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A transformation has been underway for quite some time in the way computer services are provided and data is stored. Cloud computing is on the rise. Many people mistakenly assume that their data is safe in the cloud. While cloud computing offers users flexibility and convenience, it can also open the door to cybersecurity breaches. Not only should users be concerned that these breaches can result in privacy loss or identity compromise, but security concerns can also result in more general data loss. There are several causes of data loss from the cloud and all users should consider a comprehensive Data Loss Prevention (DLP) plan.
Accidental Deletion of Data
The most obvious cause of data loss is also the most likely to be the reason behind data’s sudden disappearance. Many cloud computing systems offer the benefit of working with a team that may be located in various locations. The allure of this convenience has to be balanced with the risk that the greater the number of people with access to data, the larger the chances of accidental deletion. Solution: Educate your team members. Restrict access to only what’s needed and always-back up your data.
Scan your Cloud-Based Data
No cloud-based environment is totally safe. Ensuring that you don’t have sensitive information stored on your cloud is a proactive first step to developing a DLP plan. Marshal offers a free scan to search services, like Dropbox and Google Drive, for threats like social security numbers, credit card numbers, and email addresses. Solution: Use trusted and well-established cloud-based services. Stay alert to major breaches.
Use Apps with Caution
We’ve written before about the best tools to sync files between storage services. As more people store data in multiple cloud services, there’s an increased need to sync and easily move between these services. Unfortunately, this demand opens the doors for hackers and malicious software. Rogue applications may claim to delete duplicate files but actually result in data loss. Solution: Backup your data regularly. Monitor backups and ensure that recovery only requires a few clicks.
Storing data in the cloud isn’t without risks. It shouldn’t be overlooked though that cloud computing comes with a wide array of benefits. The flexibility offered by the cloud dramatically reduces cost, oversight needs, and waste. Since data isn’t exclusively stored in a user’s hard drive, data isn’t necessarily lost with equipment failure. Many of the same strategies in the most proactive DLP plans can be equally as effective in protecting data stored in the cloud. While we always urge individuals to back up their data, Secure Data offers DIY options for recovery and our team is always standing by ready to help recover your lost data.
