Uptake of data loss prevention technology to remain low, despite risks

In a new report*, the independent technology analyst firm states that the data loss prevention (DLP) technology market will reach global revenues of just US$832 million** by 2015, from a low base point of US$458 million in 2009. These figures are small in comparison to other key IT security markets such as network security, which will reach revenues of US$6.5 billion in 2015.

Andy Kellett, Ovum analyst and author of the report commented: "Both public and private sector organisations have compelling reasons to protect their sensitive data, such as the potential for financial losses and regulatory requirements. DLP solutions are widely available but, despite this, enterprise take-up levels remain relatively low.

Protect your data

"There are some justifiable reasons for this reluctance to take up DLP products; current offerings are often perceived as too complex to deploy and support and also expensive to operate and maintain, while not providing a good enough return on investment. Part of the problem is the unrealistic way these products were originally brought to market.

"However, organisations of all types and sizes must make better provision for protecting the sensitive data that they work with, maintain and store. If this does not happen, we will see regulatory and business implications, causing businesses to fail."

According to the report, organisations that may have been put off investing in DLP technology due to IT budget pressures should take a risk-based prioritisation approach to deployments. Kellett continued: "Organisations may not be certain about where all sensitive data is held, but will normally know what their most valuable data assets are. These are the areas for prioritisation and should be the first stage of the DLP project."

*Data loss prevention

**Exchange rate at time of publishing: US$1=R6.83

© Ovum 2011