Purdue University Implements Sensitive & Restricted Labels in Microsoft 365 for Enhanced Data Security

Purdue University Northwest (PNW) has announced the implementation of "Sensitive" and "Restricted" labels within Microsoft 365, effective July 25, 2025. This initiative is a significant step in the university's ongoing efforts to enhance data security and compliance by facilitating the approved storage of sensitive and restricted information within secure SharePoint sites.
The introduction of these sensitivity labels is part of a phased approach that began in March 2025. During the initial phase, Purdue IT made several adjustments to the existing Microsoft 365 sensitivity labels:

• The "Public" sensitivity label was removed.
• The "General -> Anyone (unrestricted)" label was eliminated.
• The "General -> All Employees (unrestricted)" label was renamed to "General Data."

These changes were designed to streamline the labeling process and set the stage for the subsequent rollout of the "Sensitive" and "Restricted" labels. (it.purdue.edu)
The "Sensitive" and "Restricted" labels are intended to be applied to files and emails that contain sensitive or restricted data. This labeling mechanism serves multiple purposes:

• Data Classification: Clearly categorizing data based on its sensitivity level.
• Access Control: Ensuring that only authorized individuals can access certain information.
• Compliance: Adhering to regulatory requirements and university policies regarding data handling.

The implementation of these labels is a preparatory step before the release of the SharePoint restricted data solution, scheduled for later this summer. This solution will provide a secure environment within Microsoft 365 for storing and managing sensitive and restricted data, aligning with the university's commitment to data security and compliance.
In addition to these changes, Purdue IT has been working on consolidating the Microsoft 365 environments across its campuses. Plans are underway to migrate Purdue Fort Wayne and Purdue Northwest users to a single Purdue University System Microsoft 365 tenant during the 2025-26 academic year. This consolidation aims to facilitate easier file sharing and communication among users across different campuses. (it.purdue.edu)
Furthermore, Purdue IT has announced a planned migration from Google Workspace to Microsoft 365, set for spring 2026. This transition is intended to improve user experience and service integration, allowing for more seamless access to Microsoft 365 software for Purdue Northwest students. (pnw.edu)
To assist users in understanding and applying sensitivity labels, Microsoft provides comprehensive guidance on managing sensitivity labels in Office apps. This resource offers detailed instructions on how to apply labels to files and emails, ensuring that data is appropriately classified and protected. (learn.microsoft.com)
Purdue University Northwest's proactive approach to data security through the implementation of sensitivity labels and the consolidation of Microsoft 365 environments underscores its commitment to safeguarding sensitive information and enhancing collaboration across its campuses.

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Source: Purdue University Northwest Sensitive and Restricted Labels Added to Microsoft 365 - Purdue University Northwest