Cloud services have become the backbone of modern organisations.
They deliver scalability, flexibility, and anytime access — but they also introduce new security challenges.
Protecting data in the cloud requires the right technical controls and well-designed policies.
What Is Cloud Security?
Cloud security encompasses the policies, practices, and technologies used to protect data, applications, and infrastructure in cloud environments.
It is governed by the Shared Responsibility Model:
→ The provider secures the cloud infrastructure.
→ You are responsible for security in the cloud (configuration, configuration, access).
Major Cloud Security Risks
- Unauthorised access – stolen credentials, weak passwords, missing MFA.
- Data loss – accidental deletion, technical failures, or lack of backups.
- Malware – infections spread via shared accounts or third-party integrations.
- Misconfiguration – publicly exposed S3 buckets, open ports, missing network segmentation.
Most cloud breaches are caused by customer-side misconfiguration, not by the cloud provider itself.
How to Protect Data in the Cloud
- Encryption – encrypt data at rest and in transit.
- Multi-factor authentication (MFA/2FA) – enforce it on every account.
- Regular backups – maintain independent, immutable backups of cloud data.
- Least-privilege access (Zero Trust) – grant only the permissions that are strictly needed.
Choosing a Secure Cloud Provider
When selecting a provider (AWS, Azure, Google Cloud, etc.), verify:
- Compliance certifications – GDPR, ISO 27017, ISO 27018, SOC 2, etc.
- Transparent privacy & data-handling policies.
- Built-in security tools – detailed audit logs, DLP, IAM, threat detection.
Choose a vendor that provides clear compliance reports and strong native security capabilities.
Continuous Cloud Security Monitoring
Proactive monitoring is essential:
- Analyse cloud logs (AWS CloudTrail, Azure Monitor, Google Security Command Center).
- Use robust IAM controls and regular permission reviews.
- Set up real-time alerts for anomalies and suspicious activity.
Train Your Team on Cloud Safety
Even the best tools are useless without educated users.
Training should cover:
- secure file sharing,
- phishing recognition,
- proper response to security warnings,
- adherence to company cloud usage policies.
Summary
Cloud security is an ongoing process, not a one-time setup.
It demands continuous monitoring, policy updates, and user education.
With proper configuration, encryption, and access controls, the cloud becomes a powerful and secure ally rather than a liability.
Get in Touch
I help organisations design, audit, and harden cloud security postures on AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud — including encryption, IAM, DLP, backup strategies, and full compliance with ISO standards and GDPR.
Email: biuro@wichran.pl
Phone: +48 515 601 621
Author: Piotr Wichrań – Court-appointed IT forensic expert, IT/OT cybersecurity specialist, licensed private investigator
@Informatyka.Sledcza