Background
For some time it has been recognized that data can easily be hidden in Microsoft® office files. The possibility of sensitive data leakage becomes of great concern when government agencies are moving data from one security classification to another.
In 1991, as Dolphin Technology Inc., we began to address this concern with an integrated component of our cross domain development work performed under the sponsorship of the Air Force Research Laboratory/Information Directorate (AFRL/IF) for the Department of Defense (DoD) and the Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA). A basic Microsoft® Office file inspection application was fielded as an integrated component of a version of the Information Support Server Environment (ISSE) cross domain solution in 2002.
In 2003, AFRL/IF awarded Dolphin Technology a Phase I Small Business Innovative Research (SBIR) effort to further investigate the depth and breadth of this hidden data problem. Under this effort, Dolphin Technology investigated the problem, surveyed currently available tools and recognized that adequate tools were not available. We further evaluated the feasibility of developing a new capability to more completely address this complex problem. This investigation revealed a myriad of ways that data could be inadvertently or maliciously hidden in documents.
In June 2004, Dolphin Technology was awarded a Phase II SBIR effort to evolve the initial hidden data detection prototype and mature it for commercialization.
In August 2005, the initial release of our hidden data inspection capability called PuriFile was achieved. Select organizations within the US government were provided evaluation copies. Response to this early version of PuriFile was overwhelmingly favorable and as a result, many new features beyond the SBIR requirements were identified. Many of these increased detection features were incorporated into PuiFile because additional agencies stepped forward and supplemented the SBIR funding, thereby enabling us to address additional features beyond the scope of the SBIR.
In March 2006, Dolphin Technology released PuriFile V2.1 the first release to be offered commercially.
February, 2007, PuriFile was selected by Network World Magazine, Best Products Edition, for a Category Breaker Award. PuriFile was selected for it's advanced capability to detect security risks that users face when using Microsoft Office and to disclose those vulnerabilities.
August 27, 2007 - ITT Corporation announced it has agreed to acquire Dolphin Technology, Inc. Dolphin is a leader in the development of information assurance technologies that enable secure networks for military, intelligence and law enforcement customers. The acquisition significantly enhances ITT's portfolio in the cyber technology and intelligence markets.
November 14, 2007 SC Magazine announced that PuriFile has received a four star rating in the November issue of SC Magazine's Group Test on Data Leakage Prevention.
