Sensitivity labels
Mid Sweden University is introducing a new support that helps all employees manage their work documents in Microsoft 365 in a secure way. The support is called "sensitivity labels" and is an opportunity to add protection and get guidance on how the document can be shared with others.
What are sensitivity labels?
Sensitivity labels are a tool in Microsoft 365 that helps us classify and protect sensitive information in our documents, emails, and other digital resources. They are used to:
- Ensure that sensitive information is handled correctly
- Comply with the University's information security policy
- Protect data without hindering collaboration
Why should sensitivity labels be introduced?
Sensitivity labels are an important tool for improving our information management and security, while also helping us meet legal and regulatory requirements.
They make it possible to control and clarify who has access to different types of information.
By introducing sensitivity labels, we link them directly to our existing information classification model. The labels make the level of protection of the information visible to all users and thus contribute to increased awareness and security in the organization.
How do sensitivity labels work?
Sensitivity labels are a simple yet powerful tool to protect our information.
They act as a digital stamp on documents and emails, indicating how sensitive the information is and how it should be handled.
When a label is applied, it accompanies the document, no matter where it's saved or who opens it, ensuring that the information is handled correctly.
Depending on the label selected, various protection measures can be automatically enabled, such as encryption or restricted access.
In addition, the label serves as a visible reminder to everyone handling the document about its sensitivity and security rules.
Our sensitivity labels
We apply four different sensitivity labels: Open, Limited Sharing, Confidential, and Strictly Confidential. Limited sharing is our default label.
How to use sensitivity labels
Sensitivity labels are easy to use. You can find them right in your standard Microsoft 365 applications like Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook. It's easy to choose the right label when creating or editing a document.