What is Data Discovery?
Data discovery is the automated process of identifying and cataloging personal data across an organization technology landscape, including databases, file systems, cloud storage, and SaaS applications.
Data discovery is the process of systematically scanning and identifying personal data across all data repositories within an organization. Modern data discovery uses AI-powered scanning, pattern matching, and natural language processing to find personal data in structured databases, unstructured files, cloud storage, email systems, and SaaS applications.
Data discovery is foundational to privacy compliance—organizations cannot protect, manage, or fulfill rights requests for data they do not know exists. DiscoverIQ automates data discovery across the entire technology estate, providing continuous visibility into where personal data resides and how it flows between systems.
Relevant Regulations
How IQWorks Helps
Related Terms
Data Classification
Data classification is the process of categorizing data by sensitivity level, type, and regulatory applicability to determine appropriate protection measures and handling procedures.
Data Mapping
Data mapping is the process of identifying and documenting how personal data flows through an organization, including where it is collected, stored, processed, shared, and eventually deleted.
Shadow IT
Shadow IT refers to technology systems, applications, and cloud services used within an organization without formal IT department approval or oversight.
Dark Data
Dark data is information collected and stored by an organization but never analyzed, used, or leveraged, often containing personal data that creates unmanaged privacy risk.