Although cloud computing brings a lot of benefits, there are also some risks that users need to be aware of. This article will mention about the top 5 common risks and threats of this technology. 

It is undeniable that cloud computing brings many benefits to individuals and organizations, especially in the 4.0 era. However, using this technology also comes with some risks that require users to be aware of and manage carefully. Below are the top 5 common risks and threats when using cloud computing that users should address. 

Constraints with providers

Once a business has migrated data and applications to the cloud, it will be difficult and costly to move them to another service provider. This can limit your options in the future and create a constraint with the current provider. Therefore, it is important to consider a flexible cloud strategy. 

Choosing a reputable and experienced provider is important in cloud computing technology

When storing data in the cloud, users need to trust the provider’s ability to protect their information. Sometimes, users may lose their important data in case the provider lacks effective data protection measures. Users need to ensure that the provider can deliver high-quality services to minimize the risks. Therefore, choosing a reputable and experienced provider is an important step in using cloud computing technology. 

Data breaches

The primary security risk of cloud computing is inadequate security measures, which leads to data breaches. When storing data in the cloud, businesses must comply with applicable data privacy and regulations such as GDPR (General Data Protection Decree). Non-compliance can cause serious legal consequences and potential risks for businesses. According to Statista, a leading provider of consumer and market data in Germany, more than 53 million people in the United States were affected by a data breach during the same period. 

In addition, data can be stolen by hackers or cloud service provider’s dishonest employees. Cybercriminals can use many strategies to attach business data. To avoid data breaches, users need to ensure that the service provider complies with privacy regulations and implements strong security measures. 

API Security Risks 

API (Application Programming Interface) acts as a bridge between applications and services, allowing them to share data securely and efficiently. They can be used in many different fields such as web development, mobile applications, system integration, and software development. 

Users need to be aware of API Security risks when using cloud computing

API vulnerabilities could provide internet criminals with an avenue to steal users’ or employees’ login credentials. Businesses need to understand that API and user interfaces are the most externally exposed parts of the system. Therefore, we should enhance the security of these components from the design stage when building them. Users need to strictly implement several items such as inventory, testing, auditing and protection, and warning of abnormal activities.  

Malware infection 

When using cloud computing, the risk of malware infection is very high due to the diversity and complexity of the cloud environment. Malware can be transmitted through different means such as emails, attachments, unsecured websites, or through security holes in the system.

There are some ways that malware can infect cloud environments. Users may upload unsafe files containing malicious code to cloud storage services. Malware can also spread through sharing files and folders in cloud storage, which infects multiple users. In addition, when an email containing malware is opened, it can infect aloud-based email systems and spread to other users. 

To prevent malware infection when using cloud computing, users need to comply with basic security measures such as not opening files of unknown origin, updating software periodically, using software confidentiality, and safe sharing of information.

Weak control platform 

The control foundation will be weak if the people in charge of these processes do not have full control over the logic, security, and verification of the data infrastructure. For example, weakness in identity management could result in users not having access to the data or applications they need. It can even result in unauthorized persons being able to access important information. 

A weak control platform is a risk when using cloud computing

To mitigate these risks, users need to implement suitable information security measures, including effective identity management, device connectivity control, and the use of DDoS attack prevention solutions. 

Above are some risks that users need to consider when using cloud computing. However, these risks can be significantly reduced if users know how to implement and manage them carefully. Being aware of potential risks and threats is important to ensure the safety and security of your data and system in today’s cloud environment.