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Cloud adoption has transformed how organizations work, but it’s also introduced new risks—especially when it comes to protecting sensitive data. Data Loss Prevention (DLP) tools are supposed to be the safety net, but even the best solutions can miss critical blind spots. According to a 2025 industry report, only 9% of organizations detect and remediate cloud security incidents quickly enough to prevent damage, leaving the vast majority exposed to costly breaches and compliance headaches[1]. If you’re relying on traditional DLP controls, it’s time to rethink your approach.
Why DLP Blind Spots Matter in the Cloud
Cloud environments are dynamic, collaborative, and always changing. This flexibility is great for productivity, but it also means data can slip through the cracks in ways legacy DLP tools weren’t designed to catch. Blind spots in DLP coverage can lead to:
- Accidental data leaks through misconfigured sharing settings
- Undetected insider threats or compromised accounts
- Compliance violations that trigger audits or fines
- Loss of customer trust and business reputation
Let’s break down the top 10 DLP blind spots putting your cloud data at risk—and what you can do about them.
1. Shadow IT and Unmanaged Apps
What’s the risk?
Employees often use unsanctioned apps to get work done faster. These “shadow IT” tools can bypass your DLP controls entirely, making it impossible to track where sensitive data is going.
How this happens:
- Users connect personal cloud storage or messaging apps to their work accounts
- Data is copied or synced outside your monitored environment
What you can do:
- Use DLP solutions that monitor for unauthorized app connections
- Educate employees about the risks of shadow IT
2. Lack of Cloud Visibility
Why does this matter?
As organizations grow, it becomes harder to see everything happening in the cloud. Without full visibility, you can’t protect what you can’t see.
Common issues:
- Blind spots in file sharing and permissions
- Missed changes in user access or group memberships
Solution approach:
- Choose DLP tools that provide real-time, organization-wide visibility
- Regularly audit sharing settings and access logs
3. Misconfigured Access Controls
The problem
Cloud platforms offer granular permissions, but misconfigurations are common. One wrong setting can expose sensitive files to the entire internet.
Typical scenarios:
- “Anyone with the link” sharing enabled by mistake
- Overly broad group permissions
How to address:
- Automate detection of risky sharing configurations
- Enforce least-privilege access policies
4. Data in Motion: Unmonitored Email and File Transfers
Why it’s a blind spot
Email remains a top vector for data leakage. If your DLP only scans endpoints or storage, you’re missing data in transit.
Risks include:
- Sensitive data sent to personal or external email addresses
- Files shared via unencrypted channels
Best practices:
- Deploy DLP that inspects email and file transfers in real time
- Set up alerts for policy violations
5. Insider Threats and Compromised Accounts
What’s at stake?
Not all threats come from outside. Malicious insiders or compromised accounts can exfiltrate data without triggering traditional DLP rules.
Warning signs:
- Unusual download or sharing activity
- Access from unfamiliar locations or devices
How to respond:
- Combine DLP with identity threat detection
- Monitor for behavioral anomalies
6. Data at Rest: Incomplete Coverage
The challenge
Many DLP tools focus on data in motion, but data at rest—files stored in cloud drives or archives—can be just as vulnerable.
Gaps to watch for:
- Sensitive files left unencrypted in shared folders
- Old data forgotten but still accessible
What works:
- Scan and classify data at rest regularly
- Apply encryption and data retention policies
7. Ineffective Data Classification
Why classification matters
If your DLP can’t accurately identify what’s sensitive, it can’t protect it. Poor data classification leads to both false positives and missed leaks.
Common pitfalls:
- Relying on basic keyword matching
- Not updating classification rules as data types evolve
How to improve:
- Use advanced, context-aware classification
- Regularly review and refine data classification policies
8. Slow Detection and Remediation
The impact
Speed matters. The longer it takes to detect a possible breach, the more time an attacker has to exfiltrate data.
Causes of delay:
- Manual review processes
- Siloed security tools that don’t communicate
How to fix:
- Automate incident detection and response
- Integrate DLP with your broader security stack
9. Compliance Gaps and Regulatory Blind Spots
The risk
Cloud environments are subject to strict regulations like GDPR and HIPAA. Missing a compliance requirement can lead to fines and reputational damage.
Where gaps appear:
- Incomplete audit trails
- Data stored in non-compliant regions
What to do:
- Map DLP policies to regulatory requirements
- Use tools that provide detailed compliance reporting
10. Shared Responsibility Confusion
Why this is overlooked
Cloud providers secure the infrastructure, but you’re responsible for your data, apps, and configurations. Many organizations misunderstand this shared responsibility model, leaving critical gaps.
Typical misunderstandings:
- Assuming the provider handles all security
- Overlooking configuration and user management
How to clarify:
- Educate teams on shared responsibility
- Use DLP solutions designed for cloud environments
Industry Trends: The Need for Adaptive, AI-Driven DLP
A 2025 analysis highlights that enterprises are struggling with the complexity and noise of traditional DLP tools, especially as generative AI and new collaboration platforms multiply the ways data can leak[2]. Modern DLP must be adaptive, context-aware, and able to operate across multiple environments in real time.
“This shift highlights the need for modern, AI-driven DLP solutions that provide adaptive, real-time protection across multiple environments.”[2]
How Material Security Closes the Gaps
Material Security’s platform is purpose-built for cloud workspaces like Google Workspace and Microsoft 365. By combining email security, data protection, identity threat detection, and configuration management in a single solution, Material Security:
- Automates detection and remediation of risky behaviors
- Maintains productivity and collaboration without heavy-handed restrictions
- Provides real-time visibility and actionable insights for security teams
This approach helps organizations address the most persistent DLP blind spots—without slowing down business.
Take Control of Your Email and File Data
DLP blind spots don’t have to be inevitable. With the right tools and strategies, you can protect your cloud data from leaks, breaches, and compliance risks—while keeping your team productive.
Ready to see how Material Security can help you close your DLP gaps? Contact us for a personalized demo or explore our resources to learn more.
Cloud data protection is a moving target, but you don’t have to chase it alone. By understanding and addressing these 10 DLP blind spots, you’ll be better equipped to keep your organization’s data safe—no matter where it lives.
References
- Check Point’s 2025 Report Reveals Cloud Security Blind Spots Costing Enterprises
- The State of DLP in 2025: Enterprises Struggle with Complexity, Noise, and GenAI Risks
