It wasn’t all that long ago when the cloud was a new frontier for the corporate world. Now, it’s become a staple in the landscape. In fact, the cloud storage market is expected to grow “from USD 50.1 billion in 2020 to USD 137.3 billion by 2025,” according to Research and Markets. However, as more businesses choose to store their data online, the harder it is for third-party services to maintain security.
Is the Cloud Secure From Cloud Storage Security Risks?
When it comes to cloud storage security risks, the problem is more on the side of the user rather than the technology itself. The companies that offer cloud storage understand they are holding on to important information and strong cloud data security is necessary if they’re to be trusted with it. Unfortunately, with every new service that you integrate with your cloud storage solution, new vulnerabilities are introduced.
Cloud storage is coveted for its convenience, but you shouldn’t let its benefits and built-in security measures cause you to let your guard down. Like with any other form of technology, it should be used wisely to avoid potential incidents. Following certain best practices can help you keep your IT protected from threats, but more on that later.
The Risks of Cloud Storage
Whether you’re using OneDrive, Dropbox, iDrive, or some other service, you can be fairly confident that these companies are doing everything they can to keep your files secure. But the reality is, no defense is 100% effective. There’s always a chance that you could encounter some kind of cyberthreat. For example, your cloud services aren’t going to protect you from a phishing attack.
One of the most prevalent and dangerous forms of cyberattacks for business is phishing. This type of cyberthreat uses social engineering to trick people into divulging information or accidentally installing viruses. It’s often done through fraudulent emails, phone calls, and more.
As cloud-based solutions become more popular, many hackers have turned their attention to obtaining cloud credentials. If they can get their hands on your credentials, they can access the server holding your information with minimum effort. Due to the nature of phishing, it is perfect for stealing something like your credentials.
Your service provider could have the best cybersecurity in the world, but that doesn’t mean much if you give a hacker the keys to the front door.
How To Use Cloud Storage Safely
The key to using cloud storage safely is to follow cybersecurity best practices. There are a variety of measures you can use, but here are some of the most helpful:
- Use One Service: Simplify management for yourself by limiting your organization to one service. Every member of your team should be using the same platform and you should have full control over it.
- Start Training: Bring cybersecurity awareness to the forefront of your company. Train your employees on what cyberthreats are, how to spot them, how to avoid them, and what to do if they become a victim. This helps make your staff less likely to compromise your network.
- Establish Multi-Factor Authentication: Multi-factor authentication (MFA) is designed to prevent unauthorized access. It does this by requiring the user to present multiple identifiers that ensure the user is who they say they are.
- Limit Outside Apps: Most third-party apps connect to personal cloud storage services. While the cloud storage providers likely have adequate protection, the app companies may not hold themselves to the same standard. If you can, you should block third-party apps from connecting with your platform.
How To Evaluate Cloud Service Provider Security
There is no shortage of cloud storage options to choose from. Before picking one over the other, you want to evaluate which can provide you with better security. This includes taking into account how big the risks are between vendors. For example, Google Drive is the most popular and easy to use, but a breach could lead to the hacker gaining access to your email and phone.
Here are the main factors you should consider:
- Security: What do they offer?
- Compliance: Do they meet your compliance requirements?
- Service Levels: Are they able to deliver in terms of availability, response time, capacity, and support?
Get the Reliable Cloud Services You Deserve
Security isn’t a concern when you choose Computer Technology Management Services as your partner. We offer a wide selection of cloud services to meet every need. Additionally, we’re able to back your network up with the latest innovations in cybersecurity. From our Defendify program to our network security services, we take security seriously.
Contact us to learn more.
