Shadow IT

What Is Shadow IT?

Shadow IT is a term used to describe the use of information technology (IT) systems, applications, and services that are not approved or managed by an organization's IT department. It is often used to refer to the use of unauthorized software, hardware, or services that employees use to perform their work tasks without the knowledge or approval of the IT department.

Description

Shadow IT can pose significant security risks to an organization, as unauthorized systems and applications may not be properly secured or monitored. It can lead to data breaches, compliance violations, and other security incidents. The rise of Shadow AI — the unsanctioned use of AI tools and large language models by employees — represents one of the fastest-growing forms of Shadow IT in enterprise environments today.

Usage and Examples

Shadow IT can take many forms, including the use of unauthorized cloud storage services, personal devices for work purposes, or unapproved software applications. Examples of Shadow IT include employees using personal Dropbox accounts to store work files, or using unauthorized messaging apps to communicate with colleagues. Organizations can mitigate the risks of Shadow IT by implementing strong access controls, monitoring network traffic, and educating employees about the risks of using unauthorized systems.