Small and large enterprises continue to
benefit from increased digitization and greater use of cloud-based application
and storage facilities. Cloud services
are making it possible for businesses to place their information and data in
“containers” that can be deployed consistently and reliably.
The convenience and opportuneness of this solution often lead to serious se- cyber security breaches. Recently, Skybox Security calculates cyber risk vulnerability of container software at 240 times more today than in 2017. As alarming as this sounds, with wider deployment and use of container software and other cloud services, are expected to exacerbate the volume and sophistication of undesirable network access.
The Threats Plaguing Cloud
Cloud Security Alliance – a respected cyber
security collaborative on this issue - highlights a number of security
concerns.
From their survey of cloud users in different
industries, they developed an “Egregious Eleven” list of cyberthreats. Here are
the top five that should concern all users right now:
1. Data Breaches
Data leaks are more likely to result from
human error, network vulnerabilities, and outdated software than an intentional
orchestrated cyber-attack. Now that information of highest value is stored in
both company-controlled and externally operated actors, data leaks or breaches
should remain the number one concern of all computer users.
It is more important than ever for
organizations implement most up-to-date tools and measures to safeguard their
passwords, for example, using encryption technologies. Once passwords are
protected, customer’s credentials are secure. Some organizations may also opt
to access to their network. This simple
strategy employs multiple layers of security on customer accounts and,
therefore, company databases.
2. Insufficient or Inadequate Access Management
Phishers are masters of deception. Their improved modus operandi target unsuspecting and non-vigilant customers and employees around the clock. The main concern of management of IT systems is to thwart entry of hackers to confidential files, as a result of insufficient management and control systems. Automated responses and default installations are examples of weak credentialing practices still prevalent in the cyber community.
We cannot recommend strongly enough that
organizations regularly analyze their shared and public environments. This
could be the computers, the Wi-Fi router, or the smart appliances used in the
office. As the Internet of Things begins to be more and more influential in
major industries, these devices also need continuous maintenance and screening
to prevent possible breaches.
3. Insecure API management
Experts agree that insecure API
implementations are more likely to be exploited than traditional interfaces.
Cyber-criminals can search for existing vulnerabilities in the interfaces and
compromise data stored on the cloud. Very often, high-value enterprise data.
APIs should be designed with security concerns
as the number one priority. The most up to date of tools and strategies need to
be employed to ensure adequate secure authentication and control.
4. Insecure Systems, Insecure Systems, Insecure Systems
Beyond the interface, organizations should
also be concern about general system vulnerabilities. Cyber-criminals are among
the most knowledgeable experts in the systems they target or want to bring
under their control. Their expert
knowledge allows them to exploit any vulnerability.
5. Unforeseen Hijacking
Hijacking is more commonly known as identity
theft. The consequences of hijacking can be severe. Gaining control of an email
or twitter account seems commonplace. Every day, one or more influential person
loses momentary control of their personal accounts. Malicious actors can do
more than compromise personal reputations. They can monitor hidden transactions
and private activities, manipulate the data, and redirect users to site
imitations.
Hijacking becomes relatively easier in the
world of cloud computing where information is less contained. The multi-tenancy
trend means that data is spread across multiple storage devices, making it hard
for organizations to verify if the data had been securely deleted.
The good news is that though these are the top five concerns can be managed. Out of more than 7,000 cloud vulnerabilities have been published at the start of 2019, with only 659 of them have proved to be exploitable, for now. Industry experts suggest that only 1% of vulnerabilities will be exploited.
As we live in a growing digital world, our
personal and business lives are now becoming more integrated into the amorphous
and unwieldy cyberspace ecosystem. All users – individuals or groups of any
size– should ensure that they invest in the security of their prized data.
Wilson Consulting Group is an innovative
global cybersecurity consulting firm. We offer Cyber Intelligence, Cyber
Security Assessment, Penetration Testing and Vulnerability Assessment Services
to evaluate any threats that your organization may face and provide solutions
to combat them.
