Secure AI system discovery
What is Secure AI system discovery?
The process of finding, cataloguing and risk-assessing every AI system already in use across an organisation, including unapproved tools. A structured search for AI you already have. It covers three kinds: approved systems, AI features switched on inside existing software, and tools staff adopted themselves, known as shadow AI.
Each system found is recorded with its owner, vendor, purpose and data it handles, then given a risk rating. The result is a complete AI register, also called an AI inventory.
Why organisations need secure AI system discovery?
You can’t govern what you don’t know about. Staff can sign up for an AI tool with a work email in minutes, and vendors keep adding AI features to products you already own. Each one may send personal or confidential information outside your environment.
APRA’s April 2026 letter expects an inventory of AI tooling and use cases, and raises concern about staff using AI outside approved controls.
How to build secure AI system discovery?
- Scan sign-on, network and cloud logs for AI services.
- Check procurement and expense records for AI vendors.
- Survey teams to find out what AI tools they’re using (and for what) and review AI features in existing software.
- Record each system, including its owner, vendor, purpose and data.
- For each system: rate its risk, then either approve, restrict or retire. Repeat this process quarterly, at a minimum.
