Cloud computing brings many benefits to your company, such as scalability, cost savings, and accessibility. It’s also a much more flexible option for businesses that need multiple deployment options. However, it is not without its own set of risks and drawbacks.
Cloud vulnerability is possible because you’re dealing with human elements on a daily basis. No matter how well-encrypted a website may be, it doesn’t matter if an employee leaks a password to a competitor.
Here are some security vulnerabilities you may encounter and how to deal with them.
Common Cloud Vulnerability Areas
Understanding what security threats you may face when utilizing cloud computing is important. There are various forms of cloud security measures in place, but areas of vulnerability still exist despite that.
Cloud Misconfiguration
One of the most common vulnerabilities is cloud misconfiguration. This refers to glitches, gaps, or errors in your work environment.
For example, a publicly accessible database can open your company to outside threats. If they only need a local internet connection to see your information, then that’s a problem.
Lack of Visibility
Another problem you can encounter is utilizing too many cloud services to operate your business. Spreading your private information into too many areas means putting yourself at risk from multiple angles. Lack of visibility can delay action on threats and make it difficult to safeguard your data.
Not Using Multi-Factor Authentication
The biggest cloud vulnerability area you need to deal with is how employees can access your databases. A single password or code isn’t nearly secure enough.
Multi-factor authentication is a layered approach that forces users to verify their identities in multiple ways. This commonly involves inputting a second unique code sent to their personal mobile device.
How to Mitigate Security Threats
The first step to mitigating these security threats is performing a cyber security audit. To audit your cyber security, you should review your policies, create a network structure, and understand compliance standards.
Next, educate your employees on cyber threats they may face in the workplace. This includes not responding to fake emails or opening unknown links. They should also know how to properly navigate your cloud network and log out when they’re done.
Finally, restrict database access based on an employee’s position and privileges. The only people who may need access to all areas of your database are those higher up in the company. Everyone else should only be able to see the information needed to complete their projects.
Secure Your Cloud
The best way to minimize the number of cloud vulnerability areas is to optimize how you use it. Don’t over-extend your company by investing in too many different cloud services. Train your employees to best use these services without compromising your security.
Pegasus Technologies can help your business technology run more smoothly. Our services include managed IT solutions, migration support, and security solutions. Contact us to learn more and speak with an expert.
