Shadow IT refers to IT systems, devices, or software used within an organization without the knowledge or approval of the IT department. This can include cloud services, third-party apps, or even subdomains created by employees for convenience. While often well-intentioned, Shadow IT can bypass security protocols, leaving domains exposed to risks such as data breaches or malware.
Importance of detecting Shadow IT
Unmanaged Shadow IT can undermine an organization’s security posture in several ways:
Security Gaps: Unauthorized services may lack proper encryption or updates, creating entry points for cyberattacks.
Compliance Risks: Hidden assets can violate industry regulations, leading to legal or financial penalties.
Data Exposure: Unmonitored applications might inadvertently share sensitive information.
Operational Blind Spots: Without awareness, IT teams cannot ensure consistent performance or security across all domain assets.
Detect Shadow IT
Discover Shadow IT allows users to identify unauthorized or untracked domain activities. The process is straightforward, with options to create new searches or review existing ones.
From the menu, go to Attack Surface Mapping > Potential Vulnerabilities > Discover Shadow IT.
Click Create New + to initiate a new query.
Specify a domain or use wildcards to broaden the search (e.g., *.example.com). The application displays previous searches, such as Example: X Brand Sha..., hubspot.com shadow l..., and silentpush.com shado..., which can be explored for insights into known Shadow IT instances.
Results may include associated IP addresses, first-seen and last-seen timestamps, and other metadata (as seen in the Hosting Infrastructure - IPs section), helping identify unauthorized services or devices.
The tool leverages Silent Push’s extensive DNS and IP data to flag potential Shadow IT, offering a clear view of unapproved activities tied to a domain. Embracing this proactive approach ensures a robust defense against the silent dangers of Shadow IT, safeguarding your digital presence.