Breaking the Myths: The Truth Behind Cloud Security Risks

Although cloud adoption is on the rise, there are still many myths about how secure the technology really is. In fact, according to a study of 250 global CIOs, 30 percent marked cloud security risk as the thing that they are most worried about.

There are certainly some considerations to explore in any cloud infrastructure—whether it is a single, private cloud or a hybrid, multi-cloud environment—but it is important to debunk the myths, properly weigh the risks, and flesh out the benefits to make sure you have all the right information to make the best decision for your organization.

Don’t know where to start? That’s where this article comes in; we’re here to help you sort facts from fiction so you know the true story behind cloud security risks.

4 Myths Debunked: Cloud Security Risks

Let’s dive into the most common myths and find out what the real cloud security risks are.

Myth #1: Cloud Security Risks Are Too Risky

One of the most commonly heard myths surrounding cloud security risk is that it is too hard to overcome compared to on-premise. Similarly, there is a fear that data cannot be controlled once it is in the cloud or that your data can be viewed by anyone. The result is that companies can decide to not explore the cloud as a business enabler. Or, if they do decide to use the cloud, they only migrate non-mission-critical data and applications.

It’s important to remember that the “cloud” is a network just like your own; it just happens to be somewhere else and managed by another team. The same types of hardware, software, security features, staff, and access controls apply. However, the level of focus, the amount of resources, and the dedication that a provider has to ensure the effective, secure, and efficient management of the cloud service could be more than what your on-premise solution can provide.

Myth #2: The Cloud is Less Secure Than On-Premise

The cloud can be a hard concept to fully understand, which leads to people perceiving the cloud as less secure. According to Gartner, very few data breaches have occurred in the cloud, and the ones that do, the majority are not the cloud provider’s fault. Instead, most breaches continue to involve on-premise data centers.

Myth #3: Cloud Storage Makes Cybersecurity Compliance Challenging

Cybersecurity compliance is more difficult when data is stored in the cloud for many organizations, maintaining compliance with regulations is not negotiable. If the industry stores any client data (such as finance, healthcare, etc), the required regulations can be extensive. 

The myth is that cloud providers can’t handle extensive compliance requirements – however, it’s the complete opposite. 

Working with a cloud provider can actually make meeting and maintaining compliance with regulatory standards easier. Many cloud providers, like FNTS, work with regulatory providers to pre-certify their cloud data centers, infrastructure, policies, and staff with the necessary levels of security, such as PCI and HIPAA.   

Additionally, cloud providers offer strong perimeter defenses, active intrusion detection systems (IDS), and other security features, such as encryption and logging, to meet the necessary standards. And, in the event of a standard change, cloud providers can often pivot and modify configurations to match the requirement on your behalf. 

FNTS operates two highly secure data centers in Lisle, IL, and Omaha, NE. Each facility is equipped with advanced physical and digital security measures, including 24/7 on-site guards, biometric access controls, and extensive surveillance systems, ensuring a compliant and secure environment for data storage. Additionally, cloud providers offer robust defenses like intrusion detection systems, encryption, and logging to help meet compliance standards. Should regulatory standards change, FNTS can adjust configurations to ensure you stay compliant seamlessly.

Myth #4: Cloud Providers Take On All Security Responsibility

Although moving your applications, workloads, management, data, and other services to a cloud service provider can greatly reduce your operational costs and capital investment in IT, that does not mean you are off the hook when it comes to security.

Your relationship with the cloud service provider should include continuous evaluations of the data that is being hosted, the types of access levels authorized, and the prevention techniques in place – since it is your data.

Minimize Cloud Security Risks with a Cloud Service Provider 

Once you are able to look past the myths surrounding cloud security risks, you can get a clearer view of how using the cloud can improve how your organization operates.

Switching to the cloud requires careful planning and support, which is why partnering with an experienced cloud service provider like FNTS can make all the difference. FNTS specializes in guiding organizations through every stage of their cloud journey—from initial planning to full deployment. 

Our team provides tailored support to address your unique security needs, ensuring a smooth, secure, and efficient transition. With FNTS, you gain a reliable partner dedicated to helping you leverage the full potential of the cloud.