How Can Businesses Overcome Cloud Security Challenges?

The rapid global shift to cloud computing continues to gather momentum, and with it, a sharp increase in both the sophistication and frequency of attacks against cloud infrastructure.

Adopting cloud security, especially for cloud-native solutions, provides key benefits such as reducing costs, streamlining management, improving visibility, and delivering integrated protection for users no matter where they are. But what makes cloud security so essential, and where should businesses direct their attention?

Cloud adoption in the UK

The UK now boasts over 5.5 Million businesses that rely on cloud computing, with British data centres responsible for storing over $135 Billion worth of data annually. Both of these numbers are increasing year on year, and with cloud infrastructure becoming so widely adopted - ensuring the correct level of cloud computing data security is in place is important.

Why is cloud computing data security important?

As more businesses rely on cloud solutions, the risks to data security are becoming harder to ignore. From insecure APIs to account breaches, cloud environments face a variety of threats that need attention. Cloud security is essential for protecting sensitive information like customer data and intellectual property, keeping it safe from cyberattacks and accidental leaks. Without the right safeguards, companies risk losing money, damaging their reputation, and even facing fines. The fallout from poor cloud security can be massive, which is why it should be a priority for businesses of all sizes.

Recent data breaches have shown just how much damage a lack of proper cloud security can cause. Beyond the financial losses, they undermine trust with customers and investors alike. By sticking to cloud security best practices, businesses can protect what matters most and maintain their credibility.

How does cloud computing data security work?

Cloud security is a combination of policies, security tools, and technologies designed to safeguard data, applications, and infrastructure. Techniques like encryption, multi-factor authentication (MFA), and firewalls are used to prevent unauthorised access. A layered security approach is essential, covering everything from data encryption to network protection and continuous vulnerability monitoring.

Cloud providers offer valuable security tools, but businesses still bear responsibility for securing their data and applications. While the provider handles the physical infrastructure, it’s up to you to manage user access, encrypt data, and comply with regulations.

A strong security strategy includes constant monitoring and threat detection, with many companies using AI and machine learning to spot vulnerabilities and respond quickly before they escalate.

What are the most common cloud security risks and challenges?

While cloud computing offers numerous benefits, it also presents several challenges for businesses, including:

• Data breaches: Storing sensitive information in the cloud makes it a target for cyberattacks. A breach can expose critical data, such as customer details, financial records, and proprietary information.
• Compliance challenges: Meeting industry regulations like GDPR or HIPAA can be complex, especially when managing data across multiple regions and legal frameworks.
• Misconfigurations: Poorly configured cloud services, such as weak access controls or improper network setups, can leave crucial data exposed and vulnerable to attacks.
• Insider threats: Malicious actions by employees or contractors can compromise sensitive data. These threats are particularly dangerous as they can bypass external security measures.

Key considerations for securing cloud environments

As more businesses move to the cloud, keeping cloud environments secure is more important than ever. There are a few key things to consider when it comes to protecting cloud data and applications. Let’s take a look at some of the main factors that play a role in cloud security.

Cloud security risks

Cloud security risks include threats like data breaches, unauthorised access, and data loss, which can affect the confidentiality and availability of cloud data. These risks come from insider threats, cyberattacks, and misconfigurations. While top providers like AWS, Azure, and GCP offer security tools, customers must actively manage their environments. Regular audits, encryption, and access controls are key to keeping cloud data secure.

Identity and Access Management (IAM)

IAM is fundamental for cloud security, managing who can access cloud resources and what they can do with them. By applying the principle of least privilege, it limits access to only authorised users, reducing the risk of breaches. Tools like role-based access control (RBAC) andmulti-factor authentication (MFA) help control access, ensuring sensitive data stays protected.

Evolving threat landscape

Cloud security must adapt as new threats emerge. Cybercriminals are always finding new ways to exploit vulnerabilities, and as businesses move to hybrid or multi-cloud environments, security becomes more complex. Attacks like ransomware and phishing are on the rise, so businesses need to invest in real-time threat detection and maintain proactive security measures to stay protected.

Notable cloud security incidents

Cloud security incidents continue to demonstrate how vulnerable organisations can be when configurations or safeguards fall short. Here’s a look at three incidents that serve as essential lessons for businesses relying on the cloud.

1. Snowflake customer data breach (Spring 2024)

In the spring of 2024, several Snowflake customers, including high-profile companies like Ticketmaster, LendingTree, Neiman Marcus, and Santander, suffered data breaches. Cybercriminals accessed and exfiltrated sensitive datasets due to misconfigurations in Snowflake's cloud infrastructure. This incident highlighted the critical importance of securing cloud environments and ensuring proper configurations to prevent unauthorised access.

2. AT&T data breach (April 2024)

In April 2024, AT&T disclosed a significant data breach where hackers accessed and copied call logs stored on a third-party cloud platform. The breach affected nearly all AT&T wireless customers, exposing metadata from calls and texts. This incident underscored the vulnerabilities associated with third-party cloud services and the necessity for stringent security measures.

3. Chinese hackers infiltrate U.S. Treasury (December 2024)

In December 2024, Chinese state-backed hackers infiltrated the U.S. Treasury Department's workstations through a cloud service breach. The attackers accessed unclassified documents by targeting a third-party security system, BeyondTrust. This incident emphasised the risks posed by sophisticated nation-state actors exploiting vulnerabilities in cloud services.

Cloud security best practices

Here are a few simple yet effective steps you can take to boost your cloud security and address these challenges:

• Encryption: Always encrypt sensitive data, whether it's stored or in transit. This keeps it safe from prying eyes, even if intercepted.
• Access control: Implement MFA and role-based access to control who can view or modify your systems and data. Limiting access reduces internal risks.
• Regular audits: Perform routine security audits to spot vulnerabilities and stay compliant with regulations. It also ensures your cloud setup follows the latest security standards.
• Employee training: Keep your team in the loop on security threats and best practices. Well-informed staff can help prevent costly mistakes like falling for phishing attacks.
• Backup and recovery plans: Make sure you’ve got a reliable backup and recovery plan. If something goes wrong, you’ll be able to bounce back quickly with minimal data loss.

How can penetration testing protect your cloud computing data security?

Penetration testing helps protect your cloud computing data security by identifying vulnerabilities before attackers can exploit them. It’s like hiring a team of ethical hackers to test your cloud infrastructure, apps, and settings, highlighting any weak spots that could put your sensitive data at risk. At OnSecurity, we take a thorough approach to cloud security penetration testing, focusing on areas like misconfigurations and unprotected data access points. By fixing these issues early, you can tighten up your security, stay compliant with regulations, and prevent costly data breaches or reputational damage. It’s all about staying one step ahead of potential threats.

Ready to strengthen your cloud security? OnSecurity’s cloud penetration testing service helps identify vulnerabilities before they become a problem. Our expert team will assess your cloud infrastructure, pinpoint risks, and provide actionable insights to protect your data. Get a free instant quote today to safeguard your business with proactive security measures.