To prevent users from modifying or removing sensitivity labels in Power BI, you can follow these steps to enforce consistent data protection and ensure that labels remain intact:
1. Enable Sensitivity Labels Lockdown
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Configure Labeling Policies: In Microsoft Purview Compliance Portal (formerly Microsoft 365 compliance center), you can configure your sensitivity labels so they cannot be modified or removed by end users. These settings ensure that labels are applied and enforced at all times, regardless of user actions.
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Use 'Do Not Allow Changes' Option: When setting up or configuring sensitivity labels, you can specify that users cannot modify or remove the label once it’s applied. This is done by adjusting the settings in the Microsoft 365 compliance center, where you can disable users’ ability to alter the label on content.
2. Set Up Role-Based Access Control (RBAC) for Admins and Users
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Restrict Access to Sensitivity Label Settings: Ensure that only authorized users (such as admins) can configure, apply, or modify sensitivity labels. For example, limit access to labeling controls by using role-based access control (RBAC) in the Microsoft Purview compliance portal. Only allow users with specific roles (e.g., Compliance Administrator or Security Administrator) to manage sensitivity labels.
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Lock Permissions for Reports: In Power BI, you can lock the permissions for users to edit or modify report settings, including labels. You can use Power BI service’s workspace settings to restrict non-admin users from changing any label or report configurations.
3. Implement Information Protection Policies
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Encryption and Restrict Modifications: Sensitivity labels can enforce encryption, watermarking, and restriction on editing. By applying encryption to reports that include sensitive information, users cannot modify or remove the label without the correct permissions.
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Automatic Application of Sensitivity Labels: Configure automatic sensitivity label application based on content classification rules. This helps ensure that no user can bypass labeling by manually removing or changing the label. Sensitivity labels can be automatically applied when reports are published or shared, reducing human error and policy violations.
4. Audit and Monitor Label Changes
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Enable Auditing for Sensitivity Labels: In Microsoft 365 compliance center, enable audit logging to track any changes made to sensitivity labels. This includes monitoring when a label is removed, modified, or replaced, helping you detect unauthorized changes.
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Set Alerts for Unauthorized Changes: Set up alerts to notify administrators when there are attempts to modify or remove sensitivity labels. This will provide a quick response to potential policy violations and ensure compliance.
5. Educate Users and Enforce Data Protection Best Practices
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User Training: While configuring technical controls is essential, educating users about the importance of data security and the role of sensitivity labels in protecting sensitive information can go a long way. Empower users to recognize the value of adhering to established data protection policies.
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User Awareness Campaigns: Implement campaigns or internal communications that emphasize the importance of not tampering with sensitivity labels, and highlight the consequences of policy violations.
