Safeguarding Against the Shadow AI Threat: Tools and Strategies
As artificial intelligence continues to weave its way into everyday business operations, security teams are taking note of the need to combat what’s being dubbed “shadow AI.” Much like shadow IT, where employees use unauthorized technology tools, shadow AI represents unregulated usage of AI technologies without proper oversight. To tackle these challenges effectively, agencies should start with a thorough inventory of their IT environment that includes all AI applications.
“Creating an up-to-date inventory of AI models and technologies is vital for understanding the landscape,” says Herckis. “Automated AI security posture management (AI-SPM) tools, like Wiz’s AI-SPM, play a critical role here, helping agencies achieve this goal.”
Once security teams have cataloged AI technologies, they need to implement robust controls. This step mirrors the controls placed on any other technology in the agency.
“Setting appropriate permissions ensures that the right people have access to sensitive data,” Herckis explains. “This is crucial because agencies must protect sensitive information from unwanted mingling with other data in AI processes. Identifying and isolating AI technologies is a key step forward.”
Moreover, AI-SPM tools such as CrowdStrike Falcon Cloud Security AI-SPM automate threat detection and risk management. They enable organizations to mitigate risks in real time, while also preventing unauthorized tools from slipping into the ecosystem. According to our findings in the 2024 State of AI in Cybersecurity survey, a considerable number of cybersecurity professionals affirm that the integration of safety and privacy controls is a cornerstone for fully realizing generative AI’s potential, signaling the importance of governance for a secure AI framework.
Creating Comprehensive AI Use Policies
Aside from employing security tools to oversee AI-related threats, establishing clear policies and governance is equally important. The objective isn’t to ban AI outright but to create guidelines that enhance safe usage while maximizing its benefits.
“Agencies should develop a well-defined AI policy that is communicated throughout the organization to set expectations,” Mushegian states. “It should be framed from a risk-based perspective, ideally crafted by the agency’s legal head, detailing how AI should be utilized responsibly.” Moreover, the policy should require that users adhere to the agency’s supply chain protocols when accessing AI tools.
Forming a steering committee focused on AI could also provide insight into its use cases and the associated concerns within the organization.
“Implementing an AI council allows agencies to gather diverse opinions and needs from across the organization. It’s valuable for leadership to understand what teams require,” Mushegian suggests. Engaging heads from security, product, and legal teams in these discussions ensures a well-rounded approach.
It’s essential for leadership to remember that while AI holds significant potential, it also comes with risks. Employees will naturally adopt the best tools available to them—whether sanctioned or not. The challenge for agency leaders is to provide secure pathways to leverage AI effectively.
“Leadership bears the responsibility to equip employees with appropriate tools,” Herckis observes. “Much like shadow IT, if the right resources aren’t provided, employees will find alternatives, creating a risky environment. Implementing a secure onboarding process for tools is essential to give employees the resources they need to succeed while ensuring organizational security.”
As we look ahead, it’s clear that AI’s role in our workplaces will only grow. By proactively addressing the shadow AI phenomenon and empowering employees through structured policies and safeguards, agencies can harness the incredible power of AI safely.
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