Shadow IT describes instances where employees use cloud services without approval from their organization’s IT department. With the rise and broader acceptance of AI technologies, the term “Shadow AI” is also becoming increasingly common. As highlighted in the “Guidelines on Information Security Policy for Local Governments,” shadow IT presents significant security risks that must be properly managed, even within municipal organizations. Effective management of shadow IT not only strengthens security but also supports safer digital transformation (DX) initiatives.

A highly effective solution is deploying a Cloud Access Security Broker (CASB). This session will provide a detailed overview of CASB’s role and the advantages it can offer.

■ Role and Features of CASB

CASB is a specialized security tool for managing and controlling cloud service usage, providing several critical functions:

Visibility:

CASB monitors cloud service activity to identify shadow IT. Knowing who is accessing which cloud platforms allows organizations to detect and address potential security vulnerabilities.

Control and Management:

By working with proxies, CASB restricts access to unauthorized or high-risk cloud applications and applies appropriate security policies to users, helping to protect organizational assets.

Data Protection:

CASB enhances data security by monitoring data traffic and detecting abnormal activities when information is stored in the cloud. This helps prevent leaks of sensitive information and ensures proper data governance.

■ Benefits of CASB Implementation for Local Governments

Adopting CASB provides the following key benefits for local governments:

• Stronger Security and Regulatory Compliance: With highly sensitive data, municipalities can comply with laws such as the Personal Information Protection Act by using CASB. • Improved Transparency and Audit Capability: By visualizing shadow IT, internal audits and regulatory reporting become more efficient and straightforward. • Enhanced Flexibility: CASB enables the secure adoption of new cloud solutions, supporting technological progression and work reform with adaptable policies. Leveraging CASB allows local governments to mitigate the risks posed by shadow IT, ensuring a safe cloud environment and helping them achieve their information security objectives.