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Be Honest: Have you ever connected personal devices to the work Wi-Fi without permission? Most of us have done so without even thinking about it. The use of unauthorized and unmanaged applications or devices is known as Shadow IT and poses a significant threat to the security and integrity of sensitive data stored on corporate networks.
This includes unauthorized hardware, software, and cloud services not approved or monitored by the organization’s IT department. Such practices can compromise the confidentiality, availability, and overall reliability of critical information systems, leading to severe consequences for the business and its stakeholders.
Therefore, it is essential for companies to implement robust policies and procedures to detect, prevent, and mitigate Shadow IT risks.
Your organization will probably take measures to ensure that work technology is secure and protected against potential risks. Still, they cannot protect the software you install without their knowledge, or outside devices you add to the network.
Have you considered the security of your personal devices?
- Are they equipped with firewalls and reliable antivirus software to safeguard against potential threats?
- Do you regularly release updates and patches?
- Are you the only one who uses your personal devices?
- Do your kids or grandkids use them?
- Do you know how they use them and what they use them for?
- These are the kind of questions that keep cyber security professionals up at night!
It’s essential to take necessary precautions to ensure your personal devices are as secure as your work technology.
It’s essential to exercise caution when using unapproved software and services. They may not have the necessary security measures in place and could potentially violate data protection laws and industry regulations. This puts them at risk of cyber attacks, which can be very damaging.
Typical forms of Shadow IT include…
- Cloud storage like Dropbox and Google Drive
- Productivity apps like Trello, Slack, Asana, Canva
- Mobile apps
- Physical devices like flash drives and external drives
- Personal devices
- Communication tools like instant messaging or video conferencing like Skype and VOIP
Using Shadow IT can have practical disadvantages. When you use services that your coworkers don’t have access to, you can make collaboration on projects difficult, if not impossible. Working together and sending projects to your boss can become inefficient and arduous.
It’s essential to have a policy regarding the use of outside devices and software in the workplace. However, this doesn’t necessarily mean that employers should prohibit them. The policy should be developed in collaboration with the IT and cyber security team, and proper processes should be established to ensure compliance with the guidelines.
Bring your devices into the light…don’t play with Shadow IT!
Are you concerned about the safety and security of your organization? You can rely on Commonwealth Sentinel to help you reduce risk and ensure the well-being of everyone involved.
Our services include software and hardware solutions, training, and policy implementation. Book a free, private consultation with our advisors to discuss your concerns. This service is free and could provide valuable insights for you. Click here to schedule a consultation, or contact us at (502) 234-5554.