Keep Data Secure In The Cloud

As organizations slowly shift more of their systems to the cloud, it’s essential to understand how to keep that data secure. 

Data security in the cloud is not a one-size-fits-all approach, and there are many factors to consider based on the type of cloud services you’re using and the nature of your data.

The Cloud

To begin, let’s clarify what we mean by "cloud" using the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) definition, which is also referenced by the Federal Financial Institutions Examination Council (FFIEC). According to NIST, a true cloud service meets certain criteria: it's available to the public, anyone can sign up, and resources are dynamically allocated. Well-known examples include Dropbox, Gmail, and Microsoft OneDrive. These services are designed to be broadly accessible with easy, self-service setup, making them technically classified as cloud services under NIST’s definition.

However, many of our clients and some examiners have expanded the definition to include all things web-based. Traditionally known as Software-as-a-Service (SAAS), these services are hosted by the vendor and accessed via web browser so they look like a Cloud solution. 

To keep data safe in the Cloud, do not use true Cloud services for sensitive data unless you have a reasonable assurance of security. For example, ShareFile hosted by Citrix are reputable brands that offer relatively secure Cloud file storage. When using these information security services it is still a good idea to encrypt sensitive data before moving them online.

Tips for Keeping Data Secure in the Cloud

• Evaluate Cloud Provider Security
  Not all cloud services are suitable for sensitive data storage. When choosing a cloud provider, especially for critical or sensitive data, it’s vital to assess the security measures they have in place. Opt for reputable providers like Citrix’s ShareFile or Barracuda’s Copy.com, which offer enhanced security features and are specifically designed with business data protection in mind.
• Encrypt Data Before Uploading
  Even if a cloud provider offers secure file storage, adding an extra layer of protection by encrypting your sensitive data before uploading it is a smart practice. Encryption helps ensure that even if your data were accessed by unauthorized parties, it would be unreadable without the encryption key. Many organizations use encryption tools such as VeraCrypt or BitLocker to secure data locally before it’s transferred to the cloud.
• Use Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
  Enable multi-factor authentication for any cloud services that support it. MFA requires users to provide additional verification beyond just a password, such as a code sent to their phone or generated by an authentication app. This significantly reduces the risk of unauthorized access in case of a compromised password.
• Implement Strong Access Controls
  Control who has access to your cloud-based resources. Use role-based access control (RBAC) to ensure that employees and collaborators can only access the data they need for their specific roles. Regularly review and update these permissions, especially when roles change or employees leave the organization.
• Regularly Back Up Data
  While cloud providers offer various levels of data protection, it’s still crucial to maintain regular backups. Backups should be stored in a separate location—either on a different cloud platform or on-premises. This ensures you have access to your data in the event of a service outage, accidental deletion, or data corruption in your primary cloud environment.
• Monitor and Audit Cloud Usage
  Keep a close eye on cloud service usage within your organization. Many cloud services offer activity logs or dashboards to track user access and actions. Regularly auditing this information can help detect suspicious activity early, allowing you to respond swiftly to potential security incidents.

Automated Mapping and Evidence Collection

When it comes to cloud security, one powerful yet often underutilized strategy is leveraging automation to streamline security processes. As organizations expand their cloud environments, the complexity of managing security across multiple services, accounts, and geographic regions can quickly become overwhelming. Automated mapping and evidence-collection tools can help maintain comprehensive security coverage while reducing manual effort and human error. 

Schedule a call to explore our industry-vetted, all-in-one platform that can simplify your cloud security compliance.