What Is Shadow IT?
Shadow IT refers to software, apps, and cloud services used within your organization without your IT team’s knowledge or approval. While employees often adopt these tools to be more efficient, they’re unintentionally exposing your network to significant vulnerabilities.
Common examples include:
- Using personal cloud storage (e.g., Google Drive or Dropbox)
- Signing up for unapproved task management tools
- Installing messaging apps on company devices
- Leveraging AI tools with unknown security backgrounds
Why Shadow IT Puts Your Business at Risk
You can’t protect what you don’t know exists. Without IT oversight, these tools create blind spots in your security strategy:
- Data Leakage
- Missed Security Updates
- Regulatory Noncompliance
- Phishing and Malware Entry Points
- No MFA protection
Why Do Employees Use These Tools in the First Place?
It’s rarely about defiance – most use Shadow IT to meet deadlines quickly or because they find company tools frustrating. They often don’t realize the risks. For example, a recent fraud operation involved 300+ rogue apps downloaded over 60 million times.
5 Ways to Rein in Shadow IT Before It Costs You
- Publish a ‘Safe to Use’ App Directory
- Set Guardrails on Devices
- Train Employees on the Risks
- Monitor for Unexpected App Traffic
- Invest in Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR)
Ready to Uncover the Apps Running Under Your Radar?
Start with a complimentary Security Assessment. We’ll help identify hidden vulnerabilities and tighten up your cybersecurity posture. Click here to book your FREE assessment and take the first step toward a more secure, informed workplace.
