12 Best Data Masking Software Shortlist
I've analyzed and hand-picked 12 top data masking tools, each perfect to bridge your security gaps.
- BizDataX - Best for end-to-end data anonymization workflows
- Solix Data Masking - Best for comprehensive enterprise data management
- Mage Data - Best for dynamic data masking in real-time
- Clonetab - Best for scrambling data in Oracle databases
- Protegrity - Best for maintaining data usability while ensuring privacy
- SecuPi - Best for monitoring user behavior and data access
- Comforte - Best for tokenizing sensitive data to ensure privacy
- Skyflow - Best for compliance with GDPR and other regulations
- PrimeFactors - Best for enterprise-level data encryption and key management
- Microsoft SQL Server - Best for implementing data masking in SQL Server environments
- Baffle - Best for advanced encryption services for cloud-native applications
- Informatica Cloud Data Masking - Best for protecting data in cloud-based applications and platforms
Navigating the world of data masking can seem daunting, particularly when you're managing production data across various non-production environments. Trust me, I've been there. Implementing the right data masking techniques can help you maintain data governance while ensuring that sensitive details, like credit card numbers and confidential information, are kept secure.
I've sifted through numerous options, from proprietary solutions to open-source alternatives, all while considering data profiling and privacy laws. So, if you're seeking to protect your complex data and comply with stringent privacy laws, exploring these data masking options could be your next smart move. I'm confident they have what it takes to secure your confidential information effectively.
What Is a Data Masking Software?
Data masking software refers to technology that creates a structurally similar but inauthentic version of an organization's data to protect sensitive information from potential threats. Users often include businesses of all sizes, from startups to global enterprises, as well as government organizations and non-profits. They utilize these tools to ensure data privacy, meet regulatory compliance standards, and safeguard their business-critical information from unauthorized access.
By obfuscating sensitive elements like personally identifiable information (PII), financial data, or intellectual property, data masking tools make it virtually impossible for malicious entities to gain anything of value, even if they breach the data storage system. This maintains the integrity and confidentiality of the data, whilst still allowing for effective data processing, testing, and analysis.
12 Best Data Masking Software Overviews
1. BizDataX - Best for end-to-end data anonymization workflows
BizDataX is a powerful data masking solution that operates across the full spectrum of data anonymization. This tool stands out by ensuring that all sensitive data is completely disguised in a way that preserves its original structure and usability.
Why I Picked BizDataX:
When comparing various data masking solutions, BizDataX stood out because of its comprehensive and holistic approach to data anonymization. Rather than focusing on isolated areas, it manages the entire workflow.
This makes it ideal for businesses looking for an all-encompassing solution. In terms of its "best for" statement, I found that BizDataX's complete suite of tools from discovery to masking and provisioning is why it's best for end-to-end data anonymization workflows.
Standout Features & Integrations:
BizDataX’s features are quite extensive, with a strong emphasis on automating the data discovery and masking processes. It also offers a powerful Test Data Management (TDM) portal, making it easier to manage test data across the organization.
Integrations-wise, BizDataX integrates well with most databases and enterprise applications, including Oracle, SQL Server, and IBM DB2, which further extends its capability to manage data across various platforms.
Pricing:
Pricing for BizDataX starts from $50/user/month (billed annually), depending on the selected functionalities and size of data sets.
Pros:
- Extensive data masking and anonymization functionality
- Comprehensive Test Data Management (TDM) portal
- Wide range of integration options with various databases and applications
Cons:
- Steep learning curve for new users
- The tool might be overkill for smaller organizations
- Cost may be prohibitive for smaller budgets
2. Solix Data Masking - Best for comprehensive enterprise data management
Solix Data Masking is a robust data protection solution that targets all areas of data management within an enterprise. It offers an exceptional level of control over data, which makes it an excellent choice for businesses looking for comprehensive data management solutions.
Why I Picked Solix Data Masking:
In my selection process, I gravitated towards Solix Data Masking due to its unique approach to data management. It stands out from other tools because it does not just focus on data masking; instead, it takes into account the entire data management process, creating a cohesive and comprehensive system.
In my judgment, this holistic approach aligns perfectly with its USP, making it indeed the best choice for comprehensive enterprise data management.
