White Paper
Data Classification Services
Data compliance management is a complex process. With only approximately 6% of organisations being Microsoft E5 ready and in a position to implement information security and compliance successfully, this is even more crucial.
CWSI has developed a Data Classification Readiness Assessment to help organisations define the problem and create a roadmap to implement a data classification program using Microsoft Purview.
What is Data Classification?
Data classification is the systematic categorisation based on its sensitivity, value, and the level of protection required. It helps organisations manage and secure their data effectively by allowing them to prioritise resources, comply with regulations, and reduce risks. By organising data into categories such as public, confidential, or restricted, organisations can ensure that sensitive information is handled appropriately, whether it’s being accessed, stored, or shared.
Data classification also forms the foundation for cybersecurity strategies, enhancing data governance and allowing businesses to implement security measures. With growing concerns about data breaches and regulatory compliance, classifying data has become an essential step in protecting valuable assets and maintaining trust.
Data Challenges
- Organisations’ data must be mapped to understand where the sensitive and critical data resides and who it could be exposed to.
- Sensitive data that is not classified and labelled makes it difficult to manage and mitigate any potential risks associated with the data.
- Data Classification requirements need to be clearly defined to meet the business’s needs and be relevant to real risks.
- Organisations struggle to implement Data Classification and DLP programs, primarily because of a lack of visibility into the data landscape and having defined business requirements.
CWSI’s data classification insight tool autonomously maps your M365 information-in-motion.
By categorising your assets into over 300 out-of-the-box information categories, our tool will give you a comprehensive view of your data landscape, enabling us to identify what your data is, where it is, and even how it is being processed. Understanding your data structure is the key first step to developing a Data Classification program.
Visibility of your Sensitive Information
Visibility is the building block of information security. It determines how effective every other activity can be. CWSI can provide better information visibility to your organisation’s data.
CWSI’s Data Classification Readiness Assessment uses our state-of-the-art discovery tool in conjunction with our tried-and-tested requirements gathering workshop methodology. This gives customers the basic building blocks to start implementing a structured Data Classification program.
What Role Does Automated Classification Play in Data Security?
Automated classification tools use predefined rules and algorithms to analyse and categorise data based on specific criteria. This speeds up the classification process, reduces human error, and ensures consistency across large datasets.
These tools are essential for identifying sensitive information, such as personally identifiable information, financial records, or intellectual property, and labelling it appropriately. By doing so, automated classification increases data security by allowing organisations to enforce access controls, apply encryption, and monitor data usage in real-time.
What Is included in Our Data Classification Service?
An executive report of your critical Microsoft 365 information, showing you:
- What data lives in your cloud.
- Where that data resides.
- How it flows between users, contacts, and organisations.
- A documented set of requirements for your Data Classification program, based on a workshop led by our expert data security consultants.
- A roadmap of recommended next steps to implement a data classification project using Microsoft Sensitivity labels
Experts in Classification
At CWSI, our team members pride themselves on their knowledge surrounding data classification. We help organisations identify, label and categorise sensitive information effectively.
By implementing our data classification strategies, we give businesses the power to have better control and vision over their data and overall security. Contact us today and support a secure and organised data environment managed by our team.
Request Your Data Classification Readiness Assessment Below:
Data Classification Services FAQs
Can data classification be integrated with existing data security solutions?
Our data classification solutions are designed to integrate seamlessly with your current security frameworks. By aligning with existing data loss prevention systems, identity and access management tools, encryption protocols, and data governance platforms, our solutions ensure a robust security infrastructure.
This integration allows for more granular control over sensitive information, automates compliance processes, and increases visibility across the entire data lifecycle.
What is the cost structure for data classification services?
The cost of data classification services varies based on several factors. Key considerations include the scope and volume of data to be classified, as well as the complexity of classification levels required.
Specific industry needs, such as regulatory compliance or advanced security requirements, can influence pricing. Our team will work with you to understand your organisation’s unique requirements and design a solution that meets both your budget and data management goals.
Does CWSI offer training or support for using data classification tools?
Yes, CWSI offers training sessions and ongoing support to ensure that your team is fully equipped to use and manage data classification tools effectively. Our training covers all aspects of data classification, from initial setup and configuration to advanced usage and best practices.
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