7 Cloud Security Issues You Need to Address Right Now

Cloud solutions are slowly, but surely, becoming the most suitable option for businesses across the globe. They are cost-effective, efficient, reliable, and scalable.

One of the main advantages of using cloud computing is strong security. But cloud computing is not hacker-proof. In fact, more and more hackers are turning their attention to it. After all, cloud services are like a gold mine of confidential information, which has a massive value on the dark market.

Therefore, it is essential to be careful when choosing a service provider. Moreover, it is necessary to be aware of all the risks, so you’d know how to mitigate them. So without further ado, let’s begin.

1.   Human Error

Did you know that human error and negligence are the number one cause of data breaches and data loss? In fact, according to one report, 47% of employers said that human error was to blame for their cybersecurity incidents.

When it comes to cloud services, the risk increases because employees often log in using personal devices. If they are not careful, it leaves the whole system vulnerable. Regardless of how reliable your cybersecurity infrastructure is, one wrong log in from a different device can cause problems.

2.   Data Breaches

Data breaches are among the most common security issues when it comes to cloud services. Cybercriminals know that’s where companies keep essential documents, so they go in for the kill. Companies that don’t encrypt the files that they keep in a cloud are leaving them for hackers to steal or expose.

What makes matters even worse is that data breaches may also bring significant fines and a wrecked reputation. If a data breach occurs, it means that the company wasn’t taking proper care of their customers’ data. Moreover, it wasn’t compliant with GDPR or other regulations, so they would likely have to pay a considerable fine.

And the saddest part is, data breaches are often easy to avoid. One only needs to have decent encryption software for Windows (or another device) and remember to use it.

3.   Phishing and Social Engineering

Phishing is a method that hackers often turn to because it’s effective and easy to disguise. They create websites on domains with names similar to large companies and institutions. Then hackers add a fake login page and send out emails with links to it to unsuspecting users. If they take the bait and enter their information onto the fake login page, their credentials go straight to the hacker.

In recent years, cloud storage has become a favorite target of phishing and social engineering attacks. So it is vital to educate employees on how to recognize it.

4.   DDoS Attacks

DDoS stands for “distributed denial of service.” It is a practice when malicious actors overload the server with massive amounts of traffic. It causes the service (e.g., e-commerce website) to shut down.

Nowadays, most companies rely on cloud solutions. In case of a DDoS attack, it would be impossible to manage some day-to-day activities. It could have a severe negative impact on business and would cause a lot of stress and headaches. Not to mention the loss of potential customers.

5.   System Liabilities

Cloud computing systems aren’t perfect nor error-proof. Most cloud services consist of complicated infrastructures. They often include different third-party applications and services. Sometimes, the control is out of your hands, so you have to put your trust in cloud service companies and their partners. And only a single vulnerability is enough to cause severe damages. Once the hackers identify the vulnerability, they stop at nothing before they manage to exploit it.

6.   Third-Party Apps

Third-party applications, in general, can be a liability for any cloud service or business. External applications can be a great addition to the company’s resources. But regardless of how robust your cybersecurity infrastructure is, they can also be a burden.

If the third-party service provider doesn’t have proper system protection, they can cause a lot of damage to themselves and their clients. That is precisely why it is imperative to have your cybersecurity team assess third-party services.

7.   Lack of Education

Lastly, a lack of education relates to every single threat in this article. The world of cyberattacks is evolving, and new exploits appear every day. It is important to keep up by educating your employees about the dangers and how to avoid or mitigate them. It is especially important for phishing and social engineering. Make sure to invest time, money, and effort into teaching your organization about the never-ending threats.

Conclusion

Using the cloud is convenient, but you shouldn’t ignore the security risks that come with it. A large number of threats will always be lurking around the corner. But you can do something about it. Moreover, education is beneficial in preventing breaches and falling victim to phishing scams. As long as you’re proactive about your company and its security, you’re moving in the right direction.

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