Shadow apps [1] [2], a subset of Shadow IT [1] [2], present significant security risks to organizations due to their unauthorized nature and lack of essential protections.
Description
Shadow apps [1] [2], whether standalone or integrated with approved systems [2], can result in data breaches, compliance violations [2], and increased attack surfaces [2]. Employees using shadow apps may mishandle sensitive data [2], leading to potential leaks or unauthorized access [1] [2]. These apps often lack essential protections like MFA and SSO [1], increasing the risk of data breaches and unauthorized access. Standalone shadow apps operate independently from the company’s IT ecosystem [1], while integrated shadow apps connect with approved systems [1], creating a gateway for threat actors [1]. Additionally, shadow apps may not comply with security protocols [1], further increasing the risk of data leaks and regulatory violations [1]. SaaS Security Posture Management (SSPM) tools are essential for detecting shadow apps by monitoring configurations [1], users [1], and devices [1], as well as integrating with email security systems and browser extensions for precise detection [1]. Proactive management of shadow apps is crucial to secure the SaaS stack and mitigate potential risks.
Conclusion
The presence of shadow apps poses serious security threats to organizations, necessitating proactive management strategies. By utilizing SSPM tools and implementing robust security measures, organizations can effectively detect and mitigate the risks associated with shadow apps [2]. Failure to address these risks may result in data breaches, compliance issues, and unauthorized access [1] [2], highlighting the importance of managing shadow apps to safeguard organizational data and systems.
References
[1] https://thehackernews.com/2024/09/shining-light-on-shadow-apps-invisible.html
[2] https://vulners.com/thn/THN:9E095740088483E198177EE92176676F
