Decoding the Role of Cloud Computing in Enhancing Cyber Security

Article By Sachin Nigam, CTO & Co-Founder of Goavega Software India

In the fast evolving world powered by accelerated digital adoption, cloud computing is emerging as a game changer and major enabler, across areas. From facilitating video conferencing for hybrid workplaces and empowering smart connected devices to helping accelerated growth of AI and ML through data driven insights, Cloud Computing has come a very long way from being just a virtual data storage platform. With increasing significance of Data, Cloud computing too is fast gaining importance among both, consumers as well as software and product development companies. And while these exciting new innovations powered by Cloud continue to disrupt various sectors across the globe, it is the silent yet powerful emergence of cloud as a potential enabler to fight of phishing and cyber crimes in the digital world.

It is ironic to note here that data security remained one of the chief concerns for businesses who hesitated the shift to cloud a few years ago. And now the same technology solution is helping to not just combat cyber crime but to also become a potential platform that can empower other technologies like AI and ML to detect and prevent cyber crimes. Some key aspects about the role of cloud computing in combating cyber crimes, can be understood, as below:

1. Data Backup: Cloud offers options to back up valuable data, so in case of a potential cyber attack, hacked servers or a physical harm to devices, the data remains secure and can be easily retrieved. Leveraging SaaS or third part cloud service providers helps in easier data management and data recovery, as it is managed by experts in the field. This also ensures enhanced protection from cyber attacks like malwares and ransomware, as data protection is multi-fold and not restricted to the physical device.

2. Stringent authorisation: With increased application of Cloud across BFSI, Ecommerce and Fintech, among other sectors, the security parameters for cloud has become more stringent. When setting up a cloud network, most SaaS and Cloud computing service providers now work with two/ three step or Multi-factor authentication process. In fact, MFA has become one of the cheapest yet most effective security controls to keep would-be hackers from accessing cloud applications. Further, with regular vulnerability checks, encrypted data, customised, selective access features, etc. all have ensured that cloud computing becomes a secure and overall effective experience.

3. AI And ML for cyber security: With a strong Cloud network, it is easier to implement data driven insights by leveraging AI and ML technologies. These help in not only faster identification of potential cyber crimes or threats, it also helps drive predictive analysis and inspect the overall security health of the network. This helps drive preparedness and ensure faster remedial measures, in the face of a cyber attack.

4. Anti-Phishing and Cyber Security Hygiene Training: Most Hackers and cyber criminals tend to steal employees' login credentials through social engineering techniques such as phishing, spoofing websites, and social media spying. This is because most employees when using the cloud network on or off premise devices, are not aware about basic security procedures like safe log outs, clearing cache, use of public WiFi and effectively using cloud in a safe and secure manner. Providing adequate and timely training on basics of cyber security hygiene can go a long way in educating employees and users while also ensure safety of the entire network.

Lately, apart from the above, brands and businesses seeking to ensure a safer cloud computing experience, need to also ensure that they work with trusted industry experts, have a centralised visibility of their network with regular health checks and vulnerability tests, and are regularly providing cyber security best practices training not only employees but also other stakeholders that have access to cloud network.