---
title: Creating a Masking Method
slug: kron-dam-reference-guide-3-8-1/creating-a-masking-method
description: Learn how to define a masking method for databases using SQL Proxies with this step-by-step guide. Navigate to the SQL Proxy Policy in the Policy Control section and access the Masking Method tab. Enter the masking details, including name, description, co
docTags: 
createdAt: 2022-08-01T16:43:18.000Z
---

A masking method must be defined for the related database types to apply masking policies to databases when using SQL Proxies.

1. Navigate to **Database Activity Monitoring > Masking Method.**
2. Click the +**Add **button.
3. Inside the pop-up, enter the **Method Name.**
4. In the Rules, enter **Method Pattern**, **Database Type**, and** Column Type.**
5. Click **Save.**

![](https://api.archbee.com/api/optimize/g9cApVza9NIhSh0pjZYtA/pEbHIVVKDNnouU2s5oL-9_image.png "Masking Method")

**Masking Pattern:** Masking functions should be defined in a Java regex pattern. Some patterns are defined by default.


**Database Type:** Masking functions set in the masking pattern field vary for each database. The correct Database type selection is required to apply masking.


**Column Type:** The masking policy is applied according to the column type. The correct column type selection is required to apply masking.


**Hide Column:** The checkbox allows columns to be hidden for any applied method.