South African cyber security experts are urging businesses to stop trying to eliminate Shadow AI and instead focus on managing it through better governance, visibility and employee education.
According to the Institute of Information Technology Professionals South Africa (IITPSA) SIGCyber, employees are increasingly using unauthorised AI tools to boost productivity, often without realising the risks of exposing sensitive company data.
Experts say organisations should provide approved AI platforms, introduce clear AI usage policies, strengthen data protection measures and educate staff on responsible AI use, rather than relying on outright bans.
They also recommend monitoring which AI tools are being used across the business and applying risk-based governance to balance innovation with cyber security and regulatory compliance.
Main Image: 2KR IT Solutions
