Applying Litigation Hold on Mailboxes in Microsoft 365
When it comes to managing legal holds and ensuring data preservation in Microsoft 365, understanding how to apply litigation hold on mailboxes is crucial for compliance and e-discovery purposes. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the intricacies of setting up and managing litigation hold on mailboxes within the Microsoft 365 environment.
What is Litigation Hold?
Litigation hold, also known as legal hold, is a feature in Microsoft 365 that allows organisations to preserve mailbox content related to a particular legal case or investigation. By placing a mailbox on litigation hold, you ensure that all data within that mailbox is retained and cannot be altered or deleted, even if the user attempts to do so.
Applying Litigation Hold in Microsoft 365
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to apply litigation hold on mailboxes in Microsoft 365:
- Access the Microsoft 365 Security & Compliance Center.
- Go to ‘Information governance’ and then ‘Retention’.
- Click on ‘Create’ and select ‘Create a case’.
- Enter the details of the case, including a name and description.
- Specify the mailboxes that need to be placed on hold.
- Set the retention policy duration for the hold.
- Review and confirm the settings to apply litigation hold.
Managing Litigation Hold
Once litigation hold has been applied to mailboxes, it’s essential to effectively manage and monitor the hold to ensure compliance. Regularly review the hold settings, monitor any changes or updates to the case, and be prepared to release the hold once the legal matter is resolved.
Benefits of Using Litigation Hold
Implementing litigation hold on mailboxes in Microsoft 365 offers several benefits, including:
- Ensuring data preservation and integrity for legal purposes.
- Complying with legal and regulatory requirements for data retention.
- Facilitating e-discovery processes by retaining relevant mailbox content.
Conclusion
Effectively applying litigation hold on mailboxes in Microsoft 365 is essential for organisations to meet legal and compliance obligations. By following the steps outlined in this guide and understanding the importance of managing litigation hold, businesses can safeguard their data and ensure readiness for any legal proceedings.

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