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Shadow IT

Security

Data Classification BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) Access Control Information Security

Tools people use without official approval.

Definition

Shadow IT is when people use apps or services that the organization hasn’t approved.

In plain English Tools people use without official approval.

Why this matters

Why it matters: Unapproved tools can leak data or bypass security controls.

Example

Example: Uploading school documents to a personal file-sharing app because it’s “easier.”