How To Secure Data in the Cloud

Your data is your most valuable asset – and for many small businesses, cloud storage has quickly become the most efficient way to store it. But what can you do to ensure your data is safe and secure? These five data privacy tips will help you tackle the issues of cloud privacy.

1. Avoid Storing Sensitive Info

If you have the option, keep your sensitive information away from the cloud. If a shady actor gets ahold of your cloud credentials, they have easy access to all of your personal and customer information. Only keep files that you frequently access, and avoid storing documents containing passwords, social security numbers, credit card numbers, etc.

2. Use Strong Passwords

Did you know that 90% of all passwords can be cracked within seconds? Your password is the first line of defense when defending access to your company’s information. However, the best security in the world is useless if a malicious actor has access to your usernames and passwords. Aside from going for a strong and unique password, make sure to change it frequently and not repeat it across other online accounts. Secure passwords make it difficult for hackers to break into your data and lower the probability that your cloud will succumb to an unwelcome intrusion.

3. Consider an Encryption Service

One of the greatest safety measures for protecting cloud data is encryption. Encryption provides an additional layer of security before access to the data. Some cloud services provide local encryption and decryption of your files in addition to storage and backup. It means that the service takes care of both encrypting your files on your computer and storing them safely on the cloud.

4. Live by Multi-Factor Authentication

If you have the option, opt for multi-factor authentication (MFA) – this means anyone who signs into the account will need information in addition to the password. Common methods of authentication include answering a secret question, providing a unique PIN, or inputting a code that the cloud provider emails or texts to you. An MFA is also recommended to implement before downloading attachments and related actions.

Have Cloud Questions?

At Framework IT, we believe in the power of the cloud and want to educate businesses everywhere on the many advantages that come from transitioning to off-site solutions. For additional information and guidance, contact us today.