Standout Features & Integrations:
One of the standout features of Solix Data Masking is its ability to discover sensitive data and apply consistent masking rules across the organization. This includes structured and unstructured data, further extending its versatility.
As for integrations, Solix provides a wide range of compatibility with different databases, including Oracle, IBM DB2, and SQL Server. It also integrates well with Hadoop for big data analytics.
Pricing:
Pricing information for Solix Data Masking is not directly available on the website. You'll need to contact Solix directly for a quote. Hence, the pricing is "upon request."
Pros:
- Comprehensive approach to data management
- Capability to handle both structured and unstructured data
- Wide range of integration options
Cons:
- Pricing information is not readily available
- The interface may seem complex to new users
- The full range of features might be overwhelming for small-scale operations
3. Mage Data - Best for dynamic data masking in real-time
Mage Data is a strong contender in the field of data protection, specializing in dynamic data masking in real time. It's specifically designed to provide instantaneous data obfuscation, making it an ideal choice for organizations requiring real-time data security measures.
Why I Picked Mage Data:
Among the different options, I chose Mage Data because of its impressive real-time data masking capabilities. Unlike many other tools, Mage Data delivers dynamic data masking in real-time, making it a unique and invaluable tool.
This real-time feature is crucial for organizations that deal with live data streams and require immediate data masking. It’s for these reasons that I determined that Mage Data is the best for dynamic data masking in real-time.
Standout Features & Integrations:
Mage Data shines with its ability to dynamically mask data on the fly. This feature is a game-changer for businesses dealing with sensitive real-time data. It also has robust reporting capabilities, allowing for constant monitoring and alerts.
As for integrations, Mage Data works well with various data sources like SQL Server, Oracle, and MySQL databases, and is compatible with multiple big data platforms, ensuring extensive coverage.
Pricing:
Mage Data offers a starting price of $60/user/month (billed annually). This cost can increase depending on the number of data sources and the complexity of the masking requirements.
Pros:
- Exceptional dynamic data masking in real-time
- Strong reporting and alert system
- Extensive compatibility with various databases and big data platforms
Cons:
- Could be expensive for small businesses
- Might have a steep learning curve for non-technical users
- Comprehensive features could be overwhelming for basic use
4. Clonetab - Best for scrambling data in Oracle databases
Clonetab is a data masking software that provides top-notch data scrambling capabilities, focusing primarily on Oracle databases. It’s a highly effective tool for any Oracle-dependent organization that needs to safeguard its sensitive data.
Why I Picked Clonetab:
I selected Clonetab as part of this list because of its unrivaled proficiency in data scrambling for Oracle databases. This specific focus sets it apart from many other tools in the market. If you're working primarily with Oracle databases, Clonetab's features are designed to cater to your needs.
It’s this targeted functionality that leads me to choose Clonetab as the best for scrambling data in Oracle databases.
Standout Features & Integrations:
Clonetab offers high-speed data scrambling, which is crucial for large databases. Additionally, it has an impressive capability to mask data in cloned environments, providing an extra layer of security.
As for integrations, being built for Oracle, it integrates excellently with all Oracle databases and also supports integration with Oracle E-Business Suite.
Pricing:
Clonetab offers its services starting from $25/user/month (billed annually). Additional costs may apply based on the size and complexity of the databases involved.
Pros:
- Specializes in Oracle database data scrambling
- Fast data masking performance
- Supports data masking in cloned environments
Cons:
- Limited functionality outside Oracle databases
- Could be cost-prohibitive for small businesses
- Requires in-depth knowledge of Oracle databases
5. Protegrity - Best for maintaining data usability while ensuring privacy
Protegrity offers a robust data protection solution, with an emphasis on ensuring privacy while preserving the usability of data. For organizations needing to maintain operational efficiency in data-driven workflows while still prioritizing privacy, Protegrity offers a compelling option.
Why I Picked Protegrity:
In my judgment, Protegrity stands out due to its balanced approach toward data usability and privacy. Not every data masking solution manages to maintain the utility of data while ensuring privacy - and this is where Protegrity makes a difference.
