Aren’t cloud platforms automatically secure?

Cloud environments are inherently complex, so security is a shared responsibility between cloud service providers and their clients. Unfortunately, many cloud users assume their cloud-based data and systems are secure because the cloud they use is advertised for its security. It is more complicated than that.

While quality cloud providers offer robust security measures, the onus is also on businesses to implement proper configurations and safeguards. Understanding how security functions in the cloud, from data encryption to access controls, is essential in ensuring your cloud system remains secure against potential threats. 

New Trends in Cloud Cybersecurity

As clouds become more popular, cyber attackers become more creative. In addition to baseline security measures, IT decision makers today need to be aware of changing trends in the cloud cybersecurity landscape.

Here are a few new trends to be familiar with:

• Zero Trust Segmentation: A growing trend in cloud security is the adoption of Zero Trust principles, which emphasize continuous verification of user access and network segmentation to prevent lateral movement of attackers within the cloud. Zero Trust greatly improves your security.
• Enhanced Visibility and Monitoring: As cloud environments become more complex, businesses are investing in tools that improve visibility into their cloud operations. This includes monitoring third-party applications and promptly detecting unusual activities. This visibility is essential, because in many cases businesses are not aware a breach has occurred until long after the fact, when significant damage has been done. The better you monitor your cloud system, the more likely you are to find early signs of a cyber attack.
• AI-Powered Threat Detection: Artificial Intelligence (AI) is being increasingly used to identify and respond to threats in real-time, reducing the reaction time to potential breaches. Explore AI tools available on your platform to increase your security.
• Multi-Cloud or Hybrid Security Strategies: With many businesses utilizing multiple cloud services, there’s a growing emphasis on securing hybrid and multi-cloud environments through unified security policies and practices. To do this effectively, speak to a specialist who can construct an overarching security strategy for your multi-cloud or hybrid environment.
• Compliance Automation: To stay ahead of regulatory requirements, companies are adopting automated tools that ensure continuous compliance across their cloud infrastructure. This is especially valuable if you are in a highly regulated industry.

Recommendations to Keep Your Cloud Secure

Keeping your cloud environment secure is not a matter of changing a few configurations or running a few tools. It is an ongoing strategy to ensure your entire IT system – and therefore your entire business – is safe. Consider starting with these options:

• Implement Zero Trust Architecture: Adopt a Zero Trust model to ensure that all users and devices are continuously authenticated, authorized, and validated.
• Regularly Review and Update Security Policies: Ensure that your cloud security policies are up-to-date with the latest threats and include regular audits and updates.
• Invest in AI-Driven Security Solutions: Use AI and machine learning to detect and respond to threats more swiftly and accurately.
• Enhance Cloud Visibility: Deploy advanced monitoring tools that offer comprehensive visibility across your entire cloud environment.