Top 7 Cloud Computing Risks and Security Issues

Monica Morris • Feb 26, 2020

Historically, to run any service, application or store data, you must own a PC or server with the required computing power and software architecture. With the rapid development of cloud computing, this is no longer the case as a lightweight browser can be used to execute CPU intensive tasks or store large data without physical infrastructure.

Cloud computing involves the use of computing resources such as servers, databases, networks, and software in the cloud (internet). It allows businesses to use resources that will ordinarily be expensive or out of budget if developed in-house. 

With cloud computing, scaling and innovation is cheaper. However, the cloud also has security challenges. Some of these cybersecurity threats are similar to those found in traditional computing while others are peculiar to it. It is these security threats and risks that are preventing some organizations from fully embracing the cloud.

In this article, we will explore the risks and security issues with cloud computing for business.

1. Lack of Employee Awareness

While cybersecurity threats to the cloud are often about outside attackers. One aspect that is often overlooked is the degree of employees awareness and education about the cloud system and its security.

Your employees need to be well-trained about cybersecurity so as to minimize the human error aspect of system compromise. Attackers have long used phishing techniques for tricking employees into compromising their personal and organization system and cloud system is no different. When your employees know the nature of the threats and what to expect, they will be in a better position to fend off such attacks.

2. Targeted Malware Infections

Cloud services presents a novel cybersecurity threat. Attackers can take over a system resource by uploading malicious files on shared servers which may be accidentally executed by unsuspecting victims. Once a system is infected, cybercriminals can continue to access for a long time without leaving a trace of their activities. 

Hackers often upload malware which when downloaded can compromise a system. Employees can also be using the cloud to transfer business data so as to gain total control over them.

3. Regulatory Violations

Due to privacy concerns, many industries are under government regulatory policy such as HIPAA   which aim to protect sensitive data. The regulations mandate that a business knows where their data resides and restrict access to it. Businesses may not transfer customers’ data outside stipulated areas due to data privacy laws. Storing data on the cloud poses a risk of non-compliance due to the flexibility or ambiguity of storage location. A violation of such law may result in penalties and fines. 

4. Lack of Control

The use of cloud services implies that you will give control to third parties over your data. They will be responsible for managing your data and ensuring that it is available. While it is convenient to not worry about how your data is being stored or managed, there are also the risks of being a spectator in the case of an emergency. If the provider is attacked or suffers an outage, you can’t do anything about it as you have to wait for them to fix it. This can be detrimental to time-critical business. Also, you may not implement better protection for your data due to limitations imposed by your cloud service provider.

5. Insecure Mobile Devices

Employees are often encouraged to use their personal devices for work related activities both onsite and offsite which may include business cloud data and applications. Such devices may expose your business to security risks without you knowing. Cyber attackers who want to infiltrate a business may first compromise an employee’s system with the aim of gaining access to the target business’ cloud data.

6. No Auto-Backups

Some cloud computing services do not provide automatic backups. Since the cloud is often used for backup some users can be lured into the false thinking that their data is being backed up. This isn’t the case for some providers. If you lose your data to hackers or system glitches, you cannot get another copy unless you specifically set up a data backup yourself. In the event of a data loss, there is no safety net for retrieving such data. 

7. Use of Insecure Applications

No matter how secure your cloud provider system is, it can be compromised when accessed with insecure external applications and APIs. The applications that help employees to easily manage large data on the cloud may contain vulnerabilities that can be exploited by attackers to steal your data. Enforce policies that prevent employees from using random applications or submitting APIs to unvetted third party tools.

Cloud computing has huge potentials for a business, nevertheless, you can minimize the security risks by educating your employees, deploying auto backups, enforcing security rules and extending cyber security to employees devices. 

Cloud computing is the future of computing, start it with a strong cybersecurity policy. We can help to get you started today. 

Fort Wayne Indiana downtown
05 Jan, 2024
In an era where digital transformation is at its peak, businesses are increasingly vulnerable to cyber threats in Fort Wayne, Indiana. With cybercriminals becoming more sophisticated, local companies must avoid these threats to safeguard their digital assets. As cybersecurity experts, SDTEK is dedicated to helping Fort Wayne businesses fortify their defenses against these ever-evolving threats. Understanding the Cyber Threat Landscape in Fort Wayne Like many thriving urban areas, Fort Wayne is home to a diverse range of businesses. The variety of enterprises here makes the city a vibrant economic hub, from bustling tech startups to established manufacturing companies. However, this diversity also makes the area a target for cybercriminals. The most common threats include phishing attacks, ransomware, data breaches, and malware. Small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) are particularly vulnerable, often due to limited IT security resources. Recognizing these threats is the first step in building an effective defense strategy. Why Cybersecurity Matters More Than Ever for Local Businesses The consequences of cyber attacks can be devastating. They can lead to financial loss, damage to reputation, and legal implications if customer data is compromised. In today's interconnected world, the fallout from a security breach can extend far beyond the immediate damage, impacting customer trust and business continuity. Tailored Cybersecurity Strategies for Fort Wayne Businesses At SDTEK, we understand that there is no one-size-fits-all solution to cybersecurity. This is why we offer customized security strategies that cater to the specific needs of Fort Wayne businesses. Our approach includes: Risk Assessment: Evaluate your business's particular risks, considering factors unique to your industry and operational model. Employee Training: Empowering your staff with knowledge and best practices to recognize and prevent potential cyber threats. Implementing Robust Security Measures: This includes firewalls, anti-virus software, and secure Wi-Fi networks tailored to your business's specific needs. Regular Monitoring and Updates: Continuously monitor for threats and keep your security systems up-to-date to combat new and emerging threats. Best Practices for Cyber Hygiene In addition to tailored strategies, there are general best practices that every business in Fort Wayne can implement: Regularly update software and systems to patch vulnerabilities. Use strong, unique passwords and consider multi-factor authentication. Regularly back up data and store it securely. Establish a clear policy for handling sensitive data. Collaboration and Continuous Learning Cybersecurity is not a one-time effort but a continuous process. Collaboration between businesses and cybersecurity experts like SDTEK is crucial. We encourage Fort Wayne businesses to engage in local cybersecurity forums and workshops to stay informed about the latest threats and defenses. Conclusion In Fort Wayne, staying ahead of cyber threats is essential for the longevity and success of your business. By understanding the risks, implementing tailored strategies, and practicing good cyber hygiene, local businesses can significantly reduce their vulnerability to cyber-attacks. At SDTEK, we are committed to partnering with you in this journey, providing the expertise and support you need to protect your digital assets and thrive in a digital-first world. For more insights and assistance on cybersecurity solutions tailored for your Fort Wayne business, contact SDTEK . Your digital safety is our priority.
06 Dec, 2023
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