Cloud computing systems have become increasingly popular with business owners because they increase productivity and efficiency, and enhance collaboration between coworkers. Companies use many cloud services, storage servers, and tools for their business operations. However, cloud computing comes with some vulnerabilities that cybercriminals can exploit if not properly addressed. Businesses should make cloud security a priority to stay safe while enjoying the benefits of cloud computing.
What is Cloud Security?
Cloud security comprises all the protocols, measures, procedures, and tools created to remediate the threats posed to a cloud computing system. Businesses always face cyber threats, which is why their owners should embrace cloud security while they undergo digital transformation and integrate cloud computing with their existing processes.
Cloud Security Challenges
Cybercriminals have observed that companies significantly benefit from the unique opportunities that cloud computing provides and will likely not abandon the technology. As a result, they position themselves to take advantage of companies that fail to take adequate cloud security measures.
Cloud-based applications and storage solutions are prime targets for cyber attackers. They also use social engineering tactics to trick employees into providing the login credentials for their work accounts. Cybercriminals send phishing emails to unsuspecting employees or use brute force attacks to gain unauthorized access to a company’s cloud systems.
This is problematic because if a cybercriminal successfully obtains an employee’s login credentials, they can access their account without being detected. This is because the business owner will assume the right person is logging in from a remote location.
Tips to Uphold Cloud Security
As a business owner, it is one thing to recognize the vulnerabilities of cloud computing, but it is another to fix the problem. Here are two cloud security tips to guide you:
Enable multi-factor authentication
Set up a cloud system that requires employees to verify their identity after entering their login details on their work account. This can be done with a USB smart card reader that detects their company card, an authentication link sent to their email, or a one-time password sent as an SMS. Whenever there is a login attempt where a user inputs the correct login details but does not pass the identity test, it is a likely failed breach attempt.
Patch vulnerabilities quickly
Some cloud-based applications have vulnerabilities that hackers can exploit, so you should apply security updates often. These security updates contain patches for these vulnerabilities, and they are released regularly as vendors often look for new vulnerabilities in their software. Do not hesitate to apply these updates even though the application is being managed by a reputable vendor.
Endnote
Traditionally, people needed to be in an office to work a job, access their company accounts, and deal with sensitive files. This created a level of security because the company’s servers, files, and sensitive material were within a confined location protected by powerful firewalls, antivirus software, and other security programs.
Nowadays, cloud computing has enabled employees to work remotely from any internet-enabled computer or smartphone. This has created new security challenges for business owners. You need to prioritize cloud security to prevent hackers and other cyber criminals from gaining unauthorized access to your systems to steal sensitive data and disrupt your operations.
