Shadow AI

Shadow AI occurs when employees independently use public or third-party AI tools for tasks such as writing, coding, research, analysis, or data processing without following organizational policies. These tools may process company information outside approved systems, creating potential security, privacy, compliance, and governance risks.

Shadow AI can make it difficult for organizations to know which AI tools are being used, what data is being shared, and where that information is processed or stored. Without visibility and appropriate controls, unauthorized AI usage can increase the risk of sensitive data exposure, policy violations, and unmanaged security threats.