10 Real Security Concerns With Public Cloud

The What and Why of Cloud Security

Cloud security refers to the practices, technologies, policies, and measures designed to safeguard data, applications, and infrastructure in cloud environments. ¹

Cloud security addresses the unique security challenges and risks associated with cloud computing, including services such as IaaS, PaaS, and SaaS.

It’s not the security of the cloud itself that is often the challenge, but rather the policies and technologies for security and control of the technology that need to be managed by the users.

Gartner reports that 99% of cloud breaches are traced back to preventable misconfigurations or mistakes by cloud customers.²

Here are ten real security concerns with public cloud that organizations should be aware of:³

1. Lack of control: The cloud provider manages public cloud services, which means that users have limited control over the implemented security measures.
   

2. Multi-tenancy risks: Public cloud services are often multi-tenant, meaning multiple users share the same physical infrastructure. If not managed properly, this can increase the risk of data leakage or unauthorized access.
   

3. Data breaches through APIs: Public cloud services often use APIs to enable integration with other systems, which can create vulnerabilities if these APIs are not secured properly.
   

4. Data exposure through misconfigured services: Public cloud services can be vulnerable to data exposure if services are misconfigured or access controls have not been set up properly.
   

5. Unauthorized access: Public cloud services can be vulnerable to unauthorized access, which can lead to data breaches and the exposure of sensitive information.
   

6. Compliance issues: Public cloud services may not always meet regulatory and compliance requirements for data storage and security.
   

7. Insider threats: Cloud providers have access to users’ data, which means that insider threats can pose a risk to security.
   

8. Data loss: Public cloud services can suffer from data loss, which can occur due to hardware failures or other technical issues.
   

9. Vulnerabilities in third-party tools: Public cloud services often rely on third-party tools and vendors, which can create vulnerabilities if these vendors are not properly vetted or have weak security measures in place.
   

10. DDoS attacks: Public cloud services can be vulnerable to distributed denial of service (DDoS) attacks, which can disrupt service availability.
    

So what?

Recognizing these vulnerabilities and implementing countermeasures is crucial. This includes enforcing robust authentication, monitoring activities, conducting audits, and encrypting sensitive information.

Partnering with trusted cloud providers known for their security and compliance is also vital.

In reality, many organizations lack the technical skills to secure their cloud environment, so partnering with a Managed Service Provider specialized in Cloud Security is essential.

Jetro WILS is the founder of BlueDragon Security, where he helps organizations operate safely in this cloud era by strengthening their digital security and compliance.

Disclaimer: This article is written in a personal capacity, and the views expressed are solely mine. They do not represent the positions, strategies, or opinions of my clients, who bear no responsibility for this content.

1. Mastering Cloud Security Posture Management (CSPM), Q. Nomani

2. Takeaways from Gartner's 2021 Hype Cycle for Cloud Security report | VentureBeat

3. Mastering Cloud Security Posture Management (CSPM), Q. Nomani