Before the introduction of cloud services, the only way employees could get data to work on was to collect the files. Now, cloud services have made it easy for workers to access information from any part of the world.
Cloud storage possesses a lot of benefits which include remote work and reduced storage expenses. Nevertheless, when mishandled, a business can experience very grave consequences.
The Risk Associated with Cloud Storage
Since cloud services are always connected to the internet, there’s the risk of hacks. Hackers try to break into accounts and steal data they think is valuable. Sensitive information about a firm can go for high prices on dark web markets. It could also be used to blackmail the business owners.
Hackers use several techniques to reach cloud service privacy. In this article, you’ll see a list of tips you need to secure your firm’s cloud storage account.
Four Ways to Strengthen Cloud Storage Security
- Scrutinize Linked Apps and Accounts
Performing other security checks without scrutinizing linked apps is like leaving a human-sized hole in your fence. Linked apps, if breached, can lead to a loss of your cloud storage data. The same goes for linked accounts that have access to certain files on your cloud service.
You can check for connected apps in the ‘Settings’ section of your account. If apps you don’t actively use anymore are still linked, remove them.
Also, if you need to share files with temporary users, activate sharing deadlines. This will stop the user from accessing the data after a certain date.
- Use a VPN
A VPN’s job is to create encrypted internet connections so your activity can remain private. For example, imagine a case where a worker unknowingly connects to hacked public Wi-Fi. The hijacker would be able to spot the entirety of that employee’s activity, including the cloud storage’s login credentials.
If your employees use a VPN for security, they’d be protected even when they connect to public Wi-Fi. On a broader level, a VPN can allow traveling employees to connect to your cloud service even if the website is geo-blocked in the country traveled to.
- Switch on Two-Factor Authentication
Two-factor authentication mode is designed to stop a hacker’s access to an account if login credentials get stolen. Most cloud services offer two-factor authentication.
The required extra authentication is usually in the form of a numbered code. You can activate this mode in the security part of your cloud account settings.
- Remove Old Devices
Cloud services save familiar devices so you don’t have to go through stringent security checks each time you log in. However, if your device has been lost or stolen, the criminal could access your cloud storage account.
You need to remove previous devices on your cloud account. For Google Drive users, accounts can be removed from the Google account. Dropbox users can remove devices in ‘Security’ under ‘Settings’. There’ll be a ‘Devices’ tab that can be clicked on to get the complete list of computers, tablets, and smartphones linked to the account.
Conclusion
A lot of firms now use cloud services and are exposed to various internet threats. To protect your business from this threat, you can activate multi-factor authentication, get a VPN, or remove outdated connected apps.
Barry Lachey is a Professional Editor at Zobuz. Previously He has also worked for Moxly Sports and Network Resources “Joe Joe.” He is a graduate of the Kings College at the University of Thames Valley London. You can reach Barry via email or by phone.
