How to configure DLP policy in M365

Introduction

This tutorial provides a step-by-step guide on how to configure Data Loss Prevention (DLP) policies in Microsoft 365. DLP policies are essential for protecting sensitive information and ensuring compliance with regulations. By following these instructions, you can effectively set up DLP policies to safeguard your organization's data.

Step 1: Access Microsoft 365 Compliance Center

• Go to the Microsoft 365 Compliance Center by navigating to the URL: compliance.microsoft.com.
• Sign in with your admin account credentials.

Step 2: Navigate to Data Loss Prevention

• Once in the Compliance Center, look for the Solutions section on the left sidebar.
• Click on Data loss prevention to access the DLP policy settings.

Step 3: Create a New DLP Policy

• Click on the + Create policy button.
• You will see various templates for DLP policies. Choose a template that fits your needs, such as:
  • Financial data
  • Health data
  • Personal data
• Click Next after selecting your template.

Step 4: Configure Policy Settings

• Give your DLP policy a meaningful name and description to identify its purpose.
• Choose the locations where the policy will apply:
  • SharePoint sites
  • OneDrive accounts
  • Exchange email
• Click Next after setting the locations.

Step 5: Define DLP Rules

• Specify the conditions that trigger the DLP policy. This may include:
  • Content types (e.g., credit card numbers, social security numbers)
  • Specific keywords or phrases
• Set the actions to take when the conditions are met, such as:
  • Restricting access to content
  • Sending alerts to administrators
• Click Next after defining your rules.

Step 6: Customize User Notifications

• Decide if you want to notify users when they violate the DLP policy.
• Customize the notification message to inform users about the policy and the actions being taken.
• Click Next to proceed.

Step 7: Review and Finish

• Review all settings you have configured in the previous steps to ensure everything is correct.
• Click Create to finalize and activate your DLP policy.

Conclusion

You have successfully configured a DLP policy in Microsoft 365. This policy will help protect sensitive information and maintain compliance. As a next step, monitor the policy's effectiveness and make adjustments as needed based on feedback and incidents. Regularly review your DLP policies to keep them aligned with your organization's evolving data protection needs.