What Is Data Classification?
Data classification is an approach to identifying, protecting and managing information which has rapidly become best practice. Implemented as part of a layered security strategy, it enables an enterprise to defend itself against a variety of threats - from aggressive outsiders to untrained or well-meaning insiders - while unlocking the full potential of its data to drive innovation and productivity.
At its simplest level, data classification is “the process of organising data into categories for its most effective and efficient use”. From a security perspective classification involves the categorisation and labelling of data according to its level of sensitivity or value to an organisation – for instance as commercial in confidence, internal only or public. The approach switches the focus of data security from building ‘walls’ around networks, databases, applications or devices – increasingly ineffective, as 95% of breaches are caused by human error (your users are on the inside of any “wall”) – to the data itself.
The first step is to establish a policy as to what labels or classifications should be added to which files or emails. The company can then decide how to communicate this to employees and make a decision on how to implement the policy. Some organisations decide to adopt a manual only labelling policy however, there are more advanced data classification techniques that utilise software toolsets which attach labels to email messages, documents and files.
In addition to a visual marking that lets people know how the data should be handled, the label is embedded into the file properties as metadata, allowing the data to be accessed or used only in accordance with the rules that correspond with the data’s classification. This means that the protection travels with the data, wherever it is sent or stored. Each of the three techniques – paper-based classification, automated classification and user-driven (or user-applied) classification – has its own benefits and pitfalls.
Click on the link below to learn more about data classification and what it can do for your business.
Categorise, Label and Protect your data.
Data classification allows your users to assign a visual label to the data they create, so that informed decisions can be taken about how it is managed, protected and shared, both within and outside of your organisation.
Boldon James Classifier turns that visual label into metadata, which can be used to both enforce your company’s security policies and drive other technologies, such as data loss prevention, information rights management and archiving solutions.
The result is streamlined business processes with data security at the core, reducing risk and improving security culture
Data
Categorisation
Big data, data governance and data management – these are everyday challenges for all organisations today. Data categorisation with Boldon James Classifier helps you identify the context as well as content of data, and critically extends classification beyond the security domain to ensure you a holistic view of data.
Security
Labelling
Sensitive data is important to identify, to ensure the right people have access to the right data. However, sensitivity is just one dimension of data classification. In order to get the full potential from data classification, and value from your data, you need to combine categorisation with security labelling. Boldon James has the unique tools to show you how.
Equip Yourself With The Best Data Classification Solution And Future Proof Your Business
With Data Classification from Boldon James, you have total peace of mind you are prepared for anything the future throws at you. Whether this is big data, new data structures, new regulations or the introduction of new security technologies, our advanced data categorisation and labelling solutions adapt to keep you secure, compliant and in control.
Classifier
Protecting Data Throughout its Lifecycle
Our best-of-breed Data Classification solutions enable organisations to effectively manage data, streamline operations and proactively respond to regulatory change.
DATA-IN-USE
Office Classifier
Incorporates data classification into the primary productivity tools of Microsoft Office, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint – and also Visio and Project
CAD Classifier
Brings the benefits of data classification to key design documents across a variety of CAD applications, including AutoCAD and Draftsight
Mac Classifier
Brings the benefits of user-centric data classification to organisations using Mac devices
DATA-AT-REST
File Classifier
Provides users with the means to classify any file held in Windows File Store
SharePoint Classifier
Classify data stored within Microsoft SharePoint using the familiar and intuitive Classifier interface
Box Classifier
Extends document classification into Box Cloud-based storage ensuring seamless document control regardless of its location
MANAGEMENT & MONITORING
Classifier Administration
Provides everything System Administrators need to manage your scheme with simplicity.
Classifier Reporting
Monitor and report on classification events and the handling of classified data
DATA-IN-MOTION
Email Classifier
Adds message classification capabilities to Microsoft Outlook
Notes Classifier
Adds message classification capabilities to Lotus Notes
OWA Classifier
Brings classification to the Microsoft Outlook Web App, providing a consistent, intuitive experience to users
Exchange Classifier
Enhances endpoint classification solutions by applying policy to every message sent and received within your organisation, internal or external, inbound or outbound
Classifier
Foundation Suite
Everything you Need to Get Started
The Classifier Foundation Suite contains everything you need to get started with Classification at your organisation including Classifier for Email, Office, and files.
Additionally your System Administrator will be empowered with everything they need to set classification policies and rules, as well as classifying data at rest.
Award-Winning, Data-Centric Security
In recognition for our enterprise data security and protection capabilities, Cybersecurity Excellence has named HelpSystems the 2022 winner in the following categories:
- Anti Phishing
- Cyber Threat Intelligence
- Data Classification
- Data Security
- Data-Centric Security
- Digital Rights Management
- Email Security
- Phishing D&R
- Threat Detection, Intel, and Response

Keeping You Secure,
Compliant And In Control
Boldon James is a data classification and secure messaging specialist,
delivering globally-recognised innovation, service excellence and technology solutions that work.

"Great product
for user awareness"Very good customer support for implementation and operations. The product is great for improving user awareness of data classification.
"Great Customer Satisfaction and a well integrated product"
The Boldon James Engineers are very supportive in assisting with deployments, queries and handling issues.
"Helps to easily understand and implement classification"
Implementation is rather easier than other competitive products, administration console is also easier to understand and everything relevant to classification is there.
Why choose
Fortra's Boldon James
With unrivalled customer service and best-of-breed data protection and governance solutions,
we are helping many of the world’s most successful organisations take control of their business data.
Everyday, our customers enjoy more effective, secure and streamlined operations -
protecting their business critical information and reducing risk.

We integrate with powerful data security and governance ecosystems.

We protect business critical data, improve data control and reduce risk.

We deliver improved and streamlined business performance.

We are a “safe pair of hands” that constantly deliver success.