Businesses that use the cloud to store valuable information such as employee data, vendor details, and transaction records are prime targets for cybercriminals. This is why cloud data security should be a priority for any business owner, whether they run an enterprise or a small business.
As businesses worldwide start to adopt work from home setups because of the COVID-19 pandemic, protecting your cloud data is more crucial than ever. Here are some cloud data security best practices to keep in mind:
Back up your data
When backing up your data, remember to follow the 3-2-1 rule. This rule states that there should be at least three copies of your data, with two backup copies stored in different storage devices, and one copy stored in an off-site location. This way, even if your data in the cloud gets corrupted, you’ll still have a copy of your files that you can retrieve and use.
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Use data encryption tools
Encryption is the process of turning data into unreadable codes, so that even if a cybercriminal were able to get a hold of encrypted files, they wouldn’t be able to read them without a decryption key. For maximum data protection, you should encrypt your data before uploading it to the cloud, as some hackers will try to intercept it while in transit.
Enable multifactor authentication (MFA)
Multifactor authentication verifies the identity of a specific user multiple times to ensure that the person trying to access the data is who they say they are. Aside from passwords, MFA requires a unique identifier, such as a fingerprint or a one-time code sent to a pre-registered number, in order to confirm identity. If hackers can’t provide any of these user-specific codes, they won’t be given access to your computer systems — even if they crack the username-password combination.
Avoid storing sensitive information in the cloud
Always err on the side of caution and assume that cybercriminals will be able to steal your data. As such, you should limit the amount of sensitive information you store in the cloud. For instance, apps that don’t capture payment information can be hosted in the cloud, but be wary of software that can store private data like Social Security numbers. Hackers can steal such information to commit identity theft.
Read the fine print of your cloud agreement
Cloud security should be a shared responsibility between cloud providers and business owners. Before signing a contract, make sure you understand who’s responsible for the security of applications, virtual machines, operating systems, data storage facilities, and other hardware and software involved in your cloud technology setup.
The assignment of responsibilities varies depending on the service model. For example, a client using the Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) model will have different responsibilities from a client who’s using Infrastructure-as-a-Service (IaaS) model, so skipping over service legal agreements shouldn’t be an option.
Practice good cybersecurity habits
Human error plays a big role in whether or not cyberattacks are successful. Connecting to unsecured public Wi-Fi, not signing out of apps, and failing to update security patches on employee-owned devices are all poor cybersecurity practices that can compromise data security.
Train your workforce to be wary of their actions, especially when using a public internet connection or personal devices. Also, train them on how to spot phishing emails so they don’t unwittingly click on malicious links or give sensitive information to hackers.
For complete cloud security solutions, partner with a trusted technology company: Kortek Solutions. We have been helping small- and medium-sized businesses in the Las Vegas area get the most out of their information technology for over 18 years, and we can help your business do that too. Drop us a line at 702-242-4862 or send us a message today.