Let’s be honest here—protecting sensitive data is no easy feat. Hackers are more intelligent, the rules are stricter, and businesses cannot risk getting it wrong when it comes to defending their information. That’s where masking comes in. Instead of providing true information, masking replaces it with artificial yet similarly looking information. This way, even when someone tries to sneak a peek at your database, they won’t get their hands on something useful.
Not all data masking solutions are the same, though. Some are meant to function effectively at large organizations, while others are meant for smaller organizations. Some are best suited to masking in real-time, while some are best suited to protecting test environments. So, which ones are you considering? Below are five of the best data masking tools.
1. K2view Data Masking
If you are looking for speed, agility, and serious automation, K2view Data Masking is the way to go. This tool is all about real-time masking—that is, your data is secured the moment someone tries to access it. That makes it the perfect solution for businesses that are required to share information between teams while keeping sensitive info locked up tight.
One of the most fascinating things about K2view is its Micro-Database methodology. Instead of covering up entire sets all at once, it breaks them up into smaller, more workable pieces. This keeps things moving more quickly and more easily, especially when you’re dealing with large data environments.
One of the major positives? It supports all databases and platforms–on-premise, cloud, hybrid, name them. Whether you’re handling customer information, payment information, or any other sensitive data, K2view can protect it without compromising performance.
2. IBM InfoSphere Optim Data Privacy
IBM’s been around the block when it comes to data security, and their InfoSphere Optim Data Privacy tool is a safe bet for businesses that need static data masking. The tool masks the data as it is being copied or moved, perfect for test environments where developers are required to use representative but safe data.
One of the greatest things about this tool is that it can handle massive sets of information without breaking a sweat. It also integrates nicely with IBM’s other security solutions, so if you are already using IBM products, this will integrate nicely.
If your company needs to abide by standards like GDPR, HIPAA, or CCPA, this tool can keep you in the clear. Backed by IBM, you can count on enterprise-level reliability.
3. Delphix Data Masking
If you hate waiting around for IT sign-off and manual processes, you’re going to love Delphix. Delphix is all about automation and makes masking data easy and speedy. No matter whether you are working in the cloud, on-premise, or hybrid environments, Delphix automatically masks your data without disrupting your workflow.
One of the greatest features is self-service access. Instead of having developers and testers ask IT to get them masked data whenever they need it, they can access it instantly—with never having to view the true sensitive information.
One more reason why businesses are so fond of Delphix? Data virtualization. Instead of duplicating databases as copies, Delphix provides virtual ones that take up much less storage, saving you lots of money on storage costs. In need of something quick, efficient, and automated? Delphix is the way to go.
4. Oracle Data Safe
If you are dealing with Oracle databases, then Oracle Data Safe is the one you are searching for. It is designed specifically for Oracle environments and does both security monitoring and masking of the data simultaneously.
One of the best features of Oracle Data Safe is that it automatically recognizes sensitive information. Instead of having to manually decide on the fields that need to be masked, this tool scans your database and applies masking rules automatically. That’s a huge time saver, especially for businesses handling enormous quantities of personal or financial data.
One other useful feature? It not only hides information—it also monitors activity on the databases to check for any suspicious behavior. So when someone is attempting to get at something they don’t have access to, you’ll know right away. If you use Oracle, this is absolutely essential.
5. Micro Focus Voltage SecureData
Lastly, but by no means least, there’s Micro Focus Voltage SecureData—a product that takes masking another way. Instead of substituting all of the true values with fake ones, it uses format-preserving encryption (FPE). So, how does that work? Masked data appears valid, though it’s completely unintelligible to anyone outside.
For example, a virtual credit card number keeps the same structure as an authentic credit card number. That’s extremely helpful when you are working on applications that require information to look legitimate while being safe.
Voltage SecureData is the favorite of industries including finance, health, and e-commerce, where usability cannot be compromised but security is of the highest priority. When you are looking for both protection and functionality, this tool is one to check out.
Summing it up
So, which one do you choose? That depends on your requirements. Need live masking and speed? K2View is the solution. Require static masking for testing environments? IBM InfoSphere Optim can assist. Want an automated, self-service solution? Delphix is the way to go.
At the end of the day, data security is no longer optional. Whether you’re protecting customers’ information, financial data, or medical records, having an adequate data masking tool can save you headaches (and potential fines). Pick one that fits you, and keep your data away from prying eyes.
