Management is concerned about sensitive information being intentionally or unintentionally emailed as attachments outside the organization by employees. What is the MOST important task before implemen

Notifying employees about monitoring is a legal and ethical consideration, but it doesn't define *what* sensitive data needs monitoring or protection.

An information classification scheme provides the essential framework for identifying, labeling, and handling sensitive data. Without clearly defined classifications, it's impossible to consistently and effectively configure email controls to detect and prevent the unauthorized transmission of specific types of sensitive information, leading to either over-blocking or under-protection.

An acceptable use policy is important for employee conduct but does not inherently define the technical characteristics of sensitive data that email controls need to enforce.

Requiring NDAs addresses legal protection and employee accountability but does not provide the technical basis for implementing automated controls to *prevent* data loss via email.