Data flows constantly through devices, applications, and networks.

While most of this activity is legitimate, some can result in sensitive information ending up where it doesn’t belong.

This article explores intentional data leakage : what it is, how it happens, and how organizations can prevent it.

What is Intentional Data Leakage?

Intentional data leakage is the deliberate transfer of sensitive information to unauthorized parties.

Unlike accidental leaks, this involves conscious efforts to expose data, often by employees, contractors, or external attackers. These actors may hide their tracks using encryption, log deletion, or slow, unnoticed data transfers. According to IBM, insider threats nearly half of which are intentional account for 15% of all data breaches.

Intentional Data Leakage vs Accidental Data Leakage

Intentional Data Leakage Accidental Data Leakage
Deliberate and planned Unintentional and random
Often involves concealment Usually immediately apparent
Targets specific data Can affect any accessible data
Harder to detect and prevent Easier to spot with basic controls

Why Intentional Data Leaking Happens

Understanding motivation is key to prevention.

Reasons include financial gain, espionage, or personal grievances.

1. Financial gain

  • Selling data to identity thieves
  • Insider trading or data sold to ransomware groups
  • Unusual file access or lifestyle changes are warning signs

2. Competitive espionage

Insiders may leak data before joining or helping a competitor, especially in tech, pharma, and finance sectors.

3. Workplace grievances

Disgruntled employees may leak HR docs, internal emails, or sensitive files to harm the company.

Key Risks and Consequences of Malicious Information Leakage

The fallout from intentional leaks can last years.

These include financial penalties, reputational damage, legal exposure, and operational disruptions.

Financial impacts

  • Regulatory fines (e.g., GDPR: up to 4% of global revenue)
  • Legal costs and settlements
  • Remediation and control updates

Reputational damage

Surveys show 65% of customers would leave a company after a serious breach.

Regulatory consequences

Leaking data may breach GDPR, HIPAA, PCI DSS, etc., requiring disclosure and penalties.

Operational disruption

Security teams shift to crisis mode, workflows are impacted, and leadership focus is diverted.

Common Vectors and Methods Used to Leak Data

Knowing the methods helps prevent breaches.

Top vectors include emails, USB devices, and collaboration tools.

1. Email and cloud uploads

  • Sending files to personal accounts
  • Uploading data to Dropbox or Google Drive

2. USB drives and external storage

Physical devices bypass network-based detection. They're hard to track once removed.

3. Messaging and collaboration tools

  • Microsoft Teams and Slack allow guest sharing and file downloads
  • Zoom enables screen sharing and chat exports
  • Google Workspace permits external document access

Essential Data Leakage Controls and Detection Strategies

Layered security is essential.

Focus on classification, monitoring, encryption, and policy enforcement.

1. Data classification & access control

  • Classify data (Highly confidential, Confidential, Internal use, Public)
  • Enforce least privilege access

2. Monitoring and behavior analytics

Track data flows and flag unusual user behavior for investigation.

3. Encryption and policy enforcement

  • Encrypt data at rest, in transit, and in use
  • Restrict file transfers and printing
  • Log and audit access regularly

Proactive Steps to Prevent Data Leakage

Prevention starts with awareness, visibility, and control.

1. Train employees and clarify policies

  • Teach acceptable vs. risky behavior
  • Set expectations with written data handling rules

2. Deploy Endpoint DLP

Use tools like Endpoint DLP to monitor data movements, block risky actions, and track patterns.

3. Audit regularly

  • Review access rights
  • Test policies and controls
  • Analyze logs for red flags

Strengthening Security with a Comprehensive Data Leakage Solution

ManageEngine Endpoint DLP Plus is designed to combat intentional data leaks.

It offers real-time visibility, device control, and policy enforcement—all crucial for protecting sensitive information.

  • Complete visibility: Tracks how data moves across endpoints and apps
  • Proactive prevention: Blocks suspicious data transfers automatically
  • Compliance readiness: Supports GDPR, HIPAA, and other regulations