What is the correct sequence when dealing with DLP rules and policies?

In the context of Data Loss Prevention (DLP) rules and policies, the principle of "Explicit > Implicit" serves as a foundational concept. This means that when both explicit and implicit rules or policies exist within the same environment, the explicit policies take precedence over implicit ones.

For example, if there is a specific DLP policy that outlines strict controls for handling sensitive information, and there is another more general policy that applies to broader scenarios, the specific policy (the explicit one) will override the general one (the implicit). This helps ensure that organizations can enforce stringent measures where necessary without being diluted by broader policies that may not account for particular sensitive scenarios.

This hierarchy of explicit versus implicit is crucial for maintaining compliance and protecting sensitive data effectively. It allows organizations to tailor their DLP strategies to meet specific regulatory and operational needs, ensuring that the rules most relevant to their data protection goals are honored first. Thus, understanding this sequence is vital for anyone involved in managing Microsoft's information protection and DLP policies.