implementation of a DLP system is not just about installing software, but rather a structured process that begins with understanding the organization. The first step is a survey and mapping, in which the types of sensitive data that exist are identified, who the role holders are, and what the data paths are within the organization. Based on the mapping, the initial policy is built.
Next comes the pilot phase, where agents are installed on dozens of computers, connecting the system to Active Directory and also to a central monitoring system. From the pilot, they learn how the policy affects actual work, tune it, and only then gradually expand it to the entire organization. This phased approach ensures that the protection does not disrupt day-to-day work.
Comparison of DLP solution types
Netwrix solutions are distributed in Israel by ofek dist, and Netwrix serves over 13,000 organizations in 100 countries. The table compares types of DLP solutions based on where the policy is enforced.
|
DLP type |
Where is the policy enforced |
|
Network DLP |
At the enterprise network level only |
|
Cloud DLP |
in the cloud services |
|
Email DLP |
In mail traffic |
|
Endpoint DLP |
On the computer itself, covering all channels and also offline |
Summary
A DLP data loss prevention system is now an essential component of information security for businesses in Israel, due to both operational risk and the regulatory requirement of Amendment 13. An endpoint-based solution provides the broadest coverage because it protects all exit channels from a single point. For a demonstration and customization to your business's needs, contact the ofek dist team today.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between endpoint-based DLP and network DLP?
Network DLP enforces policies at the network level only, whereas endpoint-based DLP enforces them on the computer itself. Therefore, the endpoint solution covers both USB devices and work outside the corporate network.
Does a DLP system impact employee productivity?
A well-configured DLP system blocks only the sensitive information defined as prohibited for egress, while allowing normal operations for everything else. You can start in audit-only mode and gradually tighten the policy.
Does the solution also support macOS and Linux?
Yes, Netwrix Endpoint Protector supports Windows, macOS, and Linux from a single management interface. This way, an organization with a mixed environment gets unified policies across all computers.
How long does it take to implement a DLP system?
Implementation typically begins with a pilot on dozens of computers and gradually expands. ofek dist accompanies the process step by step, from the initial survey to full deployment.
Does a DLP system also help with compliance with Amendment 13?
Yes, information leakage prevention and encryption are among the controls required by the information security regulations and Amendment 13. A DLP system also provides the documentation that makes it possible to prove compliance with the requirements before the Privacy Protection Authority.