The need for cloud service providers expands every day as remote working and cloud-based applications drive the demand for subscription cloud services. Many organizations are now utilizing multiple cloud services in an attempt to spread the risk across vendors and maintain security in today’s hazardous cybersecurity environment. This article addresses the needs and concerns involved with maintaining relationships with multiple cloud service providers.
Avoid Storing Data Keys in a Single Location
Data keys falling into the hands of a cybercriminal is one of the biggest threats to IT infrastructure security for companies using cloud services. It is crucial to store data keys separately from the data. Businesses need to maintain control of the data keys and not leave it in the hands of cloud service providers (CSPs). Data keys falling into the hands of these criminal organizations will cause severe damage to data, applications and business reputation.
Use SSO to Improve Access Control
Businesses need to do a better job of controlling access to critical databases and applications. Too many IT departments allow employees to use inadequate password protection to keep unauthorized users away from data and IT infrastructure. Aaron Zander, Head of IT at HackerOne, recently wrote in CSO Online, “IT and security are often consulted too late in the tool selection process, which usually means choices have already been made, money has been spent, and the tools procured don’t use SSO. The power of single sign-on is based on the fact that the more tools that use it, the stronger you are,” Zander explains.
Confidential Computing Methodology Secures Data
Data is traditionally protected in two states: while at rest and when in transit. Confidential computing methodology protects data when it is most vulnerable — while processing. The idea is to encrypt data and keep it separate while in use. Machine language technology is used to separate sensitive data from other code while being processed. Confidential computing uses hardware to create a “Trusted Engineering Environment” (TEE). The data stored inside is only visible to those with an authorized code.
Work with a Trusted Advisor
Many businesses put their IT security and cloud services in the hands of a single IT support person or a small internal team. Often, the team is unable to stay current with cybersecurity updates and rapidly-changing best practices. Depending on a small group of internal individuals can be detrimental to the firm’s security efforts if the IT team is underfunded and short-staffed. One effective way to improve data security is to work with a trusted managed service provider (MSPs) with cybersecurity and cloud computing experience.
MSPs can hire and utilize cybersecurity experts with dozens of years of experience. These advisors work hard to stay current with the newest technologies and cybersecurity practices. Cloud Services For MSPs brings over 35 years of experience providing expert cloud services for businesses and organizations of all sizes. We are a true partner for everything IT. Visit cloudservicesformsps.com or call (866) 883-8836 to speak with one of our cloud services or cybersecurity experts.