DLP solutions are no longer limited to blocking data leaks. Advanced DLP and next-generation DLP systems include investigative capabilities that help security teams understand incidents, identify root causes, and prevent recurrence. These capabilities directly reduce financial losses, reputational damage, and operational disruption.

Many data security incidents result from user actions, process weaknesses, or misuse of access. Without investigation tools, organisations can only react after damage has already occurred. A DLP system with strong investigative functionality enables faster analysis and timely corrective actions.

Below are practical examples that demonstrate which DLP capabilities are essential for effective incident investigation.

Case 1. Detecting Document Forgery

A DLP system identified that a sales manager was regularly using graphic editing software that was not required for her role. Time monitoring data showed that several hours per day were spent in the application. At the same time, scanned copies of commercial offers were repeatedly saved on her workstation.

Anomaly detection triggered an investigation by the security team. Retrospective analysis revealed that the employee was modifying commercial proposals by increasing monetary values before sending them to clients.

Result: Analytical and investigation tools within the DLP system helped uncover internal fraud and prevent direct financial losses.

Learn how document forgery can be prevented with DLP.

Case 2. Monitoring Working Hours and Misuse of Resources

Employees in a project department requested permission to work overtime on weekends. The request was approved, and their activity was monitored using DLP tools. Reports showed active use of job-related software and high productivity indicators.

However, analysis of screenshots revealed that employees were working on third-party projects. They were using corporate hardware, licensed software, and confidential company data for external work.

Result: The investigation prevented data leakage and uncovered unauthorised commercial activity.

How DLP supports employee productivity monitoring.

Case 3. Identifying Violations of Corporate Policies

After deploying a DLP system, a security specialist noticed unusual connections between three employees from different departments. They did not interact during working hours but used the same email address.

Investigation of email drafts revealed financial documents belonging to a third-party company. Further analysis showed that the employees had established a competing business and planned to attract their employer’s clients.

Result: Investigation tools enabled the detection of internal fraud and helped prevent the loss of clients and revenue.

Explore how security software prevents corporate policy violations.

Case 4. Analysing a Phishing Incident

An employee at an insurance company opened a phishing email containing ransomware. Antivirus software detected the infected file on one workstation.

Using DLP tools, the security team audited the incident to determine whether the attachment had been distributed through other channels, whether additional employees received the same message, and whether the sender used alternative email addresses.

Result: The investigation limited the spread of the attack and reduced damage across affected departments.

Learn how DLP prevents hacker intrusions with our practical guide.

Case 5. Retrospective Investigation After Employee Dismissal

A system administrator was dismissed for long-term absenteeism. Due to his level of access, the security team reviewed his activity during the two weeks prior to termination.

The investigation revealed that the employee had deployed a delayed-execution program designed to erase network configurations after his departure. If activated, it would have disrupted email, printing, and internet access across the organisation.

Result: Retrospective investigation prevented a serious business interruption and avoided significant recovery costs.

How to prevent high-risk employees from damaging information security.

What This Means for DLP Selection

These cases demonstrate that investigative functionality is a core requirement for DLP systems, not an optional feature.

DLP or next-generation DLP solution should provide:

• Detailed activity monitoring and historical data storage
• Anomaly detection and behaviour analysis
• Tools for retrospective investigation
• Clear visibility into user actions and data flows
• Fast incident analysis across multiple channels

Information security should be treated as a continuous business process. DLP systems with strong investigative capabilities allow organisations not only to respond to incidents, but also to understand them, eliminate root causes, and strengthen protection over time.

Explore the SearchInform product portfolio to find the right solution for your needs.