Data Loss Prevention (DLP)Internal vs External Controls

Internal vs External Controls

25 mins

Understanding the Concept

DLP can apply different controls based on whether data is being shared internally (within the organization) or externally (outside the organization). This recognizes that internal sharing often has lower risk than external.

External sharing controls are typically stricter: blocking or requiring justification. Internal sharing might just show a warning or require encryption without blocking.

The definition of 'external' includes: external email domains, guest users in Teams/SharePoint, and sharing links accessible outside the organization.

Key Points

  • Internal: Members of your tenant, internal email domains
  • External: Outside email domains, guest users, anonymous links
  • Graduated Response: Warn internally, block externally
  • Guest User Detection: Specific handling for B2B guests
  • Domain Whitelisting: Trusted partner domains

Why This Matters in Real Organizations

Most data breaches involve external sharing. By applying stricter controls to external sharing while allowing internal collaboration, you balance protection with productivity.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Treating internal and external the same
Not considering guest users as external
Forgetting about anonymous sharing links
Blocking external when warning would suffice

Interview Tips

  • Explain graduated response strategy
  • Discuss partner domain exceptions
  • Mention how to handle M&A scenarios

Exam Tips (SC-401)

  • Know how external recipients are identified
  • Understand guest user policies
  • Know anonymous link handling

Course Complete!

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