For this list, I determined Protegrity as the best tool for maintaining data usability while ensuring privacy due to its advanced data de-identification methods, which ensure privacy without hampering data-driven operations.
Standout Features & Integrations:
Protegrity offers AI-powered data protection, automatic discovery of sensitive data, and robust de-identification methods such as tokenization, masking, and encryption. The tool integrates well with a broad range of systems including cloud platforms like AWS and Azure, databases like Oracle and SQL Server, and big data solutions like Hadoop.
Pricing:
Pricing for Protegrity starts from $30/user/month. However, this is the base price and additional costs may be incurred depending on the specific needs of the user.
Pros:
- Offers AI-powered data protection.
- Robust data de-identification methods.
- Broad range of integrations.
Cons:
- Pricing can scale up depending on user needs.
- May be overkill for smaller organizations.
- Requires technical expertise to implement and maintain
6. SecuPi - Best for monitoring user behavior and data access
SecuPi is a comprehensive tool focused on tracking and managing user behavior and data access within an organization. Its robust user activity monitoring capabilities make it an ideal choice for companies that want to gain in-depth insights into how their data is being accessed and used.
Why I Picked SecuPi:
I selected SecuPi for this list because it differentiates itself through its strong emphasis on user behavior monitoring and data access. This focus provides a distinctive benefit in environments where understanding and controlling user interactions with data is vital.
Consequently, I think SecuPi is "Best for" monitoring user behavior and data access due to its advanced user activity tracking features and ability to create granular access policies.
Standout Features & Integrations:
Key features of SecuPi include real-time user activity tracking, data access audit trails, and dynamic data masking. Furthermore, it provides policy-based access controls to ensure that data is only accessed by authorized personnel.
For integrations, SecuPi can connect with a broad array of databases, including Oracle, SQL Server, and MySQL, as well as ERP systems like SAP and Oracle E-Business Suite.
Pricing:
SecuPi's pricing starts from $15/user/month, billed annually. Please note that additional costs may be incurred depending on specific requirements.
Pros:
- Robust user activity tracking
- Dynamic data masking capabilities
- Comprehensive data access controls
Cons:
- Annual billing could be inconvenient for some
- Pricing can increase with added features
- Requires technical expertise for implementation and management
7. Comforte - Best for tokenizing sensitive data to ensure privacy
Comforte is a security-centric platform with a primary focus on data tokenization to ensure the privacy of sensitive information. The tool's core function is transforming sensitive data into non-sensitive equivalents, making it a suitable choice for businesses that handle sensitive customer information and want to maintain their privacy.
Why I Picked Comforte:
I chose Comforte for this list because of its specialization in data tokenization, which is an essential element for data privacy. This tool stands apart due to its data-centric security approach.
I believe that Comforte is the "best for" tokenizing sensitive data, given its robust data privacy features that allow businesses to maintain usability of the data while ensuring privacy.
Standout Features & Integrations:
Key features of Comforte include data tokenization, encryption, and secure data analytics. The tool is also capable of handling a variety of data types, making it versatile for different use cases.
Comforte offers integration capabilities with numerous databases and systems such as Oracle, SQL Server, and more, as well as cloud platforms like AWS, Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud.
Pricing:
Comforte's pricing begins at $20/user/month. The pricing may vary based on the additional functionalities required.
Pros:
- Strong data tokenization capabilities
- Versatility in handling different data types
- Wide array of integration options
Cons:
- The pricing model could be complex for some users
- It may require a learning curve for proper utilization
- Advanced features may come at an additional cost
8. Skyflow - Best for compliance with GDPR and other regulations
Skyflow is a data privacy vault that concentrates on assisting businesses to comply with GDPR and other stringent data regulations. By leveraging the principles of zero-trust data security and privacy by design, it provides a solid defense for sensitive data and helps organizations maintain regulatory compliance.
Why I Picked Skyflow:
I selected Skyflow for the list due to its specific focus on ensuring regulatory compliance, particularly GDPR. Its unique approach, encompassing privacy by design and zero-trust data security, distinguishes it from other tools. In my opinion, Skyflow is the best tool for businesses aiming to adhere to GDPR and other regulations because it's built to help organizations meet these specific challenges.
