Shadow SaaS is a subset of Shadow IT that specifically refers to the unauthorized use of Software as a Service (SaaS) applications within an organization. Employees or departments may subscribe to and use various SaaS tools without the knowledge or approval of the IT department. This can happen due to the ease of adopting cloud-based services, often requiring just a credit card and an email address. While Shadow SaaS can enhance productivity and agility, it introduces several risks, including data security concerns, compliance violations, and potential data loss when employees leave the organization. Managing Shadow SaaS involves implementing discovery tools to identify unsanctioned SaaS usage, establishing clear policies for SaaS adoption, and providing officially sanctioned alternatives that meet user needs while maintaining security and compliance standards.
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Learn more about Nudge Security's approach to Shadow SaaS →