Defining Shadow Access in IAM Security

This document is a technical report that defines Shadow Access, an emerging challenge in Identity and Access Management (IAM) security. It outlines how Shadow Access refers to unintended or undesired access to resources such as applications, networks, and data, particularly in cloud environments. The report discusses the background of Shadow Access, emphasizing its rise due to the growth of cloud computing and DevOps practices. It explains the complexities introduced by cloud identities and the processes that lead to Shadow Access, including the proliferation of cloud services and the lack of governance in identity creation. The document also details the significant impacts of Shadow Access, highlighting that existing tools often fail to detect these identities and access pathways, leading to potential data breaches and compliance issues. The report concludes by summarizing the need for organizations to address these vulnerabilities to maintain a secure cloud environment.