AI Agents Demand Stronger Governance to Prevent Data Risks

This is a guest blogpost by Fraser Dear, head of AI and innovation, BCN.

The Rise of AI Agents

AI agents are transforming workplaces by automating tasks like summarizing documents, searching through files, and drafting emails. While these tools boost productivity, they also introduce significant risks—especially when handling outdated, irrelevant, or confidential data. Organizations must balance efficiency with security to avoid unintended data exposure.

AI Agents vs. RPA

Unlike Robotic Process Automation (RPA), which follows strict predefined rules, AI agents powered by generative AI operate autonomously. They analyze context and intent, often pulling data from multiple sources—including Microsoft Power Platform and Copilot Studio. However, this flexibility comes with risks, as many lack built-in governance controls.

The Shadow IT Challenge

With tools like Copilot Studio, employees can easily create AI agents without IT oversight. This leads to shadow IT, where unauthorized agents access sensitive data—such as HR files or salary details—without proper permissions. Unchecked, these agents can spread misinformation or expose confidential data, violating GDPR and damaging trust.

Implementing Guardrails

To mitigate risks, organizations must:

• Apply the principle of least privilege to restrict data access.
• Conduct penetration testing to identify vulnerabilities.
• Monitor agent activity with real-time alerts.
• Educate employees on responsible AI use.

Conclusion

AI agents offer immense productivity gains, but without proper governance, they pose serious security threats. Proactive measures—such as strict access controls and regular audits—are essential to prevent breaches and maintain data integrity.