Data security challenges and its solutions in cloud computing

Cloud computing is providing migratory solutions for various services via the Internet. These solutions include tools and applications such as data storage, servers, databases, networks, and software services

While the cloud provides improved efficiency and portability in the tech & IT sectors, you need to keep the ensuing flexibility in check as your security has to evolve at the same rate threats are increasing.

Here are some of the most critical data security challenges and its solutions in cloud computing that most companies are facing currently. 

Data breach in Cloud Computing

A data breach is an occurrence that potentially gives data to unauthorized users. Cyber-attacks are very common and can destroy a company’s reputation if successful. Many big companies like Facebook and Alibaba have also been the target of data breaches, making them the top cloud security threat.

This type of breach loses your clients’ trust in your company. The most common ways it happened are weak passwords, corrupt applications, and the rise of Phishing attacks.

While a huge threat, a data breach can be avoided by a few simple steps.

• Assigning worth and impact by loss values to data and forming the matrix for data and forming strict policies for the data ranking high in the matrix.
• Using encryption to protect data and check on input and output routines of data.
• Make sure to have active antiviruses and firewall control.
• Having a set of policies for access control for employees and third-party users.

Cloud Misconfiguration

It is a common misconception that storing your company’s data in cloud systems is enough to secure it. Because if the cloud is not configured correctly, it may become vulnerable to attacks. For example, in a single Capital One data breach, 100 million customers’ data was stolen because of simple misconfiguration of firewalls in web applications.

Cloud misconfiguration is the most common data security challenge in the cloud, but it can be avoided by following simple steps.

• Make sure all configurations are done properly while setting up the cloud and have it regularly checked for any misconfigurations along the way.
• Ensure that you have a strong change management plan and various risk assessment plans in place.
• Keep a record of people who have access to cloud databases and also of what data users can access via the internet.

Insecure Interfaces/ APIs

APIs are one of the major concerns in terms of security in cloud computing because they are the main path through which clients interact with services. In these terms, it is the responsibility of both the cloud service provider and the client to make them as secure as possible. Make sure that access control protocols are in place so that unauthorized persons or organizations can’t access your data.

The following steps can be used to avoid this threat:

• While designing the APIs, keep in mind both the security and functionality of APIs.
• Use frameworks that are recommended and made standard for the creation of UI and APIs.
• Avoid reusing old APIs while also keeping authentication in place to limit unauthorized access.

Insider Attacks

This can become an issue when current or former employees, who have intentions to undermine the company, sell or leak out the data to rival companies. This is a very serious challenge because the insider already knows how the company works and how data is stored and retrieved. They may also have access to the company server, which makes it all the more daunting.

To deal with this, the best policy is to adopt a proactive approach. You should be looking out for employees who:

• have a similar previous record of fraud,
• don’t comply with contracts and policies,
• forged or faked any information to get a job in your company, and
• take a keen interest in project information that doesn’t concern them.

Conclusion

Granted that cloud computing is providing its users with a number of benefits. However, it also poses challenges in terms of data security which, if neglected, can cause serious damage. Data security challenges and its solutions for cloud computing are the responsibility of both the service provider and the client. Seamless and secure connections can only be achieved when both parties are focused on and perform their part in it. Simple steps like taking a proactive approach and ensuring proper system configurations can save you a lot of trouble in the long run.

To keep your cloud infrastructure secure, get in touch with our team of cloud security experts right away.