Standout Features & Integrations:
Skyflow's main features include data anonymization, encryption, and tokenization, as well as maintaining an immutable log of data usage. It also offers a Privacy API for developers, simplifying the process of building privacy into applications.
Skyflow integrates well with existing systems and popular platforms such as AWS, Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud, making it a flexible choice.
Pricing:
Skyflow offers its services starting from $30/user/month. It's important to note that additional costs may apply based on the number of data records and API calls.
Pros:
- Strong focus on GDPR and other regulatory compliance
- Offers Privacy API for developers
- Good integration with existing systems and cloud platforms
Cons:
- Pricing structure might be complicated for some
- May require technical expertise to leverage the full benefits
- The cost could escalate with the number of data records and API calls
9. PrimeFactors - Best for enterprise-level data encryption and key management
PrimeFactors offers an integrated suite of data encryption and key management solutions designed to provide enterprise-level security. Their software simplifies the task of securing data in transit and at rest, thereby boosting the organization's overall data protection measures. It is particularly well-suited to businesses that need to manage a large volume of encryption keys and secure data across complex networks.
Why I Picked PrimeFactors:
I picked PrimeFactors for this list based on its robust functionality aimed at enterprise-level operations. Its focus on both data encryption and key management sets it apart in the crowded field of data privacy tools.
I concluded that PrimeFactors is the best choice for businesses with intricate networks and a large volume of encryption keys to manage because it provides a comprehensive solution to these specific needs.
Standout Features & Integrations:
Key features of PrimeFactors include advanced data encryption, comprehensive key lifecycle management, and centralized control of encryption keys across diverse systems and environments. Moreover, PrimeFactors provides integrations with a wide variety of databases, applications, and cryptographic devices, ensuring it can fit into virtually any IT environment.
Pricing:
Pricing for PrimeFactors starts at $20/user/month (billed annually). Remember, the actual pricing may vary depending on the size and complexity of your enterprise needs.
Pros:
- Provides both data encryption and key management
- Can be integrated with a wide variety of systems and applications
- Well-suited to large, complex networks
Cons:
- It may be overkill for small businesses
- The user interface may not be as intuitive as some other tools
- Its cost might be prohibitive for businesses with smaller budgets
10. Microsoft SQL Server - Best for implementing data masking in SQL Server environments
Microsoft SQL Server is a robust relational database management system that provides advanced data security features, including dynamic data masking. This is especially beneficial for SQL Server environments where the protection of sensitive data is paramount. This tool makes it easy to implement data masking, a crucial privacy measure, directly in your SQL Server environment.
Why I Picked Microsoft SQL Server:
I chose Microsoft SQL Server for its seamless data masking capabilities and its integration within SQL Server environments. The native data masking feature is a distinctive trait that provides immense value, particularly for businesses already using Microsoft's SQL Server.
I determined that it's best for implementing data masking in SQL Server environments due to the direct integration and ease of use.
Standout Features & Integrations:
Microsoft SQL Server offers powerful data security features such as dynamic data masking and always-encrypted technology. Additionally, it provides seamless integration with other Microsoft products such as Azure, Power BI, and Microsoft Office, fostering an interconnected data management ecosystem.
Pricing:
Pricing for Microsoft SQL Server starts at $15/user/month. However, the exact pricing may vary depending on your specific needs and the scale of your operations.
Pros:
- Provides direct integration with SQL Server environments
- Offers powerful data masking capabilities
- Seamless interoperability with other Microsoft products
Cons:
- May not be suitable for non-SQL environments
- The cost might be prohibitive for smaller businesses
- It requires a learning curve, especially for users unfamiliar with Microsoft products
11. Baffle - Best for advanced encryption services for cloud-native applications
Baffle is a modern data protection solution that offers advanced encryption services. It's particularly useful for cloud-native applications, aiding in ensuring data privacy and security at all stages of the data processing pipeline. This tool's specialty in dealing with cloud-native applications justifies it being the best for this context.
Why I Picked Baffle:
I picked Baffle for its advanced, yet user-friendly, encryption services tailored for cloud-native applications. The tool's focus on cloud environments differentiates it from other data protection solutions.
