Detect and Remove Prohibited Software
with IT Asset Management

In today’s complex IT environment, maintaining security and compliance is an ongoing challenge for organizations. One of the most significant threats to security comes from prohibited or unauthorized software installed on endpoint devices. Such software can introduce vulnerabilities, increase compliance risks, and lead to inefficiencies. An IT Asset Management (ITAM) solution like Zecurit Asset Manager is critical for detecting, managing, and removing prohibited software, ensuring a secure and compliant IT environment.

The Importance of Prohibited Software Detection

Prohibited software can expose organizations to various risks, including:

• Security Vulnerabilities: Unauthorized applications may contain malware, spyware, or backdoors that compromise organizational data. For instance, a study revealed that 50% of data breaches involved unauthorized or unapproved applications, emphasizing the critical need for robust detection measures.

• Compliance Issues: Many industries have strict regulations that prohibit the use of unlicensed or unauthorized software.

• Performance Impact: Unnecessary applications can consume system resources, affecting overall performance and productivity.

• Operational Risks: Prohibited software can lead to system instability or interfere with legitimate business applications.

Detecting and removing such software is essential to maintain a secure, compliant, and efficient IT environment.

How ITAM Supports Prohibited Software Detection

ITAM solutions provide tools and features designed to identify and manage prohibited software across all devices in an organization. Zecurit Asset Manager delivers comprehensive capabilities to ensure that your environment remains secure and compliant.

1. Identifying Unauthorized Applications

Zecurit Asset Manager scans all endpoints to identify installed software and compares it against an approved software list. This list is maintained by IT administrators and can be updated regularly to reflect new organizational requirements, ensure compatibility, and account for software updates or replacements. Unauthorized or prohibited applications are flagged for review.

Example: The system detects an unauthorized file-sharing application installed on a company laptop, which is flagged for immediate removal.

Key Benefits:

• Comprehensive visibility into all installed applications.

• Automatic detection of unauthorized software.

• Reduced risk of shadow IT.

2. Real-Time Alerts and Notifications

When prohibited software is detected, Zecurit Asset Manager sends real-time alerts to IT administrators. This allows for prompt action to mitigate risks before they escalate.

Example: An alert is triggered when a prohibited media streaming application is installed on a work device, notifying administrators to address the issue.

Key Benefits:

• Instant notifications for faster response.

• Prevention of potential security breaches.

3. Automated Software Removal

Zecurit Asset Manager allows IT administrators to automate the removal of prohibited software, ensuring compliance and reducing manual intervention.

Example: The tool automatically uninstalls an unauthorized remote desktop application from multiple endpoints based on predefined policies.

Key Benefits:

• Saves time with automated actions.

• Ensures consistent policy enforcement.

4. Enforcing Compliance with Organizational Policies

Organizations can define and enforce software usage policies through ITAM tools. Zecurit Asset Manager ensures that only approved applications are allowed, reducing compliance risks.

Example: Administrators define a policy to block and report gaming software on corporate devices, ensuring adherence to company policies.

Key Benefits:

• Aligns software usage with company policies.

• Reduces the risk of audits and penalties.

5. Comprehensive Reporting and Auditing

Zecurit Asset Manager provides detailed reports on software usage, including information about prohibited applications. These reports are useful for audits, compliance checks, and strategic decision-making.

Example: Generate a report highlighting all devices with prohibited software, along with actions taken to remove them. For example, during an audit, such reports can demonstrate proactive compliance measures by showing how prohibited applications were identified and promptly removed, minimizing risks and ensuring adherence to regulations.

Key Benefits:

• Audit-ready reports for compliance verification.

• Insights into recurring software risks.

The Benefits of Prohibited Software Detection with ITAM

• Improved Security: Reduce vulnerabilities by eliminating unauthorized applications.

• Enhanced Compliance: Ensure adherence to industry regulations and internal policies.

• Operational Efficiency: Save time with automated software management.

• Better Resource Utilization: Prevent resource wastage caused by unnecessary software.

• Proactive Risk Management: Address software-related risks before they impact operations.

Conclusion

Prohibited software detection is a crucial use case for IT Asset Management tools like Zecurit Asset Manager. By leveraging real-time insights, automated removal processes, and robust compliance enforcement, IT administrators can transform the way they manage their software ecosystem. With Zecurit Asset Manager, you can proactively address risks, enhance operational efficiency, and ensure adherence to industry regulations, fostering a secure and optimized IT environment. Say goodbye to unauthorized applications and hello to peace of mind with Zecurit Asset Manager.