Cloud storage is a cloud computing service that enables a company to store data in the cloud instead of on-site data storage. This model offers a convenient way to keep files on a third-party server and provide employees with on-demand access to data from any device.
One of the most critical aspects of cloud security is to ensure that only authorized personnel such as you and your employees have access to the documents and files stored in the cloud. Ultimately, the responsibility of securing your cloud lies between you and the cloud storage provider. If you do plan to adopt cloud storage for your business, it is imperative that you take measures to protect your data through secure passwords, two-factor authentication, as well as limits and controls on access.
Common use cases for cloud storage are:
- Data backups.
- Primary file storage (most common in a hybrid and multi-cloud setup).
- Email storage.
- Disaster Recovery as a Service (DRaaS) for responding to unforeseen events.
- File archives.
- Test and development environments for DevOps teams spinning up storage resources.
As cloud-stored data does not reside on an on-prem server, a company using a public cloud must in part rely on the provider to keep data safe. The good news is that a top vendor’s data centre uses various practices to ensure data remains secure.
1.Data Encryption
A cloud provider must encrypt cloud data. That way, if a malicious actor or program accesses a file, all the unauthorized user will find is scrambled data. The only way to decipher data is to use a decryption key. A provider should encrypt data both at rest and in transit:
- Encryption at rest protects stored cloud data that is not currently in use
- Encryption in transit protects data while files move between two cloud or network points
A company can boost cloud storage security with client-side encryption. With this strategy, encryption and decryption happen on the target user’s device. There are no encryptions or decryptions on the provider’s server as the vendor does not keep any keys. Even if a hacker breaches the provider’s server, the thief will not obtain your decryption key.
2.Use Strong Passwords and Two-Factor Authentication
All the standard security tips apply to your cloud accounts as well: Choose long and unique passwords that are difficult to guess, and use a password manager. Keep your passwords secret and safe and be wary of any attempts to get you to part with them (in an unexpected email, for example).
You should also switch on two-factor authentication (2FA) if it’s available (most popular cloud storage services now support it). Enabling 2FA means unwelcome visitors won’t be able to get at your cloud storage files even if they know your username and password—another code from your phone will be required as well.
3.Zero-Knowledge Authentication
Zero-knowledge authentication prevents others from reading and viewing your data. As a matter of fact, using this type of authentication provides you with a key access password. It means that the provider does not store encryption keys or user passwords in unencrypted or unhashed form. Therefore, it ensures that no one, not even the provider, can access your content.
The downside to this approach is that if you lose your password, it is permanently lost because the service provider can’t reset it for you. To lessen the risk, it is best that you consider using a password manager. Regardless, don’t forget to create a strong password that you can remember. Only a few cloud storage providers in the market, adopt zero-knowledge authentication methods as part of their security features.
4.Manage Shared Files Actively
When you share a folder or file, it is usually in the form of a link or giving permission using their email address. If you have shared something via email, it should be safe from any future unauthorized access, unless the user who you shared it with has been compromised. However, if you have shared a link for some of your files and folders, you might want to disable it later. If you do not, an attacker may come across the link and easily download the files that you did not intend to share with everyone. Every cloud storage service provides a way to manage the files and links shared, so you should keep an eye on those. Also keep an eye on:
- New sign-ins.
- Account activity.
- Data shares.
- File deletion.
- Unusual and suspicious activity.
5.Have a Backup of Your Cloud Data
When it comes to managing data, it’s vital to get it backed up. Generally speaking, it is good practice to create electronic copies for any of your data so that you will still be able to access it even when the original is lost or has been corrupted. Many rely on the cloud as the convenient way to have a backup of their data and often delete those files from the storage drive to free up space. While that is a clever way to manage storage space on your device, it may not be the safest method. You should always have a copy of your data in a physical storage drive in case you lose access to your cloud storage service for any reason.
Conclusion
Cloud storage has made things easier and more convenient. All you need is a decent Internet connection to start using it. Make sure that you are actively aware of every activity related to your cloud storage to ensure the security of your files. It is easy to keep your cloud storage safe, but you should not completely depend on your service provider. A few actions from your side will help keep your data secure.
