Taming Shadow IT: What Security Teams Can Do About Unapproved Apps and Extensions
Tripwire, Thursday, August 14th, 2025
Shadow IT is one of the most pressing issues in cybersecurity today. As more employees use unsanctioned browser extensions, productivity plugins, and generative AI tools, organizations are exposed to more risk.
When these tools enter the environment without IT's knowledge, they can create data exposure points, introduce new vulnerabilities, and make it easier for attackers to find privileged access paths. In many cases, the employee doesn't even realize the risk they've introduced.
Every app or extension installed on a corporate machine without being vetted carries risk. End users typically don't have the knowledge or skills necessary to make informed, risk-based decisions on behalf of the organization. That responsibility must sit with a security steering committee or advisory group that can properly assess the trade-offs of usability versus risk.