> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://guides.mangoapps.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://guides.mangoapps.com/admin-guide/compliance/ediscovery/create-a-hold.md).
# Create a Hold
### Overview
An eDiscovery hold preserves specific digital content for legal, compliance, or investigative purposes. By placing a hold, admins ensure that selected records cannot be deleted or modified, allowing for future review and retrieval.
***
### Creating a New Hold
Click the **Create a New Hold** button located in the top right of the window. This will bring up the **Create New Hold** menu.
Provide a **name** and **description** for the hold.
Click the **Next** button to proceed to the next step, **Query**.
**Set the Date Range**
Choose the time period for which data should be preserved. This ensures that only relevant content is retained.
The start and end date **must** be within 365 days of each other.
***
**Define Search Criteria**
Refine the scope of the hold by specifying one or more of the following criteria:
* **Keywords**: Enter terms or phrases (for example, sensitive terms like *passport* or *credit card numbers*).
* **Posted By**: Filter content by a specific author.
* **Team or Location**: Select where the hold should apply.
***
**Choose Item Types**
Select the types of content to be placed on hold: Posts, Updates, Messages, Chats, Files, Questions
{% hint style="info" %}
For messages and chats, any message that matches the search criteria will trigger preservation and export of the **entire conversation history** for that chat.
{% endhint %}
***
**Review and Finalize**
Click **Next** to proceed to the Review step. Make sure all data entered is correct as **holds cannot be edited once created.**
Click the **Create New Hold** button to complete the setup.
Your eDiscovery hold is now active and preserving the specified data.
***
### Next Steps
* To manage existing holds, navigate to the eDiscovery dashboard.
* Modify or release holds as necessary to comply with legal or regulatory requirements.
* Monitor data retention policies to ensure proper compliance with company and industry standards.
---
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