Have you considered how secure your cloud data would be in the event of a cyber-attack?
It is easy to assume that once information has been stored in the cloud, it is entirely safe. But this isn’t necessarily true. For example, AWS experienced a breach in 2024 that compromised the data of thousands of users. Threat actors often target major cloud service providers (CSPs), due to the vast amount of information they store.
So how can you ensure that your business isn’t the next to experience a breach, and the damaged reputation that follows?
Why Cloud Data Security is Essential
If your data vanished tomorrow, would your business still be able to function? For most, the answer is no. But this is a real threat that you face daily. Ransomware for example can encrypt files, holding them hostage until those responsible get what they want. Data security for cloud solutions is essential in order to prevent this. It is not enough to rely on your CSP’s security and hope that nothing goes amiss. Instead, you must ensure that data is protected at rest and in transit.
Whose Responsibility is Data Security in Cloud Computing?
One of the most common misconceptions about cloud computing and data security is that the CSP will handle everything. In reality, most providers operate using a shared responsibility model. This means that both you and the CSP are held accountable for data protection.
Your Responsibilities:
- Configuring security settings properly to prevent cloud data security issues.
- Implementing multi-factor authentication (MFA) and encryption.
- Training employees on security best practices.
Cloud Provider Responsibilities:
- Maintaining secure infrastructure and compliance certifications.
- Providing security features such as access controls.
- Ensuring the physical security of data centers.
Understanding this division of responsibility is crucial for effectively managing risks and mitigating potential cloud data security issues. If you are uncertain what measures your CSP offers, consult with them.
What You Can Do to Protect Your Data
Ensuring data security for cloud environments requires a proactive, well-planned approach. Some key security strategies include:
- Strong Access Controls: If fewer staff can access critical data, threat actors will have less opportunity to launch an attack. Use role-based access controls (RBAC) and the principle of least privilege to prevent unauthorised entry.
- Data Encryption: Encrypt data at all times, whether it is in the cloud or being transferred across networks.
- Monitoring Cloud Environments: Implement advanced monitoring tools to detect unusual activity early. This will limit the harm threat actors are able to cause.
- Regular Security Audits: Assess your security measures regularly, so that potential gaps can be detected and addressed.
- Employee Training: Many security breaches occur due to human error. Train employees on security best practices and the dire consequences of a breach.
What About Cloud Providers?
Leading CSPs offer their own, built-in security controls to help prevent data breaches. For example:
- Google Cloud Data Security: Google Cloud’s data security tools provide encryption, identity management, expert guidance, and compliance support.
- Microsoft Azure Data Security: Microsoft Azure is known for its vast array of customisable cloud security options, including Application Insights, Microsoft Defender for Cloud, and Azure Resource Manager.
- Prisma Cloud Data Security: Prisma Cloud data security solutions offer additional protection tailored to developers, such as advanced threat detection and API security.
It is crucial to evaluate your provider’s security offerings for compliance requirements and operational needs. You may also need to configure or activate them.
Should I Outsource Cloud Data Security?
For many reasons, managing data security issues in cloud computing is complex and resource-intensive. Your business may not be equipped for this task, due to limited funds or staffing. In this case, it may be worth outsourcing cloud data security to a managed service provider (MSP). An MSP can offer:
- Expertise in cloud security best practices
- Continuous monitoring for threats and vulnerabilities
- Faster response to security incidents
- Compliance management support
If you choose this path, be careful to thoroughly vet out potential partners, and choose one with proven experience in your industry.
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Common Questions Answered
Q: What are the biggest cloud data security challenges, and how can I address them?
A: Some of the biggest security challenges include limited funds, a lack of in-house expertise, and difficulty securing disparate systems. These can be mitigated by outsourcing to an MSP, or by choosing cost-effective solutions and focusing on network and perimeter security.
Q: Why do I need security measures, if the provider does it for me?
A: While CSPs provide built-in security, this is not sufficient to protect your data. Threat actors are still able to breach the cloud.
Q: How do I ensure compliance with data security regulations?
A: Compliance with regulations such as the CCPA and GDPR can be achieved by choosing providers that prioritise security, implementing your own measures, and keeping a paper trail of your efforts.
Managed Cloud Security to Give You Peace of Mind
Data security in cloud computing is essential to prevent financial loss, reputational damage, and operational disruptions. CSPs will assist to some extent by providing their own basic security solutions, but it is still critical to follow the shared responsibility model and secure your end. With some preparation and planning, you will be able to mitigate common risk factors and protect your data.
Not sure what to do next? National IT solutions can handle cloud data security for you, taking complex tasks off your plate so you can focus on providing excellent service to clients. Explore our managed cloud services to learn more about how we can help.
