Shadow IT: Do you know how your organization could be at risk?

Despite being a very common consequence these days, due to BYOD, Shadow IT poses many risks for organizations around the world.

The use of tools and devices not approved by the information technology team can open the door to attacks, in addition to the chances of data leaks. Therefore, it is necessary to be attentive.

What is Shadow IT?

The term Shadow IT refers to the use of devices, software and applications that are not authorized by the organization to be used. In this way, it can be understood as a practice of people.

Currently, the use of services and tools that are not official can be a big reality within organizations. Thus, even if some tools are not expressly authorized for use, they can be useful and make work more productive.

We can cite some examples of this practice, such as the use of cloud services and messaging applications that are not authorized and monitored by the information security team.

Risks that Shadow IT can cause

Shadow IT can create some risks of digital security breaches, which can lead to data leaks and financial loss. Therefore, you need to understand the possible dangers that this practice can bring to your organization.

Vulnerabilities

Within organizations, every type of solution and device must be managed by the information technology sector. This way, any attempted attack or leak can be detected faster, allowing for immediate action.

However, that doesn't happen when people prefer to use unmonitored systems or devices to manipulate corporate data.

Another important factor is exposure to risks caused by the lack of software updates. Typically, the team responsible for technology resources also has the responsibility to keep devices and systems up to date.

As the IT team is not aware of the use of some tools, it is not possible to discover all the unprotected sectors.

Without knowing it, you may be opening a security breach in your organization. This can create gateways for criminals who access vulnerable devices to carry out ransomware attacks and hijack information.

How to Mitigate Shadow IT Risks

In order to deal with Shadow IT risks, it is very important that those responsible for information security are aware of the unauthorized tools used within the corporate environment.

Thus, it is essential to build a dialogue between the sectors. This should act as a way to acquire information about what services and tools can be adopted. In addition, it can also bring formality to parallel solutions and improve internal tools.

It is worth remembering that the licensing of applications approved by organizations can save resources. In this way, managing these solutions brings legal and financial benefits.

Another important point is the control of device and application inventory. This management is important for auditing and cost monitoring purposes. Which is also a way to mitigate risks related to digital security.

Adopt safe practices

One of the strategies to mitigate risks with Shadow IT is to adopt methods that ensure people keep their applications and operating systems up to date. In addition to improving performance, updates can fix security vulnerabilities from previous versions.

It is also important to adopt tools that control device access to the organization's systems and information. Through our campaign management tool, it is possible to identify if training is being accessed on devices approved and authorized by the information security team.

Finally, establishing double-factor authentication to access corporate data and systems is protection against cyber threats. This can protect users from possible password leaks.

Therefore, it is essential to make everyone aware of the importance of adopting strong passwords and secure methods, as well as keeping systems up to date. Learn more about our solutions for triggering and managing training campaigns by carrying out a Proof of Value.