Introduction
In the realm of data governance and security, ensuring accurate classification and protection of sensitive information is paramount. Microsoft Purview offers a variety of tools to help organisations manage their data. One such powerful tool is the Exact Data Match (EDM) classifier. In part 1, we'll delve into what EDM is, how it compares to custom sensitive information types, and its benefits in reducing false positives. Additionally, we'll explore practical applications of EDM, especially in managing client data, patient records, and employee records, and how it can be utilised within auto-labelling and data loss prevention (DLP) policies.
Table of contents
What is Exact Data Match (EDM) Classifier?
The Exact Data Match (EDM) classifier in Microsoft Purview is a data classification tool that identifies sensitive information based on exact values stored in a structured database. Unlike traditional pattern-based detection methods, which look for predefined patterns or regular expressions, EDM classifiers use a data source to match specific values exactly.
This approach involves uploading a data source, such as a CSV file containing sensitive information, to the Microsoft 365 compliance centre. The EDM classifier then uses this data to accurately identify and classify sensitive information across your organisation's data landscape.
2. How EDM Classifiers are Better Than Custom Sensitive Information Types
1. Reduction in False Positives:
Custom Sensitive Information Types: These rely on patterns, keywords, or regular expressions to identify sensitive data. While flexible, they can lead to higher false positives.
EDM Classifiers: By matching exact values from a data source, EDM classifiers significantly reduce false positives, ensuring more accurate classification.
2. Precision in Matching:
Pattern-based methods often misidentify benign data as sensitive due to similarities in structure (e.g., a random string of numbers might be misclassified as a credit card number).
EDM classifiers only match data that exactly corresponds to the values in the uploaded data source, drastically reducing the likelihood of incorrect classifications.
3. Practical Applications of EDM Classifiers
Client Data Management EDM classifiers can precisely identify and classify client information, such as account numbers or specific identifiers, ensuring that only accurate and relevant data is tagged as sensitive.
Patient RecordsIn healthcare, accurately identifying patient records is critical for compliance with regulations like HIPAA. EDM classifiers can match exact patient IDs or health record numbers, minimising the risk of misclassification and ensuring strong data protection.
Employee Records Managing employee data involves handling sensitive information like Social Security numbers, employee IDs, and personal contact details. EDM classifiers help in exactly matching and classifying this information, enhancing data security and compliance.
4. Utilising EDM Classifiers in Auto-Labelling Policies
Auto-labelling policies in Microsoft Purview automatically apply sensitivity labels to data based on the classification criteria set by the organisation. Using EDM classifiers in these policies ensures that labels are applied accurately, without the noise of false positives.
For example, an auto-labelling policy can be configured to apply a "Confidential" label to any document containing exact matches of client account numbers listed in the EDM data source. This ensures that only documents with actual sensitive data receive the appropriate label.
5. Leveraging EDM Classifiers in Data Loss Prevention (DLP) Policies
DLP policies help prevent the unintentional sharing of sensitive information. By integrating EDM classifiers into DLP policies, organisations can create more effective rules that trigger protective actions only when exact matches of sensitive data are detected.
For instance, a DLP policy could be set to block emails or file transfers that contain exact matches of employee Social Security numbers, as identified by the EDM classifier. This precise matching capability ensures that legitimate business communications are not unduly interrupted while safeguarding critical data.
6. Conclusion
Exact Data Match (EDM) classifiers in Microsoft Purview offer a more precise and reliable method for identifying and protecting sensitive information compared to traditional custom sensitive information types. By reducing false positives and ensuring accurate data classification, EDM classifiers enhance data security and compliance efforts. Whether managing client data, patient records, or employee information, integrating EDM classifiers into auto-labelling and DLP policies provides robust protection and peace of mind.
Stay ahead in data governance by leveraging the power of EDM classifiers in your organisation's data protection strategy.
Check back for part 2 to see how to set up an EDM classifier.
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