Is My Data Safe on the Cloud?

Encrypted Files 

Files stored on the cloud are encrypted, meaning that the files are protected, and only someone with the right encryption key/access (you) can decrypt them. This way of scrambling your data makes the files much harder for hackers to get into, as not even your cloud provider can decrypt your files or access their contents. This is a common procedure in the cloud storage industry, and it is often referred to as end-to-end or zero-knowledge encryption.

Consistent Updates

Cloud service providers are also constantly checking for updates and maintenance, making sure that no update is passed over or missed. The reason for this is simple; many times updates contain fixes or solutions to bugs or weak links in a program, and by staying the most up-to-date on all of your updates you make sure not to miss anything important. Since these updates can be missed easily on a personal device, most cloud services are a bit more regimented when it comes to routine updates.

Protection Tools

Professional cloud service providers often have multiple tools in their belt to help keep your data safe, including firewalls, AI tools and auto-patching. Firewalls are used to filter out any suspicious traffic coming into a network, keeping your data behind a “wall.” This makes it more difficult for hackers to sneak malware or viruses through. AI (artificial intelligence) programs and auto-patching rely on built-in algorithms to seek out and identify any possible weaknesses or vulnerabilities in security measures, constantly overseeing your data and making sure that it’s safe. Patches are used to eliminate entry points and to ensure proper security.

Redundancy

Most of the biggest cloud providers also practice a thing called redundancy, a communications pathway that has additional links to connect all nodes in case one link goes down. So, since the data you store in the cloud actually lives on physical servers, redundancy means that each file is actually copied multiple times and then exists on multiple servers, in independent data centers around the US or even around the world.

This basically means that they keep your data extra backed-up, in the case of a power outage, hardware failure, natural disaster, etc. This backed-up data will remain available to you no matter what happens, keeping it consistently safe and accessible. This system is so fail-safe that Amazon Web Services estimates the chance of losing your data from the cloud is just one in 100 billion.

Constant Monitoring

Most major cloud storage providers have dedicated operations centers staffed with experts in cybersecurity working around the clock. These teams are specifically trained to monitor activity and look for any potential threats. They also have the tools necessary to block out any threats or intruders.  

Your cloud provider will also often hire outside security companies to test their servers and software regularly, making sure they are safe from hackers, cybercriminals and the latest malware and viruses. This outside testing boosts the odds that your cloud provider will have the defenses needed to keep your files away from hackers.

Most data centers also ensure the security of the physical servers which hold your data, and keep them patrolled around the clock by professional security teams. These important servers are often kept in locked cages as an extra precaution against theft.

Disconnect Your Devices

When you are not using it, always log out of your cloud account, and make sure to turn on the automatic time-out feature if your cloud provider offers it. If your computer, smartphone, and other devices stay logged in to your cloud storage account when you’re not using them, that provides a potential entry point for intruders. Also, by leaving your devices logged in, you allow anyone who gets hold of your device to break into your cloud storage.

Turn On Two-Factor Authentication

Two-factor authentication provides an additional step for you to access your data, therefore making it twice as safe and protected. Often this means that you must provide a password and one-time verification code in order to access your files. These codes are sent to your email or device, so even if a hacker guesses your password they are still locked out.

Check Shared Files

It is important to periodically audit which files and folders you’ve shared from your cloud account, and revoke access for anyone who no longer needs it. If your cloud provider offers links with passwords and expiration dates, put these features to use instead of sharing unrestricted access to your files. This can protect your information in the long-run.