Overcoming the security challenges that small and medium-sized businesses face when accessing the cloud
As more companies move to the cloud, security issues are becoming a major concern. A serious attack can wipe out the benefits of scalability and lower costs. It can also take away the freedom to work from an office, home, or car.
Before moving to the cloud, review these security issues with your in-house team and with data center professionals.
Cloud security threats from outside attackers
Data breaches. A breach can cost a company customer accounts, trade secrets, intellectual property, and vendor information. When that happens, the loss can lead to financial damage, lawsuits, and lost goodwill with customers. Cloud service providers keep countering breaches with new software and updated strategies.
Account hijacking. Competitors and criminals try to steal login and password information so they can take over company accounts. Newer attack methods include scripting bugs, phishing, and the theft of user tokens. Cloud devices use those tokens to get around logins.
Malware attacks. Malware is code injected into the cloud server, so it can stop, breach, disrupt, or alter computer operations.
Insecure Application Programming Interfaces (API). APIs let users manage their cloud by providing access, authorizing encryption, and managing performance. But attackers see that convenience as an opening for misconduct. Code reviews, security testing, and access controls reduce API security risks.
Denial of service. Some attacks aim to make money by selling information, but denial of service attacks aim to keep IT systems from running.
Insider threats and legal exposure
Inside attacks. In-house systems make it easier to deter disgruntled employees from violating your IT systems. The cloud makes that harder, because a user can carry out threats from anywhere at any time. Insiders with direct access to customer accounts and personal data can cause serious harm if they turn against the company. To reduce that risk, limit access and ban the sharing of account information. Add software that monitors who accesses accounts, and schedule internal reviews.
Sharing data that violates laws. Hackers and others with access to privileged data can leak it. A leak can put the company in breach of federal or international compliance laws. It may also violate warranties, contracts, and other legal instruments and regulations.
Planning and due diligence
Lack of due diligence. Security issues can arise when the company and the data center do not agree on who manages security. Understanding how cloud computing works is critical when preparing proper security measures.
A full review of IT operations for bugs can also increase security, because it highlights weaknesses and entry points.
Data centers usually recommend distributing software and data across multiple zones. Hybrid accounts can keep the most sensitive information at the company site. Routine backups and disaster recovery plans are also essential to any cloud security discussion.
Contact a knowledgeable cloud security professional to prepare for potential security risks
An experienced data center professional understands the dangers that cloud computing poses. Build a complete strategy before any cloud migration begins. Then keep the security plans updated throughout the lifecycle of the cloud services.
Discover how Volico can help you with your Cloud Security needs.
- Call: (305) 735-8098
- Chat with a member of our team to discuss which solution best fits your needs.
