There is a raft of myths pertaining to data security in the cloud that need to be combated, particularly for those still doubting the relevance and importance of cloud-based solutions. Data access, management, and saving has been revolutionized fully with the growth of cloud computing. However, there are several misconceptions which are linked to the security of cloud data. Here’s looking at some of these myths that should be debunked below.
Key Myths Regarding Data Security in the Cloud
Let us take a closer look at myths and misconceptions pertaining to secure cloud storage below.
Shared Responsibility Models- Key Misconceptions
There are several myths relating to shared responsibility models and the potential for security breaches. Some of them include the following:
In the shared responsibility model, cloud providers are responsible for various aspects. They have invested considerably in scaling up security levels, which encompass the physical security offered by data centers and also network security. They usually offer certifications for diverse industry regulations too, including PCI DSS, HIPAA, and GDPR. Many companies also end up assuming that providers will configure environments to be more secure as a default service, although this cannot be expected at all times. Misconfigurations are often an issue that leads to security problems. Companies should not only put in a proper tracking system as a part of their shared responsibility, while also understanding that just moving to the cloud does not make them compliant entities.
How It Stacks Up For Companies
Data security in the cloud has several myths and wrongful perceptions around it, which have been busted above. At the same time, the shared responsibility concept has to be taken seriously by companies as well. There is an element of continual tracking and knowledge regarding regulations and compliance that organizations cannot wish away. Sometimes, cloud security seems improbable due to the lack of understanding among companies in relation to security risks linked to cloud ecosystems. Many a time, companies do not allocate proper resources towards cloud security as well on the grounds of convenience. Hence, this may lead to the absence of suitable security controls and higher vulnerability.
The shared responsibility model has to be fully understood, where companies should know the areas of cloud security that they should invest more in and also how to build security blueprints likewise. While providers hold responsibility for securing cloud infrastructure, inclusive of the physical security of data centers, virtualization layer, and network security, companies hold responsibility for the security of operating systems, apps, and other data that run on the cloud-based infrastructure. Hence, while cloud environments are secure enough at a tertiary level, organizations also have to usher in necessary policy and technological changes to make it work. To sum it up, cloud providers hold responsibility for securing the cloud itself, while the companies have the responsibility to secure their data within the cloud.
FAQs
1. Isn’t cloud storage inherently less secure than keeping my data on-premise?
Cloud storage is not intrinsically less secure in comparison to keeping data on-premises. This is because providers offer similar security levels while having implemented multiple measures and upholding stringent regulations related to data security.
2. Can cloud providers access my data without permission?
It is not that easy for cloud providers to access your data without authorization. There are limitations and data security regulations that bind them in this regard.
3. What happens to my data if the cloud provider experiences a security breach?
Data may be compromised in case of a security breach at the cloud provider’s end. However, companies hold responsibility to secure their own data within the cloud to prevent any adverse impact.
4. Does cloud computing offer any security advantages over traditional data storage?
Cloud computing may offer more advanced security in comparison to conventional data storage, since cloud providers help companies comply with changing regulations, while infrastructure and processes are also regularly updated.
5. How can I ensure my data remains secure when using cloud computing services?
Some of the ways to ensure data security in the cloud include not storing highly sensitive or confidential data there, reading user agreements to find out the cloud service storage functions, making passwords in an informed manner, encryption measures, and also using an encryption cloud service.
