Cloud computing has become part of the IT strategy used by both companies and individuals in recent years for storing data. However, with any new development in IT and computing, the question surrounding security is raised. Spector IT knows how important it is for companies and individuals to ensure that their identity and data are kept safe and secure at all times.

When moving to the cloud there are a number of steps and processes that you can take to ensure that your identity and data will be protected from both internal and external risks:

Assess your cloud provider

When moving to a cloud service provider, individuals may often feel that there is a lack of transparency surrounding how their data will be handled, especially in the event of data loss or a data breach. For this reason, it is important to assess your cloud service provider and their security protocols such as security policies and disaster recovery systems. Spector IT provides a range of solutions both on public and Spector IT’s private cloud infrastructure that ensure data security and backup using our centralised policy management.

Look for standards

Make sure that your chosen cloud service provider meets the industry recognised standards needed to ensure identity and data security. Depending on the country in which you live these standards will vary but the most widely recognised include ISO 27001 and CSA STAR.

Use robust password protection

Password security is one of the most important requirements for moving to the cloud. People have a tendency to use the same passwords for multiple software applications, email addresses and websites. Putting secure password protection policies in place, changing your passwords often or alternatively using a strong passphrase will help reduce your risk of exposure to your data on the cloud.

Ensure secure remote access

As cross-device accessibility to the cloud has become the norm, it is important to ensure that all of your devices are secure. Spector IT advise our clients to implement Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) security policies and a strong user access control framework within your organisations to ensure mobile security on all devices. If you are using a public cloud service provider for personal use, it is essential to use multi-factor or a minimum of two-factor authentication. Spector IT can offer these policies as part of our Spector IT Protect Package.

Practice data encryption

When moving sensitive data to the cloud it is always advised to use encryption. There are many different methods in which to do such as password protection and zip files. Your chosen cloud service provider should give you details of the level of encryption they use in the service-level agreement (SLA).

If you want to learn more practical and useful information about Cloud Computing read our article What you Need to Know about Cloud Computing.

Spector IT provides managed IT and cloud security solutions from an ISO 27001 certified data centre. Our services include business protection, multi-layered data security and disaster recovery to ensure that your data is protected at all times and in all cases when using the cloud. If you have any questions about cloud service provision or Spector’s suite of services, call us today.