Data protection in the cloud: how secure is your data in the cloud?

Jun 5, 2024

Data protection in the cloud: how secure is your data in the cloud?
Find out everything you need to know about data protection in the cloud. How secure is your data with cloud server providers?

Data protection in the cloud: how secure is your data in the cloud?

Cloud computing is becoming increasingly popular, both in the private and corporate sectors. But how secure is your data in the cloud? In this article, you will find out what measures you can take to optimally protect your data with cloud server providers.

You need to know this:

  • Check certificates and certifications of cloud providers.
  • Pay attention to the encryption and anonymization of your data.
  • Choose providers with server locations in the EU.
  • Use backup options for data protection.
  • Implement monitoring protocols for the early detection of threats.

Important measures to protect data in the cloud

Certificates and certifications

Check whether the cloud provider has recognized certificates such as the BSI C5 certificate or ISO/IEC 27001. These certificates confirm that the data protection regulations are complied with.

Encryption and anonymization

Use encryption and anonymization options to increase the security of data in the cloud. This protects your data from unauthorized access.

Server location

Choose providers with server locations in Europe to ensure compliance with the GDPR. Providers such as TeamDrive offer GDPR-compliant solutions with true end-to-end encryption and server locations in Germany.

Backup options

Check the cloud provider's backup options to avoid data loss. Use alternative data backup methods in addition to cloud storage.

Monitoring protocols

Implement monitoring protocols to detect suspicious activities at an early stage. Use smart anti-malware software to monitor suspicious activities.

Data protection in cloud computing: handling sensitive data in the cloud

The advantages of cloud computing include location-independent access, cost efficiency and easy scalability. However, outsourcing sensitive data also entails security risks such as hacker attacks and inadequate protection during data transmission. You must therefore ensure that cloud providers comply with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and the German Federal Data Protection Act (BDSG).

Security features and practical tips

  • Certifications: Look out for certifications such as the BSI C5 certificate and ISO/IEC 27001.
  • Server locations within the EU: Providers such as TeamDrive offer GDPR-compliant solutions with genuine end-to-end encryption and server locations in Germany.
  • Backup: Use alternative data backup methods in addition to cloud storage.
  • Access rights: Implement granular access rights and only grant them when necessary.
  • Passwords: Use secure passwords and update them regularly.
  • Collaboration with the cloud provider: Work closely with your cloud provider and keep up to date with security updates.
  • Anti-virus protection: Use smart anti-malware software to monitor conspicuous activities.

Legally compliant in the cloud: your data on Dropbox, iCloud, Google Drive & Co

Cloud customers in Germany are subject to German data protection law if their cloud provider is based within the EU. However, data protection issues arise with non-European providers. Cloud computing includes various IT services such as online storage space, applications and infrastructure services. Data in the cloud is treated as order processing in accordance with the GDPR.

Types of cloud computing

Infrastructure-as-a-Service (IaaS)
Platform-as-a-Service (PaaS)
Software-as-a-Service (SaaS)

The GDPR applies to personal data within the EU. For secure cloud use, users should pay attention to security certificates, the server location and the terms of use. Data encryption is another important criterion.

Cloud providers and liability

Cloud providers are only liable for data loss or hacker attacks if negligence or intent can be proven. However, there are no German court rulings on such claims for damages.

Use of cloud services

Caution is advised when using cloud services such as Dropbox, Google Drive, iCloud and Microsoft OneDrive. These providers often reserve rights to the data in order to operate their services, which can lead to data protection problems. To be on the safe side, users should upload as little personal data as possible to the cloud.

Conclusion

Despite all the advantages from a technical perspective, caution is required when using cloud computing services from a legal perspective. Users should ensure that they comply with all data protection regulations and protect their data in the best possible way by choosing trustworthy, certified providers and taking additional security measures.

 

Photo source: pexels.com