Cloud computing has become an integral part of the modern business world. It has revolutionized data storage and processing, making it easier for businesses to store data remotely. But, does this new technology come with its own set of risks?
While some security experts argue that cloud computing makes it easier for hackers to access your information, others say that cloud computing is actually more secure than other forms of data storage.
At Netkiller, we recognize both viewpoints and have built our company on providing robust cloud security for over 14 years. Regardless, the issue can still be a concern for many large and small corporations who have invested heavily in cloud technology. Here are 7 ways you can make sure your data is protected in the cloud:
Understand the risks of cloud computing
When data is stored on a local computer, it’s easier to keep protected from hackers. But when you store your data remotely, it’s more difficult to protect.
Cloud computing is often touted as a secure and affordable storage option for businesses: It offers scalability and the ability to access data quickly and easily anywhere in the world. However, because of this remote storage method, it can be more difficult to protect against cybercrime.
Additionally, some companies may not understand the risks associated with storing their own data in the cloud. For example, some employees might use personal email accounts for business tasks without realizing that they are opening up vulnerabilities for their company’s data.
The first step is understanding all of the risks associated with cloud computing so that you can take steps to prevent them from happening.
Use a backup system for your data
Cloud storage offers a lot of conveniences, but that doesn’t mean you should skip backing up your data. Especially if you’re using a public cloud service, it’s important to maintain a backup system for your data.
Your data is stored on a remote server, which could potentially result in a security breach. To protect against this from happening, make sure you have the latest backup of the files stored on your cloud drive. This will ensure that you can easily recover all your information if anything does happen to it.
If anything does happen to your data and you don’t have a backup, make sure you contact the company who manages your cloud storage immediately to try and recover any lost information or files.
Take advantage of cloud encryption
The most obvious way to protect your data in the cloud is to encrypt it. This will help prevent unauthorized access and reduce the risk of a data breach. Cloud encryption is a service whereby a customer’s data is transformed using encryption algorithms into ciphertext and stored in the cloud. Encrypted data can remain unreadable and essentially meaningless without its key even when lost, stolen or breached through unauthorized access.
Consider how you share your data
One of the best ways you can protect your data is by considering how you share it.
Before uploading any data to the cloud, make sure you consider who will have access to that information and what they might be able to do with it. If you’re not sure if a particular person should be given access to your data, don’t upload it!
If your data is sensitive, such as credit card information or passwords, the last thing you want is for those details to be shared unnecessarily. When in doubt, just don’t upload that information into the cloud!
Monitor your logs for suspicious activity
When you store your data remotely, there are a few methods that can help to prevent hacking. One is monitoring your logs for suspicious activity. This can be done by using tools like Netkiller ISMS or Google Apps that monitor the logs in real time.
If you find any unusual activity, you can work quickly to stop it before it does any damage. The sooner you act, the better!
Be aware of who has access to your data
There is a lot of talk about cloud security and data protection. One of the most important things you can do to protect your data in the cloud is be aware of who has access to it. Make sure that only authorized people have access. A vast majority of data leaks come from genuinely shared documents – that are shared with the wrong people.
It’s also possible for hackers to gain access to your database through third party apps, which could make it easier for them to access sensitive information. Working with a cybersecurity service provider makes it easy to see who has access to what, and allows you to protect it.
Protect yourself against hackers
While some security experts claim that cloud computing is the most secure form of data storage, others say that it’s actually more vulnerable to hacking than other methods.
Regardless of the potential risks involved, many large corporations have invested heavily in cloud technology and they’re not taking any chances.
For the ultimate protection, implementing an Information Security Management System, such as Netkiller’s ISO 27001 Certified ISMS, will make sure any and all loopholes and exploits are covered, giving you real time alerts and updates regarding your entire system.