Cloud computing is a widely preferred platform across organizations. The fluid data exchange and the liberty of 24×7 access to data allows firms to operate continuously. Although the cloud service is exceptionally convenient, one should be equally aware that data might be compromised if companies don’t take appropriate measures. The vast collection of raw and processed data in the cloud attracts potential hackers to lurk around, leading to possible information breaches. One needs to know the complete whereabouts of their data, even if handed over to an expert. Here are a few tips your business can use to ensure the security of data in your cloud.
Ensure Local Backup
It is the essential precaution that one can take towards cloud data security. Misuse of data is one thing, but losing possible data from your end may result in dire consequences. Especially in the IT world, where information is everything organizations depend upon; losing data files could not only lead to a significant financial loss but may also attract legal action.
Avoid Storing Sensitive Information
Many companies refrain from storing personal data on their servers, and there is sensibility behind the decision — saving sensitive becomes a responsibility of the organization. Compromise with such data can lead to gruesome troubles for the firm. Giants such as Facebook have been dragged to court under such issues in the past. Additionally, uploading sensitive data is faulty from the customer’s perspective too. Merely avoid storing such sensitive data on the cloud.
Use Encryption
Encrypting data before uploading it to the cloud is an excellent precaution against threats from unwanted hackers. Use local encryption as an additional layer of security. Known as zero-knowledge proof in cryptography, this method will even protect your data against service providers and administrators themselves. Therefore, choose a service provider who provides a prerequisite data encryption. Also if you’re already opting for an encrypted cloud service, having a preliminary round of encryption for your files will give you a little extra security.
Apply Reliable Passwords
Utilize discretion and don’t make your passwords predictable. Additionally, introduce a two-step verification process to enhance the security level of your data. Even if there is a breach in one security step, the other protects the data. Use updated patch levels so that hackers cannot break-in easily. There are numerous tips on the Internet to make a good password. Use your creativity to strengthen the password further and keep changing it at regular intervals.
Additional Security Measures
Although passwords are good for keeping data encrypted, applying additional measures are also important. Encryption stops unauthorized access of data, but it doesn’t secure its existence. There are chances that your data might get corrupted over the time or that many people will have access to your data and password security seems unreliable. Your cloud must be secured with antivirus programs, admin controls, and other features that help protect data. A secure cloud system and its dedicated servers must use the right security tools and must function according to privilege controls to move data.
Test Your Security
Testing might sound like a minor task, but it can make a significant difference. Testing may include examining your cloud to see how well it is performing in association with its security setup. You can also hire ethical hackers to test your system’s security level and check if it has decayed over time; this may also provide a window to the possible loopholes that may allow hacking from unknown sources. Never assume that your cloud system is always safe. Keeping cloud data safe requires constant action.
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