The cloud has changed how we work and live. 

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It's made it easier to store data, collaborate, and access information from anywhere. You can be in a café in Barcelona while meeting with your team across different time zones worldwide. Cloud technology even allows you to build an asynchronous team.

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While it’s convenient, it comes with its challenges and risks. According to IBM, data storage in the cloud experienced 82% of all breaches in 2023. 

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The very qualities that make the cloud so appealing – ease of access and flexibility – can also create security risks if not managed properly. 

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In this blog post, we'll show you how to securely make use of cloud technology

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What is the cloud?

At its core, the cloud is a virtual storage space on the internet where you can keep your files, run applications, or even host entire systems. 

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Unlike traditional storage systems, where files are saved on your computer’s hard drive, cloud services allow you to store and retrieve your information online. 

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Think of the cloud as a digital safety deposit box. The provider offers a secure vault, but it's your responsibility to safeguard it with strong protection and keep the keys safe.

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Cloud providers manage and maintain these servers, offering various services like storage, computing power, and software applications. 

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This allows individuals and businesses to access and use these resources on demand without investing in and managing their own infrastructure.

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Understanding the shared responsibility model

One of the biggest misconceptions about cloud security is that it’s only the provider's responsibility. Instead, it’s a partnership between you and the provider. 

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You can liken it to renting an apartment. Your landlord is responsible for the building's structure and overall security, but you're responsible for locking your door and protecting your belongings. Similarly, cloud providers handle the security of the cloud (the infrastructure), while you're responsible for the security in the cloud (your data and applications).

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How to stay safe in the cloud

1. Use strong passwords or passphrases

Weak passwords are like unlocking your door with an open invitation to hackers. 

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Ensure your cloud accounts are secured with unique, complex passwords that combine letters, numbers, and special characters. Passphrases are even better. 

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A passphrase is a longer password made up of random but memorable words strung together. For example, “SunflowerHorseBattery!94” is easier to remember but harder for hackers to crack than a random password like “Pa$$w0rd.”

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2. Regularly review permissions

One of the easiest ways to lose control of your data in the cloud is by overlooking who has access to it. 

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Over time, you may share files or folders with colleagues, third parties, or even former employees without updating or revoking their permissions. Regularly reviewing and managing these permissions is critical to maintaining control and preventing unauthorised access. 

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Outdated permissions can lead to data leaks, intentional misuse, or accidental exposure. Without regular reviews, you risk exposing sensitive information to people who no longer need access to it.

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3. Enable multi-factor authentication (MFA)

A strong password is essential, but it’s not always enough.

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Cybercriminals can still find ways to steal or guess your credentials. That’s why enabling Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) is important.

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MFA adds an extra layer of protection by requiring a second form of verification in addition to your password. 

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Top cloud providers, like Google Drive, OneDrive, and Amazon Web Services (AWS), offer easy-to-set-up MFA options. Enable it for all your accounts, especially those storing sensitive data. 

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For additional security, you can also use an authentication app like Google Authenticator or Microsoft Authenticator.

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4. Choose trusted cloud providers

Choosing a trusted cloud provider is one of the most important steps to securing your information. 

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While many providers offer secure and reliable services, others may lack the robust safeguards to protect your data. Look for providers with strong reputations and proven security measures. 

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Certifications like ISO 27001, SOC 2, or GDPR compliance are good indicators that the provider follows strict security protocols to protect your data. 

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By sticking to reliable cloud providers, you can focus on enjoying the benefits of the cloud without constantly worrying about the safety of your data.

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5. Be wary of phishing emails

Phishing emails are one of the most common tricks cybercriminals use to target cloud accounts. 

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These emails often look convincing, mimicking legitimate messages from trusted organizations or cloud providers. 

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Phishing scams are becoming increasingly sophisticated, using personalization and professional formatting to trick even the most cautious users. Always double-check the sender’s email address, as phishing emails often use slightly altered domains to look legitimate.

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Avoid clicking on links in suspicious emails. Instead, go directly to the cloud provider’s website or application to verify the claim.

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6. Stay updated

Cyber threats and cloud vulnerabilities constantly evolve. So, stay informed about the latest risks and security practices. 

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Attackers are always finding new ways to exploit systems. This means outdated software or a lack of awareness can expose your cloud data. 

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Regular updates ensure that security flaws are patched and new features are implemented to strengthen protection. Turn on automatic updates for your devices and apps whenever possible. 

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Check your cloud provider’s security news or blog for updates on new threats and how to protect yourself.

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Conclusion

The cloud offers endless possibilities for innovation, collaboration, and convenience, but it’s essential to be mindful of the risks. 

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Protecting your data in the cloud doesn’t require technical expertise; it just requires your commitment to practice good security habits. By taking these simple steps, you can significantly improve your security posture and protect your valuable data.

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