Top 10 Data Loss Prevention (DLP) Tools for 2025

DLP tools protect sensitive information from unauthorized access, sharing, or accidental loss. With the rise in data breaches and cyber threats, companies must safeguard their intellectual property, personally identifiable information (PII), and financial data. 

Are Data Loss Prevention Tools Required?

While not every business is legally required to implement DLP tools, the growing prevalence of data breaches makes them a wise investment. In many cases, having a robust DLP strategy can be viewed as a best practice for risk management rather than a strict requirement. 

Top Data Loss Prevention Tools List for 2025

Here’s an in-depth look at the top 10 DLP tools that excel in protection and usability.

1. Microsoft Purview

Microsoft Purview is a comprehensive DLP solution that integrates smoothly within the Microsoft 365 ecosystem, offering data protection across applications such as SharePoint, Exchange, and Teams. As a cloud data loss prevention tool, it’s particularly beneficial for businesses entrenched in Microsoft’s environment, enabling precise data monitoring and advanced classification capabilities. However, due to its focus on Microsoft tools, integration with non-Microsoft applications may be limited, which could be a drawback for multi-platform environments. Purview offers an efficient and cohesive DLP option for companies deeply embedded in Microsoft’s cloud services.

2. Google Cloud DLP

Tailored for the Google Cloud Platform (GCP), Google Cloud DLP stands out with robust data classification and de-identification features. This tool is designed to secure data in motion across Google’s ecosystem, leveraging automated classification and powerful encryption controls. Organizations using GCP will find it invaluable for protecting sensitive data seamlessly within their workflows. However, for those outside the Google ecosystem, the tool may lack the versatility they need. For GCP users, though, Google Cloud DLP is a natural fit that provides a high level of security and compliance control.

3. Netskope DLP

Netskope offers a cloud-native approach to DLP, providing extensive protection for SaaS, IaaS, and web traffic, making it an ideal choice for companies focused on cloud security. Known for its real-time monitoring and granular policy control, Netskope is adept at handling complex cloud environments, and protecting sensitive data across applications and platforms. Although the initial setup can be complex, once deployed, Netskope offers unmatched security in dynamic cloud settings. Organizations with multifaceted cloud setups will appreciate the depth of coverage Netskope offers.

4. Symantec DLP (Broadcom)

A pioneer in data security, Symantec DLP remains a top choice for large enterprises with extensive data protection needs. This tool offers comprehensive network and endpoint protection, with highly customizable policies that allow it to adapt to various data environments. Symantec’s DLP provides robust reporting and incident management tools, but it requires significant resources and is best suited for large organizations willing to invest in a powerful, enterprise-level solution. For large-scale operations, Symantec delivers a thorough, customizable DLP solution.

5. Forcepoint DLP

Forcepoint DLP brings behavioral analytics to data loss prevention, offering dynamic risk-based policies that adjust according to user activity and data context. This approach makes it well-suited for organizations seeking to monitor and respond to behavioral anomalies. Forcepoint excels in user-behavior monitoring, allowing administrators to create adaptive policies based on real-time data and activity. However, new users may face a learning curve when configuring the tool. For businesses prioritizing behavior-based threat detection, Forcepoint provides a proactive approach to data protection.

6. Digital Guardian

Digital Guardian is a versatile tool that supports both cloud and on-premises deployments, with a strong focus on endpoint and network protection. Known for its robust data protection capabilities and comprehensive reporting, Digital Guardian is an excellent option for hybrid organizations. The tool’s endpoint security is particularly strong, although it can be complex for smaller teams to manage. Digital Guardian offers extensive endpoint and network protection with flexible deployment options for organizations looking to secure sensitive data across a hybrid environment.

7. Palo Alto Networks DLP

Palo Alto Networks DLP is integrated with Palo Alto’s broader suite of cybersecurity tools, providing streamlined protection for network and endpoint data. With AI-powered data classification and efficient data flow control, it’s ideal for companies already utilizing Palo Alto’s security infrastructure. While the solution is costlier and optimized for existing Palo Alto users, the seamless integration capabilities make it a great choice for enterprises already invested in Palo Alto products. This tool is perfect for organizations that need DLP in tandem with their existing Palo Alto cybersecurity setup.

8. Nightfall AI

Nightfall AI uses machine learning to detect sensitive data across various SaaS platforms, such as Slack, GitHub, and Google Drive, making it highly effective for companies relying on multiple SaaS applications. Nightfall’s precision in detection and low false positive rate make it a valuable asset for organizations needing DLP for cloud-based services. While it lacks network-level DLP capabilities, its accuracy in SaaS environments is a key advantage. Mid-sized organizations with SaaS-heavy environments will find Nightfall’s focus on cloud application DLP to be a standout feature.

9. Code42 Incydr

Code42 Incydr is optimized for detecting and responding to insider threats within endpoint environments. It’s designed to provide quick and efficient incident response capabilities, making it a strong choice for organizations concerned with data loss from internal risks. Although it lacks extensive cloud DLP functionalities, Incydr’s focus on endpoint protection and insider threat detection fills a unique niche in the DLP market. Organizations prioritizing protection against insider threats will find Code42 Incydr to be a strategic fit.

