Asset Visibility and Shadow IT Detection

What is Shadow IT?

Shadow IT refers to the unauthorized use of technology within an organization, bypassing the oversight of the IT and security teams. This covers stuff like employees using their own devices for work, signing up for cloud tools without getting the ok, or installing software that hasn’t been checked for security issues. Even though people usually do this to get more done or avoid slow company processes, it can lead to some serious repercussions.

What Are the Different Aspects of Shadow IT?

Shadow IT covers all IT-related activities and purchases that happen without the IT department’s involvement. This can include:

• Hardware: Servers, PCs, laptops, tablets, and smartphones
• Off-the-Shelf Software: Pre-packaged software solutions
• Cloud Services: Such as Software as a Service (SaaS), Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS), and Platform as a Service (PaaS)

What Is the Most Common Form of Shadow IT?

The most common type of shadow IT is the use of cloud services, particularly Software as a Service (SaaS). With so many apps and services available, employees often download and use them without getting approval from their IT department.

What Are the Benefits of Shadow IT SaaS?

Shadow IT SaaS allows users to quickly and easily access tools that boost their productivity and improve collaboration with colleagues and partners.

What Is a Shadow IT Application?

A shadow IT application is any software that a department or individual uses for work without involving the IT team. These applications generally fall into three main categories:

• Cloud-Based Applications: Accessed directly from the corporate network.
• Connected Cloud Applications: Accessed using OAuth tokens, which rely on credentials from core SaaS applications like Microsoft Office 365 or Google Workspace.
• Off-the-Shelf Software: Purchased and installed by a department or individual. This type is less common now due to the popularity of SaaS solutions.

What Is the Risk from Network-Accessed Shadow IT Applications?

With the rise of consumer-driven IT, hundreds of these applications are commonly used in typical enterprises. The lack of oversight into these apps creates a significant security gap. While some applications are harmless, others offer features like file sharing, storage or collaboration, which can pose major risks to an organization and its sensitive data. IT and security departments need to be aware of which applications are in use and understand the risks they present.

How Redborder Safeguards Your Organization from Shadow IT Risks

With Redborder, you take control, detect risks in real-time, and protect your organization from the dangers of Shadow IT. Here’s how we do it:

• Real-Time Detection

Redborder’s NDR solution continuously monitors network traffic, identifying unauthorized applications and devices as soon as they attempt to connect. By analyzing data patterns, we catch potential Shadow IT threats before they can escalate.

• Comprehensive Network Visibility

Gain full visibility into all devices, applications, and connections across your network (Along with a friendly UI Asset Table). Redborder’s solution ensures you know exactly what’s happening in your environment, providing insights that help you detect and manage Shadow IT with precision.

• Proactive Response

When Redborder detects suspicious activity, it takes immediate action. Our system isolates potentially harmful behavior in real time, minimizing the risk of data breaches, malware, and unauthorized access before they can cause damage.

• Enforcing Security Policies

Control the use of unauthorized applications and devices with Redborder’s policy enforcement capabilities. We empower you to block unapproved technology from your network, ensuring only trusted solutions are used within your organization.

• Advanced Threat Intelligence

Redborder’s NDR integrates cutting-edge threat intelligence, enabling your security teams to stay ahead of potential risks. As new Shadow IT applications emerge, Redborder continuously updates to protect against known vulnerabilities and threats.

With Redborder, your organization gains complete control over the growing risk of Shadow IT. Our solution provides the visibility, detection, and automated response you need to safeguard your network and maintain a secure, compliant environment.