The cloud is the new frontier for businesses of any size. It offers several benefits, including scalability, flexibility, and cost-effectiveness; however, the cloud also comes with new security challenges at every turn.

Traditional security playbooks are no longer effective in the cloud because cloud providers are constantly adding new features and services, making it difficult to keep up with the latest security threats.

It is crucial to embrace a fresh approach toward security to safeguard data stored in the cloud. Here are key principles to remember as you implement best practices in cloud security:

1. The cloud is a dynamic and ever-changing environment.

Like an intricately constructed labyrinth, the cloud is replete with a network of interconnected pathways. Within this expanse are a multitude of revolving doors and windows, further adding to the complexity of the cloud’s architecture.

The challenge with this architecture lies in the uncertainty of identifying open access points and comprehending the contents they conceal, thereby rendering conventional security approaches inadequate.

While achieving 100-percent fortification is impossible, proactive measures can be taken to prevent unauthorized entry by malicious actors.

What You Can Do

• • Assume Breach. Don’t wait for an attack to happen. Assume that your data has already been compromised and take steps to protect it.
  • Implement Least Privilege. Only giving users the access they need to do their jobs will help reduce the risk of unauthorized access to your data.
  • Use Strong Encryption. Encrypt all of your data, both at rest and in transit. This will make it much more difficult for attackers to access your data even if they do manage to breach your systems.
  • Monitor Your Environment. Use security tools to monitor your cloud environment for signs of attack. This will help you quickly detect and respond to attacks.
    
    

2. Developers are the gatekeepers of cloud security.

Developers can have an outsized influence on cloud security because they are often pressured to build quickly, leading to otherwise preventable security mistakes such as setting weak passwords or not encrypting data properly.

It is essential to provide developers with the proper training, tools, and support they need to build secure applications. Developers should be taught about the security risks of cloud computing and how to mitigate them. They should also be given access to security tools to help them identify and fix security vulnerabilities in their code. 

What You Can Do

If you don’t have the resources or know-how to support your developers as much as you’d like, consider working with a partner like UDT. We offer a range of solutions that can help you proactively audit and address security risks, educate your team on best practices, optimize your use of the cloud and more.

3. There’s no one-size-fits-all solution to cloud security.

Beware of cloud security providers promising to solve all your security problems. For example, your home may have the best physical security features, like surveillance and alarm systems—but if you leave your doors and windows open, your house will still be vulnerable to attack. The same is valid for cloud security.

What You Can Do

Cloud providers may offer a variety of security features, but they don’t always account for human errors. By taking a holistic approach to cloud security through user training and policies, organizations can help protect their data from both internal and external threats.

4. AI is a double-edged sword.

AI systems are vulnerable to cyber attacks and other tampering. This could allow attackers to gain access or control of the system and steal sensitive information or disrupt operations. Organizations must take steps to secure their AI systems to mitigate these risks.

Of course, AI can also be highly effective in improving user experience and security outcomes. For example, AI can answer customer questions about security, detect security incidents, and automate security tasks.

What You Can Do

In the future, AI will play an increasingly important role in security. Organizations should take steps now to secure their AI systems or risk being left at a significant disadvantage when it comes to protecting their IT infrastructure from AI-related vulnerabilities.

5. Cloud security is a shared responsibility.

To adopt a future-ready mindset and ensure robust security measures are in place to stay ahead of evolving threats in the cloud, organizations must acknowledge that cloud security is a shared responsibility. 

While cloud providers are accountable for safeguarding the underlying infrastructure, organizations must also prioritize the security of their invaluable data and applications. 

Failure to fully grasp this essential concept could create security gaps, jeopardizing the integrity and confidentiality of your data in the long run.

What You Can Do

UDT has over 25 years of expertise delivering cybersecurity and cloud solutions for organizations just like yours.

If you’re interested in exploring how UDTSecure or our Digital Transformation solutions can benefit your organization, we invite you to book a consultation with one of our experts. Together, we can strengthen your defenses and protect your valuable assets in today’s evolving cybersecurity landscape.