10. Endpoint Protector by CoSoSys

Endpoint Protector by CoSoSys is a cross-platform DLP tool that offers extensive device control, enabling organizations to enforce data protection policies across diverse environments. Its user-friendly interface and customizable policies suit businesses with varied device ecosystems, although the initial setup can be time-consuming. Endpoint Protector is especially well-suited for organizations managing a mix of operating systems and devices, delivering a versatile solution that aligns with complex DLP needs.

Data Loss Prevention Tools Comparison

Open Source Data Loss Prevention Tools

For organizations aiming to implement Data Loss Prevention (DLP) without committing to high-priced enterprise solutions, open-source DLP tools offer a compelling alternative. While not as feature-rich or integrated as paid solutions, open-source DLP tools provide basic to intermediate capabilities for protecting sensitive data. Here are some popular open-source options:

1. OpenDLP

OpenDLP is a specialized open-source DLP tool that detects sensitive data across systems. It can scan databases and endpoints, mainly Windows and Linux environments, to identify personally identifiable information (PII) and other sensitive data. OpenDLP enables organizations to detect where sensitive information is stored and prevent unauthorized access or exfiltration by tracking specific data types, such as credit card information and social security numbers.

2. MyDLP

MyDLP offers comprehensive DLP capabilities for small and medium-sized organizations, addressing data protection needs across endpoints, USB devices, email, and network channels. MyDLP’s functionality includes monitoring and blocking sensitive data transfers. 

3. Sensitive Data Discovery

Sensitive Data Discovery is a lightweight open-source tool designed to locate PII and other sensitive information on endpoints and servers. While not as feature-rich as full DLP solutions, it helps organizations map and manage sensitive data, which is a key step in preventing data loss. 

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Clarifying Terms Related to Data Loss Prevention

When discussing Data Loss Prevention (DLP), understanding similar terms is crucial, as they often get mixed up but have specific meanings. Let’s clarify these terms to provide context around DLP’s role:

• Data Spillage: Data spillage refers to the accidental exposure or release of sensitive information into an unsecured environment. Unlike a data breach, which typically involves malicious intent, data spillage is often due to human error—such as sending a sensitive email to the wrong recipient or inadvertently making confidential files accessible. These incidents can result in compliance risks if they involve sensitive data.
• Data Leak: A data leak happens when sensitive information is unintentionally exposed, often due to insufficient security or inadvertent employee actions. Data leaks can occur when data is uploaded to unsecured platforms or accessed outside of secure environments. Though unintended, leaks can seriously damage an organization’s reputation, especially when personal or sensitive information is involved.
• Data Breach: Data breaches are more severe and typically involve unauthorized access to sensitive data, often with malicious intent. Breaches result from hacking, malware, or insider threats, leading to data theft or loss. They can have significant financial and reputational impacts on organizations and are often the catalyst for implementing DLP solutions.
• Data Exfiltration: This term refers specifically to the unauthorized extraction or transfer of data from a system, often during a data breach. Data exfiltration is a major concern as it indicates not only that a system was compromised but also that sensitive information was actively removed.
• Data Governance: While not a specific type of data loss event, data governance involves managing data integrity, security, availability, and usability within an organization. Effective data governance supports DLP by ensuring that data is properly classified, monitored, and protected across all environments.

Understanding these distinctions can help organizations navigate the complex data security landscape, making it easier to implement strategies and tools, including DLP solutions, to guard against various forms of data exposure.

Does ISO 27001:2022 Require a DLP Solution?

ISO 27001:2022 places a greater emphasis on data loss prevention (DLP) through a new control added in Annex A (8.12), explicitly recommending that organizations implement “data leakage prevention measures.” This update addresses growing concerns about data security across modern digital environments, including cloud storage, external devices, and various endpoints. The aim is to provide better protection against unauthorized data access or exfiltration—whether through email, USB drives, SaaS applications, or untrusted cloud storage, which are common vulnerabilities in today’s complex data landscape.

Although ISO 27001:2022  doesn’t mandate a specific DLP solution, leveraging one can streamline compliance with these updated requirements by offering preventive and detective measures. 

A centralized system such as Centraleyes can further simplify managing these requirements by tracking DLP compliance efforts, identifying trends, and supporting audit management in alignment with ISO 27001:2022. With its unmatched risk visibility, Centraleyes enables organizations to continuously monitor DLP policy effectiveness, visualize areas of concern, and proactively adjust strategies to better align with ISO requirements—all essential for an effective and ISO-compliant Information Security Management System (ISMS).

The post Top 10 Data Loss Prevention (DLP) Tools for 2025 appeared first on Centraleyes.

*** This is a Security Bloggers Network syndicated blog from Centraleyes authored by Rebecca Kappel. Read the original post at: https://www.centraleyes.com/top-data-loss-prevention-tools/