Given the increasing use of cloud-native applications, Baffle's solution is pertinent. It's the "best for" advanced encryption services for such applications due to its ability to provide robust security without hampering application performance.
Standout Features & Integrations:
Baffle's AES encryption and advanced data de-identification capabilities allow it to protect sensitive data effectively. It integrates smoothly with cloud platforms such as AWS, Google Cloud, and Microsoft Azure, allowing businesses to maintain their current cloud infrastructure while enhancing their data security.
Pricing:
Pricing for Baffle starts from $10/user/month. Bear in mind that this is a starting point, and the final cost will depend on your specific needs and usage.
Pros:
- Specializes in cloud-native application security
- Offers advanced encryption services
- Smooth integration with popular cloud platforms
Cons:
- Might not be the best fit for non-cloud environments
- The cost could be high for small organizations
- Setup and usage may require some technical understanding
12. Informatica Cloud Data Masking - Best for protecting data in cloud-based applications and platforms
Informatica Cloud Data Masking is a security tool that helps protect sensitive data within cloud-based applications and platforms. It achieves this by replacing the original data with fictitious yet realistic data, making it useful in situations where data protection is paramount. The tool's capability of securing data in cloud environments makes it best for such applications and platforms.
Why I Picked Informatica Cloud Data Masking:
I chose Informatica Cloud Data Masking because of its specialization in data masking for cloud applications and platforms. What makes it stand out from other tools is its comprehensive feature set that addresses a broad range of data privacy and protection needs.
In my judgment, it is the "best for" protecting data in cloud-based applications due to its ability to mask data seamlessly, thus ensuring data privacy without disrupting the overall function of the applications.
Standout Features & Integrations:
Informatica Cloud Data Masking offers a variety of key features such as dynamic data masking, persistent data masking, and data subsetting. The tool integrates well with cloud platforms like Amazon Web Services, Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud, which enhances its utility in cloud-based environments.
Pricing:
The pricing for Informatica Cloud Data Masking begins at $50/user/month. Please note that this is the basic cost and the final pricing can vary based on the specific services and volume of data you need to protect.
Pros:
- Specializes in data masking for cloud applications and platforms
- Comprehensive set of features for data privacy and protection
- Supports integration with major cloud platforms
Cons:
- The cost may be prohibitive for smaller organizations
- Might not be the best fit for organizations not heavily invested in cloud technologies
- May require technical expertise for setup and optimal usage
Other Data Masking Software Tools
Below is a list of additional data masking software that I shortlisted but did not make it to the top 12. Definitely worth checking them out.
- Oracle Enterprise Manager - Good for comprehensive management of Oracle environments
- Test Data Management (Legacy) - Good for automating and managing test data in legacy systems
- Oracle Data Safe - Good for enhancing Oracle database security
- Microsoft Azure SQL Database - Good for managing and scaling cloud SQL databases
- Voltage Data Security - Good for advanced encryption services for sensitive data
- Broadcom Test Data Manager - Good for test data management in continuous testing environments
- Satori Security Data Platform - Good for data masking in real-time data streams
- Oracle Data Masking and Subsetting - Good for protecting Oracle database subsets
- VGS Platform - Good for maintaining data security in compliance-heavy industries
- Delphix DevOps Data Platform - Good for data operations in DevOps environments
- DataSunrise - Good for database security in various DBMS environments
- IRI FieldShield - Good for protecting data in flat-file databases
- IBM InfoSphere Optim Data Privacy - Good for managing data privacy across IBM systems
- AWS Dataguise DgSecure - Good for securing sensitive data in AWS environments
- HushHush Data Masking - Good for comprehensive data masking features for all kinds of data
Selection Criteria for Data Masking Software
When it comes to data masking software, there are several crucial factors that I considered while trying out more than a dozen tools. The focus here was on functionality, key features, and usability, given how important these aspects are for ensuring data security and operational efficiency.
Core Functionality
- Data Masking: The software should enable you to hide sensitive information effectively and reliably.
- Data Subsetting: The ability to create useful subsets of databases for testing or development is essential.
- Encryption: Tools should provide strong encryption capabilities to secure data at rest, in transit, or in use.
- Compliance Management: The software should help with compliance with various data privacy regulations like GDPR, CCPA, etc.
