How To Protect Your Business From Shadow IT

Shadow IT sounds scary right? It very well could be. It places many organizations at risk, and many employers and employees alike aren’t even aware they’re actually the threat. 

Many believe they are using IT technology and devices safely. But those with little knowledge or training may not know the activities and devices they’re using may have unintentionally hurt their organization. They believe their important business information and data will be protected. 

What is Shadow IT, and How Can You Protect Your Business From It?

Shadow IT is hardware, software and/or devices being used that aren’t known, recognized or otherwise supported by an organization’s IT department. Can you see the problem? We find this a lot with professionals working remotely, especially in this “new normal” where work-from-home and hybrid environments are just the way of doing business.

The cybersecurity risks today are absolutely immense without proper software and other internal and external precautions. Here’s how to protect your business from shadow IT.

Some Examples of Shadow IT

First, we must understand Shadow IT. Here are some examples:

• Using unauthorized personal devices to conduct business.
• Storing sensitive information in an unauthorized app.
• Using the free version of an app instead of paying for a version equipped with security parameters.

Shadow IT can improve employee productivity and drive innovation. It may cut corners – which is good for them but bad for business. It can introduce serious security risks to your organization through data leaks, potential compliance violations, and more.

From an IT professional’s point of view, shadow IT makes it incredibly difficult to effectively manage your company’s technology risk. 

How to Avoid the Risks from Shadow IT

Work closely with your IT department or managed IT provider, informing them of all technologies your company is using. With the whole picture, they can better evaluate the reality and create a system that will work best for you, your employees and the clients you serve. The fix may be as simple as giving your company new cybersecurity and password documentation software, or creating a safe vault for your information.

If you’re interested in learning more about managed IT and cybersecurity services, chat with the experts here at Acme Business. We work alongside noted cybersecurity partners like SentinelOne, as well as data management systems by Kyocera, among many other products and services. Acme Business owner James Finch, Jr. also leads his team with a Level 4 Security Awareness certification, the highest offered by the Criminal Justice Information Services.

Call Acme Business at (716) 372-1325 and connect with us on LinkedIn. Our experts can tailor services to your unique business needs.