Cloud computing risks and solutions

Risks of cloud computing and solutions. 

Cloud computing has in fact allowed businesses to access high-end technology and information at an affordable cost. In most cases, SMBs are able to access new technology and more resources without the premium price it would have cost in the past. 

While cloud computing can offer organizations a competitive advantage, it is important not to rush into cloud adoption without understanding the risks involved as well. A lack of understanding of cloud vulnerabilities can be an organization’s downfall when moving operations to these dynamic environments.  

So why isn’t cloud computing the choice for all companies? The answer is obvious: the inevitable risks of cloud computing. Switching to this new way of defining IT requires an in-depth evaluation of the business’ needs and an analysis of how much risk can be tolerated. 

How secure is the cloud? 

The data that you save with cloud service providers may likely be safer than the information you’ve stored in your computer’s hard drive. First, servers are usually located in warehouses that most workers don’t have access to. Secondly, the files stored on cloud servers are encrypted. This means that they are scrambled, which makes it far harder for cybercriminals to access. 

Below are common risks of using cloud computing: 

Malware 

Moving large amounts of sensitive data to the cloud exposes organizations to additional cyber threats. Malware attacks are a common threat to cloud security, with studies showing that nearly 90% of organizations are more likely to experience data breaches as cloud usage increases. As cybercriminals continue to become increasingly savvy with their attack delivery methods, organizations must be aware of the evolving threat landscape. 

Compliance and legal risks 

Many data security regulations are intended to protect a specific type of data. For example, platforms that accept credit cards are required to protect cardholder data. They are also typically required to know:

• Where the data resides 
• Who is allowed to access it 
• How it is protected 

If a company outsources the processing or storage of data that it is required to protect, then it is relying on a cloud service provider to maintain its compliance. 

If the company does not have adequate legal protections, then it may be liable when there is a data breach at the cloud service that exposes the company’s data. 

A Cloud service provider might not be liable for a breach of your data on its systems. So you are transferring the responsibility of protecting the data to a third party, but you are still liable if that party fails to live up to the task. 

Denial of Service (DoS) attacks 

Denial of service (DoS) attacks occur when the system receives too much traffic to buffer the server. Mostly, DoS attackers target web servers of large organizations such as banking sectors, media companies, and government organizations. To recover the lost data, DoS attackers charge a great deal of time and money to handle the data. 

Risks related to lack of control 

When you host and maintain service on a local network, you have complete control over the features you choose to use

However, when you use a cloud service provider, the vendor is in control. You have no guarantee that the features you use today will be provided for the same price tomorrow. The vendor can double its price, and if your clients are depending on that service, then you might be forced to pay. 

Remember: you have many ways to protect your data when it is in control. However, once it’s in the hands of a cloud service provider, you have given control to an entity over which you have no oversight.

Availability risks 

If your internet access goes down, then it will take your vendor’s cloud service with it. If you need the cloud service to process customer payments, or access important data, too bad – you have to wait until the internet is back up. 

How Adept Technologies help you manage cloud computing risks 

Adept Technologies allows organisations to continuously oversee the security of their cloud solutions. Our solutions allow your organization to confidently manage its cloud security efforts and make data-driven decisions. 

If you’re searching for a cost-effective IT solution and have flexibility in data storage and operations, cloud computing may be the right choice for your enterprise. To learn more about available options, contact Adept Technologies today!