The “cloud,” or the ability to store data amongst a network of remote servers, is becoming one of the most popular ways to manage valuable organizational information. In fact, the U.S. Army, Air Force, Navy, federal government, and more have all turned to cloud computing and cloud computing migration for data storage needs. While the cloud can be a fantastic way to efficiently store and manage data over a multitude of network users, one criticism of the cloud is its lack of security.
While the claim that the cloud isn’t secure is unfounded, there are certain steps that an individual, business, or organization can take to ensure complete data security in the cloud.
Choose High Security Passwords
In order to protect your data from others’ eyes, make sure that you choose a password to access your intelligence that is on a high-security level. Passwords should include a combination of lowercase and uppercase letters, numbers, and symbols. Passwords that are limited to letters alone are much more vulnerable. Additionally, make sure you’re using different passwords for different accounts – using the same password for all of your more important information is dangerous, and highly inadvisable.
You should also consider encrypting all cloud data. When cloud data is encrypted, it will not be readable without an encryption key. This means that in the off chance that your cloud account is accessed, your data will not be able to be read. If you’re in the process of cloud computing migration, seeking cloud computing solutions for encryption information is advised.
Limit Access to Cloud Data
If you’re a large company or organization with multiple employees, limit access to cloud data to those essential employees only. It’s likely that your store clerks don’t need access to cloud data, and by sharing it, you’re increasing the risk of information getting in the wrong hands. While employee trust has nothing to do with it, the more times a password is given out, the more likely it is to be lost/misplaced/stolen. To ensure that this doesn’t happen to you, only grant access to the cloud to those people on your team whose cloud access is essential.
Consider Implementing a Mobile Device Policy
Most people in 2014 are guilty of storing highly sensitive data on their phones, and many use their phones to access everything from bank account information to company intelligence. If your employees have access to the cloud through their mobile phones, consider implementing a mobile device policy. While you don’t have to tell employees that they can’t use their phones, you should implement a policy that requires an employee who has access to cloud data to notify you or a superior if their phone is stolen or lost. A policy such as this allows you time to change passwords or encryption information in the case that passwords are lost.
Seek Professional Cloud Services
If you’re new to the cloud and now sure how it can help your business, or don’t know how to safely store your data, make sure you seek professional help. Microsoft cloud computing solutions, for example, can guide you through your user agreement, and provide you with security tips and tricks. Plus, events and webcasts are also offered, allowing you more opportunities to learn about your business’s cloud data.