Key Features
- Dynamic Data Masking: Real-time data masking capability allows for added flexibility and ensures data is protected even when in use.
- Automation: The tool should allow for automated workflows to increase operational efficiency.
- Integration: The ability to integrate with a variety of databases and applications is a must.
- Reporting: Detailed reports help in understanding how data is being masked, used, and accessed.
Usability
- Intuitive Interface: The tool should have a user-friendly interface, making it easier to navigate, set up masking rules, and perform other tasks.
- Onboarding Process: An easy onboarding process with the availability of tutorials, guides, and documentation is essential, especially for complex software like data masking tools.
- Role-based Access: For this type of software, it's crucial to have an easy-to-configure role-based access control, to ensure only authorized users have access to sensitive data.
- Reliable Support: Timely and knowledgeable customer support can be invaluable, especially when dealing with potential data security issues.
People Also Ask
What are the benefits of using data masking software?
Using data masking software provides a variety of benefits including:
- Enhanced Data Security: By hiding sensitive information, these tools help protect against data breaches.
- Compliance with Regulations: These tools ensure that your data management practices comply with data protection regulations like GDPR and CCPA.
- Facilitating Safe Testing and Development: Data masking allows for the creation of realistic, yet non-sensitive data sets that can be safely used for testing or development purposes.
- Protection of Customer and Employee Data: Ensuring that sensitive information, such as customer or employee details, is always protected boosts confidence in your organization.
- Simplification of Data Management: By automating data masking tasks, these tools can save time and resources.
How much do data masking tools typically cost?
Pricing for data masking tools varies widely depending on the specific tool, its features, and your organization's needs. Typically, you can expect to pay anywhere from $20 to several hundred dollars per user per month.
What are the typical pricing models for data masking tools?
Most data masking tools follow a subscription-based pricing model, where you pay a recurring fee, usually monthly or annually, for access to the software. This fee typically scales with the number of users and the level of service.
What is the range of pricing for data masking tools?
The price range for data masking tools can vary significantly based on the complexity of the tool, the size of the organization, and the volume of data to be masked. The starting price can be as low as $20 per user per month and can go up to several hundred dollars for more comprehensive solutions.
Which are the cheapest and most expensive data masking software?
While it's hard to definitively say which software is the cheapest or most expensive due to varying feature sets and pricing models, generally, tools like HushHush Data Masking are on the more affordable end, while premium offerings like Oracle Data Masking and Subsetting tend to be more expensive.
Are there any free data masking tools available?
Yes, there are some data masking tools that offer free versions or trials. However, these usually come with limited features and capabilities. For full functionality, a paid plan is typically required. Examples of tools with free options include Microsoft SQL Server's basic features and the limited trial of Informatica Cloud Data Masking.
Other Data Security Software Reviews
Summary
In conclusion, selecting the right data masking software is a significant decision that can greatly affect an organization's data privacy and security strategy. The best choice for your organization depends on a range of factors including your specific use case, required functionality, integration needs, and budget.
Key takeaways:
- Understand Your Needs: Define what you specifically need from a data masking tool. Is it for compliance purposes, to facilitate safe testing, or to enhance overall data security? Understanding this will help narrow down your options.
- Evaluate Core Functionality and Key Features: Ensure the software you choose has the core functionality you need. Check for essential features like dynamic data masking, static data masking, and data subsetting. Also, look out for additional features that may enhance usability and efficiency such as role-based access control, an intuitive interface, and a well-structured onboarding process.
- Consider Pricing and Value: Price is an important factor but should not be the sole determinant of your decision. Consider the value each tool offers in relation to its cost. Even if a tool is more expensive, it may provide greater functionality, better security, or more efficient workflows that make it worth the higher price.
What Do You Think?
I hope this guide proves helpful as you navigate the process of choosing the best data masking software for your organization. Remember, the ideal solution not only aligns with your organization's specific needs but also supports your broader data management and security strategy.
If there's a tool that you've found particularly effective and think should be on this list, please do let me know. I’m always eager to hear about innovative solutions that can help organizations better protect their data and achieve their business goals. Your input can help make this resource even more useful for others in search of the right data masking solution.