Cloud computing is the delivery of computing services over the Internet (the internet). This includes servers, storage, databases and software. This allows users to access these resources whenever they need them, and without having to maintain or build their own infrastructure.
There are three major types of cloud computing services:
- Infrastructure as a Service: This is the simplest form of cloud computing. Users can rent virtualized infrastructure such as servers, storage and networking on a per-use basis. IaaS providers provide the infrastructure and hardware, while users install and manage the operating system, middleware and applications.
- Platform as a Service: PaaS refers to a cloud computing model that allows users to develop, manage, and run applications without having to worry about the infrastructure. PaaS providers provide a platform to build, deploy, and manage applications. Users are responsible for maintaining and developing the applications.
- Software as a Service: SaaS refers to a cloud computing model that allows users to access and use software applications over the Internet. They don’t need to install or maintain the application on their own computers. SaaS providers manage the infrastructure and maintenance of the application, and host it and maintain it.
These are the top 10 cloud security threats and their brief explanations.
- Data breaches: Unauthorized individuals can gain access to sensitive cloud data. This can happen due to weak passwords, system vulnerabilities, or successful Phishing attacks.
- Insider threats are those that originate within an organization. These include employees and contractors who have access to the cloud, and who may intentionally or unintentionally cause harm or damage to the system or data.
- Account hijacking: An unauthorized person can gain access to an account of a user and then access the data and resources stored on the cloud. This can happen through weak passwords and successful phishing attacks.
- Malware: Software that can harm or exploit systems. It can be sent via email attachments and websites.
- Attacks on denial of service (DoS), or traffic and requests overloading: These attacks are designed to render a system or service inaccessible to users.
- APIs that are not secured: APIs (Application Programming Interfaces), allow applications and systems to communicate with one another. These APIs can be exploited to gain access to resources and data if they are not properly secured.
- Cloud resources that aren’t properly configured: This can make them vulnerable to attacks. This could include not setting up access controls properly or leaving default settings.
- Lack of visibility and monitoring: It can be difficult for organizations to respond quickly to threats if they don’t have the right visibility and monitoring.
- Shadow IT: This is the misuse of unapproved cloud-based services or applications within an organization. If they aren’t properly approved and vetted by the security team, these can pose security risks.
- Training of employees is lacking: Employees who aren’t properly trained in cloud security may be exposing themselves to security risks such as weak passwords and falling prey to phishing attacks.
It is crucial for organizations to ensure that they have strong security measures in place to guard against these threats and others. These security measures include enforcing strong passwords and regularly updating applications and systems. It also includes training employees to use the cloud securely.