Cloud computing isn’t a passing fad. The technology is here to stay, and businesses are hopping on board. Cloud computing is convenient, cost-effective, and lets you access your data from just about anywhere.
Unfortunately, this convenience comes with a downside. Your cloud storage solution is probably getting the attention of potential hackers. To keep hackers out of your virtual systems, it helps to be familiar with the essential steps for protecting data from the potential impacts of cloud malware.
Key Steps for Keeping Data Safe in the Cloud
Data security should always be a priority. Not only do industry cybersecurity standards probably apply. Generally, anything considered personally identifiable information (PII) is protected by various industry regulations. Along with the risk of incurring hefty fines, a data breach can also damage your brand’s reputation. Some businesses never fully recover after going through a data breach.
Now that you know why data security in the cloud is essential, here’s a look at some of the best practices for keeping stored information safe.
Your Service Provider Matters
Finding a cloud service provider is just as easy as finding the nearest gas station. In other words, you have plenty of options, and prices can widely vary. While you probably don’t need to go with the most expensive cloud service provider, it’s a good idea to skip the lowest-priced one.
To keep pricing low, the service provider may be cutting some corners on cybersecurity features. Along with sticking with middle-priced services, look for ones that offer the following:
- Data encryption
- Secure data storage
- Plenty of access controls, like two-step authentication
You also want to double-check that the provided security tools meet industry standards. For example, the healthcare industry follows HIPAA guidelines. If any security tools are missing, it may be best to go with another cloud service provider.
Know Your Cybersecurity Responsibilities
Just because you’re moving your data to the cloud doesn’t mean your cybersecurity responsibilities are coming to an end. Before starting the data migration, take some time to have a conversation with your service provider.
What should you talk about? Find out if the service provider is responsible for keeping the virtual infrastructure secure. Most cloud service providers handle this end of security, leaving it up to you to protect the stored data.
Don’t forget, you’re also responsible for security on your physical infrastructure. Figuring out who’s responsible for what is a great way of limiting any potential data breaches.
Remember, if a breach occurs you can’t claim ignorance as an excuse. You’re always responsible for securing data no matter where it’s stored.
Encryption is Your Friend
Sure, it can be annoying when data shows up in a string of meaningless letters, symbols, and numbers. This is what you get with data encryption. If data is still encrypted on your screen, make sure you’re listed as an authorized user. If you’re not authorized to access the data, your encryption tool is doing its job.
With that being said, encrypting data during transit and while in storage should be automatic. Microsoft does this automatically, so check if it’s the same if you’re using another cloud service provider. If the provider doesn’t automatically encrypt data, you have a couple of options.
You can switch to a provider that offers encryption services or take care of it on your end. Honestly, it’s usually easier and less expensive to let the cloud service provider take care of your encryption needs.
Don’t Give Everyone Access to Your Data
Did you grow up with a younger sibling? If so, did you try to write things down in code so your pesky sibling couldn’t read your journal or diary? Guess what, you get to do this all over again. This time, you’re preventing unauthorized access to your organization’s data, whether it’s stored or in transit.
Implementing access controls can sound a little daunting. Thankfully, it’s probably something you can handle without dragging in your entire IT department. Figure out who needs access to what data and start creating an authorization list. The best part is you can easily revoke access whenever needed. You can also grant access, whether temporarily or permanently, based on each unique situation.
Check the Security of Your APIs
APIs are a necessity. They’re how you access your cloud services. Hackers can also use vulnerable APIs to get into your virtual servers. Since you can’t do away with APIs, it’s up to you to boost their security.
Encryption and authentication tools are usually enough to keep would-be hackers out of your cloud and away from your data.
Don’t Leave Your Employees in the Dark
Even though pretty much everyone is familiar with how the cloud functions, training is still a vital part of your company’s overall security plan. Making sure your staff understands authentication and encryption tools is a start. Don’t forget to keep your team updated on the latest cybersecurity trends. Yep, hackers often follow trends. Knowing what they are can make it easier to prepare for a potential data attack.
Don’t forget about reminding employees to always report any suspicious activity. Nothing is ever too small to report. This is often an effective way of stopping hackers in their tracks.
Run Regular Assessments
Sure, your service provider is probably running security assessments on their end. This is great, but it doesn’t mean there’s nothing left for you to do. Cybersecurity ultimately falls on you, regardless of the services you’re getting from your cloud provider.
This means regularly running security assessments on all of your physical and virtual systems. Think this sounds like more work than your IT staff can handle? You can easily outsource your assessments to a third-party supplier.
Zero Trust Principles Can Help Keep Your Data Safe in the Cloud
Zero trust can sound a little extreme. However, you’re not being paranoid. Hackers will try just about everything to get into your systems. Your cloud provider is taking steps to protect your data on their end, but ultimately it’s up to you.
Always verify any data points and limit access whenever possible. If you suspect a potential data breach, don’t wait for verification. Start taking steps now to minimize any threats.
