Cloud storage services have become very popular in recent years thanks to their ability to deliver a scalable, cost-effective alternative to storing files on a hard drive or storage network. Unlike computer hard drives, which can only hold a finite amount of data, cloud storage can scale up according to your needs, and you only pay for the capacity you use.
Before cloud services came around, organizations had to build and maintain storage area networks to store archived files and data. These networks are difficult to build and expensive to maintain, which is why cloud storage offers such an economical solution.
Whether you’re an individual storing extra photos and videos on a cloud or a business using cloud storage for data backups, there are ways to ensure that you’re keeping your system safe while doing so. Read on to learn everything you need to know about cloud storage security threats and what you can do to avoid them.
Security Threats Facing Cloud Service Users
While cloud storage is a convenient and economical solution, there are plenty of security threats facing cloud service users. Here are some of the most common:
- Misconfiguration of cloud security settings
- Malware and Cyberattacks
- Unauthorized Access
- Insecure APIs and interfaces
- Account hijacking
- A lack of cloud-focused security tools
- External data sharing
- Malicious insiders
- DoS attacks
With so many potential security threats, cloud users must take precautions to ensure that their data is protected while being stored in the cloud. Read on to learn about the easiest and most effective ways to ensure that your data and system are safe and secure while using cloud storage.
How Users Can Secure Their Devices
Whether you’re an individual or a business looking for ways to keep your devices safe and secure while using cloud storage, you can find some simple and effective ways to do so below.
Multi-Factor Authentication
Setting up multi-factor authentication for your cloud storage service will keep your data safe and secure if an unauthorized person gets the login details for your account. When you set up MFA, you’ll be required to enter a live-generated security code that’s sent to a device of your choice after entering your login details. This extra security step makes it virtually impossible for an unauthorized party to gain access to your account.
Use a VPN
Using a VPN (Virtual Private Network) to secure access to the cloud is another effective security measure that won’t only protect your cloud service account but all data that’s sent and received on the device you’re using the VPN on. A VPN for security works by masking your device’s IP address and encrypting all the data that comes into or leaves the device.
Employee Training
If you’re a business that uses a cloud storage service, the best thing you can do to ensure that your data and systems are secure is to train your employees on how to use the service and systems properly. While it may be challenging to find the time and resources for this, it can save you from losing your most important data due to preventable issues like misconfiguration and external data sharing.
Follow the simple tips above to keep your cloud storage accounts safe and secure.
