There are several data loss risks in cloud storage. This arises due to factors such as security and compliance issues, as well as hacking and malicious deletions.
The global market for cloud storage is expected to grow further in the coming years. One of the driving factors being that the cloud allows customers to cut operational costs while improving reliability without investing heavily on in-house hardware, manpower, and skills. However, as the adoption of cloud storage continues to grow, consumers must be aware of the risks associated with the service. Before we look at the risks, let us first see the benefits of cloud storage.
Advantages of cloud storage
Generally, cloud storage and services provide businesses and other customers with flexibility, convenience, and scalability. The services are accessible from any location and using a wide variety of devices, including mobile phones, tablets, laptops, and desktop computers.
These devices can be standalone or integrated into local area networks as well as wide area networks where workers in remote locations can access the same service.
This allows the employees to collaborate and share data without being physically in the same place. Additionally, the company does not have to invest heavily and manage an in-house data center and staff. It also frees up the resources and employees’ time.
Data loss risks in cloud storage due to Compliance and security
Unless your cloud provider can confirm the physical location of your data, compliance with a certain country, industry and/or company rules may be near to impossible.
With data and services spread across several networks and locations in different countries, compliance becomes a challenge for cloud computing clients.
The security and compliance for a specific company can only be guaranteed if the cloud storage provider can confirm the physical location where the data is stored.
Top data loss risks in cloud storage for business
Some of the factors that increase data loss risks include but not limited to;
- Users uploading data
- Snooping
- Key Management
- Cloud Credentials
- Data Leakage
- No Control over Data
The typical data loss occurs due to
- User error: where users accidentally or overwrite or delete data
- Hacking: where outsiders get into the business systems;
- Closing accounts: when the subscription expires or cloud provider closes down, some do not care about the stored data
- Malicious delete: where users intentionally delete company data.
- Third Party Software where a third-party tool or application overwrites critical data.