In which way does Microsoft Defender for Cloud Apps integrate with Azure Information Protection to protect sensitive data?

Microsoft Defender for Cloud Apps integrates with Azure Information Protection primarily through the capability of automatic scanning and classification of new files based on predefined sensitivity labels. This integration allows organizations to automate the process of identifying sensitive information, ensuring that files are automatically categorized based on defined sensitivity criteria such as personal data, financial information, or other classified information types.

Having this automatic scanning feature is crucial because it enhances data governance and compliance efforts by ensuring that sensitive data is consistently monitored and appropriately labeled according to the organization's data protection policies. When a file is identified as sensitive, additional protective measures can be applied, such as monitoring access to the file, applying encryption, or enforcing strict sharing policies, all of which contribute to reducing the risk of data leakage or unauthorized access.

This method of proactive monitoring and classification supports the implementation of compliance frameworks and helps organizations maintain a robust security posture across their cloud applications.