As more and more companies move to the cloud, the need for cloud data security becomes increasingly critical. But just what is data security in cloud computing? Why does it matter? And is data truly safe in the cloud? We thought it would be prudent to come up with a simple guide to help answer some of these common questions.
What it is cloud data security?
Simply put, cloud data security refers to the measures an organization takes to keep data in the cloud secure. These measures could be anything from firewalls to encryption, and they ae critical to keeping sensitive data safe.
But why does it matter?
There are many types of security in cloud computing, but is cloud security worth the fuss? No question! Without strong security, a company’s sensitive data can get into the wrong hands, and the results can range from embarrassing to disastrous.
Take the 2017 Equifax breach, for example. This well-publicized event exposed 147 million people’s personal information and forced the credit bureau to pay hundreds of millions of dollars in damages. Earlier this year, the Capital One breach compromised 106 million people’s data. Unfortunately, if the past is any indication, it’s only a matter of time before the next big breach hits the headlines.
While Equifax and Capital One managed to survive the bad publicity and financial fallout their breaches caused, this resilience is unusual. One study found that 60% of all companies affected by a data breach file bankruptcy within six months. This is especially true for small-to medium-sized businesses. Without strong data security in cloud computing, companies risk falling prey to devastating breaches that could have possibly been prevented.
Also Read: Benefits of Cloud Managed Services
Cloud computing security issues and challenges
Considering what’s at stake, deploying the right types of security in cloud computing should be a no-brainer. However, many companies believe they’re too small or insignificant for hackers to target. They’re wrong. Other companies aren’t sure how to address common cloud computing security issues and challenges which can seem overwhelming. These include:
- Compliance issues: When it comes to storing data, companies in industries like banking and healthcare must abide by a strict set of guidelines. Ensuring full compliance is already a complicated task, but the job becomes even more difficult when they put their trust in a cloud service provider.
- Insecure interfaces and APIs: When a company partners with a cloud service provider, they rely on that provider’s software interface and application program interface (API) to manage their cloud service. However, a weak interface can expose the company to a variety of security issues and put their data at risk.
- Insider attacks: Even if a provider’s interface is rock solid, insider attacks are always a threat. All it takes is one bad employee to access client data and expose it to the world. That’s why it’s critical for cloud service providers to thoroughly screen their employees and for businesses to vet their providers carefully.
Is data truly safe in the cloud?
While no company is 100% safe from a breach, there are many cloud security technologies that can significantly reduce the risk. These include a top-notch perimeter firewall, internal firewalls, an intrusion detection system, data encryption, and much more. When all of this in place, data can safely reside in the cloud.
Need help?
When it comes to building a solid strategy with cloud security technologies, many companies aren’t sure where to start. That’s where an experienced consulting company comes in. The right consultant can assist with everything from layered security and data privacy to managing the cloud provider relationship and helping build a strategy to thwart attacks.
Don’t fall victim to a devastating data breach. Leverage the expertise and resources of an experienced cloud service provider to reduce risk and keep your data safe and secure.
