Most Common Cloud Security Myths Debunked and Explained

Introduction

Cloud security refers to the set of procedures and technologies designed to address threats to business security. Cloud technology has helped many organizations move forward with initiatives with increased productivity levels, but migrating primarily to cloud-based environments does come with some challenges when it comes to balancing productivity and security. Organizations incorporate cloud-based tools and services as part of their infrastructure to safeguard their data in their push toward digital transformation. When moving toward a more agile environment, enterprises face new challenges balancing productivity levels and security. Striking this balance requires the use of interconnected cloud technologies along with best practices for cloud security.

Top Cloud Security Myths – Debunked

Myth: Cloud is not secure enough to store critical business data

The biggest myth about cloud security is that it’s unsafe. Many people think that storing data off-premises is a bad idea, but that’s not true at all. In reality, there are many advantages to storing data in the cloud—the most obvious being cost savings. Cloud storage is also much more secure than storing backups on-premises because it’s constantly monitored for potential threats by an expert team of professionals who know what they're doing. If you’re worried about natural disasters damaging your backups and causing significant problems, consider a backup solution that stores all your information in the cloud. Unless you own or manage a large firm or operate in an industry where geopolitical restrictions highly regulate data, you should always consider the cloud as a potentially more secure option than on-site storage.

Myth: Cloud computing is more vulnerable to threats

Cloud computing services are believed to be more susceptible to threats because they typically store data for multiple clients. Compared to similar services that use dedicated hardware, cloud computing is perceived to be vulnerable due to the reliance on third-party service providers. However, cloud security firewalls provide an additional layer of defense against malware and hacking attempts by creating internal and external networks that are safe from outside intruders. By building different layers of security, an external network can be secured from malware that users might download unintentionally. Similarly, an internal network is protected from threats originating from outside sources. 

Myth: Security concerns in data access in the public cloud

Many organizations are concerned about security risks associated with cloud storage because public cloud storage permits sharing network space among users. Since many of these users could be business competitors, it’s assumed that sharing cloud space will threaten security. It’s important to understand, however, that even though it’s impossible to know the intentions of all shared space users, the majority will be legitimate users of the platform. Moreover, it’s just a myth that sharing cloud space can lead to other users accessing your data. Data is encrypted in transit in the cloud.

Myth: Potential loss of control over data 

Another concern regarding cloud storage is the loss of control. It is important to remember that data can be controlled in the cloud, despite its physical location. Building your own data center isn’t an option, so you can always turn to local cloud service providers. If you run a global company, work with a worldwide service provider that operates data centers in different countries. A global service provider will not only understand regulations and laws but also be transparent about where your data lives, how it travels, and how it is protected.

Myth: Loss of control over how data might be used

When you outsource to the cloud, you're placing trust in your employees and your service provider's employees. You can't know for sure what they might be doing with your data. However, you should ask your service provider to furnish audit logs so that you know exactly who has had access to your data. Providers can prove their trustworthiness by showing that they carry out required background checks on their staff and have suitable clearance.

Myth: Distrust associated with new technologies

Many people still believe cloud applications and services, which allow users to access data and software from various devices without installing any software on their computers, are relatively new. The concept of cloud computing dates back to the 1950s. Its popularity grew in the 1990s as Internet access became widespread. Today, thanks to cloud services and applications, businesses across various industries are finding new ways to improve their operations while lowering costs.

Helping Small Businesses

Experts at Cloud Solutions Gulf South can help local businesses achieve the most optimum balance between accessing the most relevant technologies and securing their data. To know more about the cloud and the most relevant applications for your business, consider reaching out to Managed IT Services Baton Rouge. To know more about data and access management in the cloud, please refer to IT Support New Orleans.

About the Author

Bridget Juelich

Bridget Juelich is a sales & marketing manager at CommTech based in Metairie, Louisiana. CommTech has offered best-in-class IT Consulting New Orleans & Gulf State’s businesses for three decades. Bridget holds Bachelor’s Degree in Mass Communication/Public Relations from Loyola University New Orleans. Connect via LinkedIn.