How do security gateways neutralize payloads?

Payload neutralization modifies dangerous content while preserving legitimate functionality. Techniques include: stripping macros from documents, converting files to safe formats (PDF flattening), and disarming active content.

Content Disarm and Reconstruction (CDR) is a specific technique: deconstructing files, removing potentially dangerous elements, and rebuilding clean versions. Users receive functional documents without embedded threats.

Trade-offs exist: neutralization may break legitimate functionality, some file types can't be effectively neutralized, and users may receive modified documents they don't expect. Balance security against usability for your organization's needs.